The man who oversaw the installation of artworks at the Kahungunu Sports Park for Te Kahu o Te Amorangi Te Matatini 2017 has declared himself happy with the results and says those who created the works have more than met the brief.

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa Heretaunga arts kaiako and highly regarded artist Sandy Adsett oversaw the installation of the stunning mahau at the entrance to Te Matatini, along with several carvings around the venue, kowhaiwhai panels and sails used throughout the venue.

Most of the works were completed by tauira or graduates and Sandy says he’s proud of the way they worked together to get the job done.

“The most satisfying thing about it is that they made it in time,” he says.

“I didn’t want anyone who worked so hard to miss out on having their work on show. They really worked hard and the best thing was that at the end everyone was still smiling.”

Sandy wanted the artists to create uniquely Kahungunu works and says that’s been achieved, with some artists putting in extra effort to ensure their work was up to scratch.

“I had to be happy that everything that went up is good and I was really impressed with some of the ones who really pushed themselves. I think they surprised even themselves. They worked well as a team and overachieved in terms of hitting the brief,” he says.

Many of the works will be able to be offered for sale at the completion of the festival.

“They offered something positive and took a long term view so the works have still got value. Everyone appreciates their work and the long hours they put in to achieve this.”