Pearson & Associates

Wharenga - First Wave

WHARENGA - FIRST WAVE SURF EXHIBITION

KAIKOURA MUSEUM

The distinctive geography of the ocean bed along its coastline means Kaikōura is one of the most consistent and enticing surf regions in New Zealand. The waves have been attracting surfers since the 1960’s. These surfing adventurers helped shape, and continue to influence, the social fabric, culture and economic life in Kaikōura. Until this exhibition their stories were mostly untold and their contribution to the local community largely unknown.

Wharenga – First Wave, is a fun, interactive and multimedia exploration of the history and geological forces that are connected with surfing in Kaikōura. Wharenga – First Wave brings to light the surfing culture, science and matauranga Maori, together with the interconnection between these elements.

Led by Pearson & Associates in association with Canyon Creative, this highly collaborative exhibition involves content contributions from the local and wider surfing community, oral and surfing historians, and professional surf photographers. There is also significant content from GNS and NIWA, who have created 3D models and wave simulations of local surf breaks.