Stainless Steel Sculpture New Zealand Project – Custom Corten Steel Sculpture Honoring the Waitaha People
Project Overview
Project Name: Honoring Waitaha People corten steel sculpture project in New Zealand
Project Location: New Zealand
Project Time: 2024.06-2024.02
Project Background:
Our client from New Zealand owns a vast 5,500-hectare property and envisioned a meaningful way to honor the Waitaha people—the first indigenous inhabitants of the land. On his property, ancient rock art drawings still remain, etched into stone by generations past. He hoped to transform these symbols into large-scale sculptures, preserving their cultural significance through art.
“The sculptures we are planning are to be outdoors, on a large property I own—5500 Ha.
We would like to tell the story of the Waitaha people, the first indigenous people of New Zealand. On our property, we have very old rock art drawings, and we would like to reproduce these drawings in large sculpture form.”
This message and the attached reference images marked the beginning of a truly special collaboration.
Creative Design Collaboration
Our design team carefully studied the client’s references and began developing initial concepts. The process was highly collaborative—our designers provided multiple proposals, and the client made modifications on his end as well.
Through several rounds of revision and refinement, we eventually finalized a unique design that captured the spirit of the original rock art while remaining structurally sound for large outdoor installation.
This back-and-forth communication lasted for about six months, during which we built not only a sculpture but a strong partnership based on mutual respect and shared vision.
YouFine Designed the Prototype of the Sculpture Based on the Client’s Initial Concept Inspiration.
The Client Makes Hand-Drawn Modifications on the Preliminary Concept Drawing
YouFine Make the 3D Model
The Finalized Design
Once the design was finalized, our sculptors began building the full-scale model. During this phase, the client arranged for a trusted Chinese friend to visit our factory for a site inspection.
A key technical challenge emerged during production: the client wanted to include wooden elements inside the sculpture, supported by steel I-beams. This requirement added complexity to the internal structure. Our engineering team ran multiple rounds of calculations and stress tests, working closely with our experienced metalworkers to ensure that the steel frame would safely support both the sculpture and the internal wooden parts—without affecting the exterior aesthetics. In the end, we delivered a structurally sound and visually faithful solution that fully satisfied the client’s expectations.
Production and Engineering Process
In-Factory Test Installation and Quality Inspection
Before shipping the sculpture, we conducted a full installation test at our factory. This allowed the client’s representative to verify every detail in person—from the surface finish and structural integrity to the alignment of each piece.
This stage ensured that:
All components fit perfectly
Internal steel and wooden elements were correctly integrated
Final surface treatments met the agreed standards
By completing a full dry-run installation, we eliminated potential issues and guaranteed a smooth on-site assembly in New Zealand.
Final Installation and Client Feedback
After production and testing, the sculpture was carefully packaged and shipped overseas. Upon installation on the client’s property, everything came together seamlessly.
The client shared his sincere appreciation:
“It’s exactly what I imagined. Thank you for making my vision a reality.”
Feedback like this is the greatest reward for our team. It’s not just about completing a sculpture—it’s about honoring a story, solving complex problems, and delivering art that matters.
Easily Acquire Sculpture Information
How to Obtain a Quotation
At YouFine, we transform complexity into simplicity! Get started today by following these 3 easy steps!
Specify Your Requirements
Kindly provide us with comprehensive details about your requirements. Sharing drawings, reference images, and your creative ideas helps us better understand your needs.
Receive Solutions and Quotation
Based on your specifications and provided materials, we will craft the best solutions. A detailed quotation will be delivered to you within 24 hours.