Sign to be unveiled at Scott Base

A pouwhenua, a carved Scott Base sign and tukutuku panels created by Ngai Tahu artists, will be unveiled at Scott Base on Sunday.

Prime Minister John Key, Ngai Tahu Kaiwhakahaere Ta Sir Mark Solomon and master weaver Ranui Ngarimu, will take part in the special ceremony.

Sir Mark said it was an honour to be tasked with creating a cultural marker at Antarctica, on behalf of all Maori.

"Maori have a long history of exploration akin to those who come to Antarctica," he said.

"It has been our privilege to create a pouwhenua that depicts this characteristic we share, with Maori and with those who journey to Antarctica."

Master carver Fayne Robinson has designed and carved the 2-metre tall pouwhenua.

It personifies exploration, adventure and discovery, characteristics of all people, past and present who travel to Antarctica.

The head of the pouwhenua looks straight at the sky as a symbol of celestial navigation.

It is decorated with stars, waves, water and animals, which depict nature and represent the importance of the environment.

Totara used for the head of the pouwhenua has come from the West Coast of the South Island and was cut from the same piece of timber used to make the main support beam of the Ngati Waewae Tuhuru Wharenui, which is also located on the West Coast. Two carved panels and a Scott Base sign will also be taken to Antarctica.

The panels will be installed in the recreation room at Scott Base and the sign will be placed at the entrance of the base.

Each tukutuku panel features traditional designs to tell their stories.

The memorial panel, He Maumahara, show crosses or stars shining in the night sky, acknowledging those who have been to Antarctica and passed on.

The second panel, He Manukura, speaks of leadership or those who have inspired others.

It tells the story of the on-going journey of learning and portrays the story of people who continue to research in Antarctica.

Geographically, Ngai Tahu is the closest iwi to Antarctica.