Giant bees have appeared across Wellington as a new public art trail transforms streets, parks and landmarks across the capital into an outdoor gallery.
Mills Albert Bee in the City opened on 14 September, with 30 giant bee sculptures and another 20 community-created bees forming a trail across Wellington until 8 November.
The free trail stretches from Wellington Airport through Oriental Parade, the waterfront and central city, and up to the Wellington Botanic Garden.
Each of the giant bees has been individually designed by a New Zealand artist, while schools and community groups have decorated the smaller sculptures.
More than 130 artists registered their interest in taking part before the final designs were selected.
Among the sculptures is The Birds and the Bees by Vicky Peacock on Oriental Parade, featuring a colourful design incorporating native flora and wildlife.
At Waitangi Park, Pollinating Pōneke by Lizzie Pannell can be found near the Wellington sign, while Hive Culture by Lucia Laubuscher is positioned at the top of the Wellington Cable Car.
Other sculptures have been installed at Wellington Railway Station, Tākina, Te Matapihi Central Library, Wellington Museum, Frank Kitts Park, Post Office Square, Te Ngākau Civic Square and Hnry Stadium.
Visitors can follow the trail using a printed map or the Bee in the City app.
Each sculpture has a four-digit code which can be entered into the app, allowing people to collect the bees they find and unlock rewards as they move around the trail.
A trail hub has also been established at The Enormous Crocodile & Shake Bar near Chaffers Marina, where printed maps are available.
The project is raising money for Life Flight Trust, which operates Wellington’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter and air ambulance planes.
Life Flight says its aircraft have transported more than 40,000 people since the service began in 1975, with about 1,700 people now flown each year.
The service operates around the clock and uses six aircraft to transport patients who need urgent medical care.
The giant bees will remain around Wellington until 8 November before being brought together and auctioned on 26 November.
All 30 giant sculptures will be sold, with proceeds supporting Life Flight’s aeromedical services.
