About the Talking Poles

Tokoroa's tall sculptures were first suggested by landscape designer Colleen Priest, as part of concept designs for the Central Business District upgrade for Tokoroa in 1996. At a public meeting in 1997 there was very positive support for the idea of a collection of sculptured poles representing Tokoroa's many different cultures, clubs and organisations.

Vision

Creation of a unique world icon that inspires and generates community pride, while developing a tourist attraction leading to a sustainable niche industry based on tall sculptures.

History

Tokoroa's tall sculptures were first suggested by landscape designer Colleen Priest, as part of concept designs for the Central Business District upgrade for Tokoroa in 1996. At a public meeting in 1997 there was very positive support for the idea of a collection of sculptured poles representing Tokoroa's many different cultures, clubs and organisations.

Achievements

The project has produced 46 Talking Poles in a variety of themes, styles and materials and there are more Poles in the making. The sculptures can be seen mainly around the CBD of Tokoroa and form a trail for tourists to follow. The sculptures have helped to build pride in the town, and are now an established tourist attraction. Many local businesses contributed funds and in-kind support.

The inaugural Pole Art of the World Symposium in March 2004 produced eight new sculptures in native and exotic timbers by a mix of local, New Zealand and international sculptors. The event attracted around 5,000 people to the site over three weeks, revitalizing the Talking Poles project and proving the interest and commitment of the community to its future. From that time during each symposium more beautiful sculptures in timber, stone, steel and concrete have been created.

Key Strategies

10-year objectives

• develop the project into an internationally recognized attraction
• develop a plan to offer a range of local and international business and training opportunities around the Talking Poles theme
• continue to develop the number of sculptures - 60+ to achieve critical mass

Management Structure

The Talking Poles have been established over the years by a Trust of hardworking volunteers. In 2015 the considerable efforts of the Trust were recognised by Council and by agreement with Trust members the Talking Poles project has been brought back in house to the South Waikato District Council.