Constructed from eight-ton of andesite rock sourced from Mt Ruapehu, and totara from the Whanganui catchment, this sculpture represents the mountain, Whanganui River and water-borne travel through its natural, locally sourced materials.
In 2010, artists Kerry McDonnell, Max Cody and Mikel Durel Browne, manoeuvred and delicately cut the volcanic rock into three sections at Raetihi before it was transported to Whanganui.
The shape of the two standing rocks represent Mt Ruapehu, with the gap between representing the awa (river), and the wooden portion representing a waka (canoe). In this way, From the Mountains to the Sea pays respect to the history of occupation and use of the Whanganui River.
The sculpture was a finalist in the inaugural Sculpture Wanganui competition, held that same year, and was gifted to the people of Whanganui through the generous support of the Gordon and Smith families.
From Mountain to the Sea is also dedicated in remembrance of William Hikitangaarangi Smith, (Badge no. 16 in the Māori Wardens) and the work that set the foundations here for the Māori Wardens.
Aptly located by the river, the sculpture invites people to take a seat and soak up the excellent views.