Haka Peep Show

Mayor Dave Cull has repeated his support for the Haka Peep Show and the pleasure it has generated around the city.

The Council “was pleased to be able to support Ngai Tahu’s contribution to Dunedin’s RWC2011 celebrations” said Mayor Cull.

“I have been impressed that they (Ngai Tahu) wanted to challenge us by pushing conventional boundaries and I’m delighted at the pleasure their gift has brought to both residents and visitors to Dunedin during this time of celebration.

“My observations suggest the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and I’m grateful to Ngai Tahu for offering us the opportunity to share in this thought-provoking art work.”

Mayor Cull, commenting on questions raised about ownership and the return on Council’s investment, noted that it was not usual for the Council to look for a return on its marketing investment which, traditionally, was expected to raise the city’s profile and prompt people to visit our city. In this case the city and, indeed, the region would benefit from being able to view the work well after the Rugby World Cup had finished.

Rachael Rakena’s 5 metre 3D video installation considers the sexualisation and commercial exploitation of Maori sportsmen.

DCC funding came from existing marketing budgets set aside for RWC2011 promotion.