Moai are monolithic sculptures carved by the Rapa Nui people indigenous to an island of the same name (also known as Easter Island). The 3.2-ton moai, gifted by Chile in 2004, symbolizes the friendship between Chile and New Zealand. It also celebrates the connection between the Rapa Nui and New Zealand’s Maori. Located on the south Wellington coast, in Lyall Bay, this moai stands alone, gazing out to sea. The moai primarily serve as living faces representing deified ancestors (aringa ora ata tepuna). New Zealand shares one of its enduring and…
