What happens when you mix whakapapa, art, and low-carbon design? You get Maruata Rikoriko.
Critical. Cleanstone, made from 100% recycled plastic, now stands proudly in the heart of Viaduct Harbour for Matariki — thanks to the creative leadership of Amy Hawke and Graham Tipene.
I sat down with Graham in this first of a series of interviews unpacking how is whakapapa shapes his art and the story he behind the 2 carved pou.
Raised in Ōrākei, Graham was the kid who drew instead of kicked a ball. Guided by his mum and grounded in his whakapapa to Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Manu, and Ngāti Haua, he carved out a future in Māori design, weaving, and moko.
Now, his work shapes public spaces. To me this project is a signal:
1. That Māori design is both the 'sizzle' and the heart of Aotearoa's cities.
2. That public works can be circular as respect our history.
3. That low-carbon materials belong in the most visible parts of our cities.
And the best part? These Cleanstone panels were made from ocean plastics and soft plastic packaging. That’s material reuse on full display.
If you are a designer looking to create meaningful impact and tell a great story, consider:
Reducing waste in public or commercial projects
Work with recycled, carbon-saving materials
Honour local narratives through design
This should be our blueprint.
If public art could reflect the past and build the future at once — what stories would your materials tell?
Watch this clip with Graham Tipene.
And find out more on criticaldesign.nz