In Monday’s post, I mentioned that there is currently a sculpture trail, Bee in the City, happening in Wellington. As I had to work on Wednesday, my usual day off, I not only took Thursday off in lieu, but also Friday, so have had time for more bee spotting.
I had to fly up to Auckland for a work day trip on Wednesday, so first up is the one at the airport, which I think is going to be my favourite. I just love the aviation spectacles. He is a well-travelled bee who collects postage stamps of the places he visits.
Next up are a gold one – Bee in the Detail (Pī i te Iti) – found outside Moore Wilson. It is actually layered with native botanicals: the bee becomes a quiet taonga, symbolising nourishment, reciprocity, and survival, inviting us to slow down, look closely, and recognise the beauty and value held within the smallest forms. The other one below is on the corner of Courtney Place and Taranaki Street called BE like a BEE, inspired by the wisdom of the honeybee.
Then there was the Masked Flyer near the Bucket Fountain on Cuba Street, which represents a native New Zealand bee. The one on the right is called All That’s Gold and Glitters on Lombard Street is – and I love this – inspired by the idea that beauty can be found in everyday moments the design combines the love of florals, nature and a good cup of tea. Sounds perfect to me!
Finally for the moment, the Blue Mānuka Pattern on the corner of Cuba Street and Manners Street. Clearly inspired by Willow Pattern, this about what is local and what has travelled. It focuses on Mānuka blossoms, and I love the Wellington details such as the Beehive (as the Parliament building is called) and the bucket fountain on Cuba Street (which must have been somewhere on my blog at some time).
That is ten bees found so far and there are fifty in total. Let’s see how many I can pick up.
Thistles and Kiwis is a Wellington, New Zealand based blog written by Barbara, who likes cats, summer and good food. Thistles and Kiwis can be found on Facebook and Instagram @thistlesandkiwis
