Suspended across the airbridge and overlooking the harbour, Matariki by Haser is made up of nine striking wheku — stylised, mask-like forms — each one representing one of the stars within the Matariki constellation. Each star holds a specific meaning, from remembrance to well-being, from our environment to our aspirations, and Haser honours these values through bold visual storytelling.

Utilising a mix of transparent and solid decals, the installation comes alive as sunlight filters through it, casting vivid shadows and colours onto the space below. The placement of the wheku invites viewers to imagine the Matariki cluster as it would appear rising above the Waitematā — a celestial reminder of connection between land, sky, and people.

A leading figure in Aotearoa’s street art and graffiti scene, Kairau ‘Haser’ Bradley (Ngāpuhi) has spent over two decades pushing boundaries — both in the urban landscape and within the studio. Born and raised in West Auckland, Haser’s practice spans the globe, with works exhibited across North America, Asia, Europe and beyond. After ten years working in the design world, he has returned to a full-time art practice grounded in identity, community, and visual rhythm.

Haser’s work reflects his ongoing exploration of the alphabet and graffiti’s visual language — reinterpreted through bold, saturated colour and post-graffiti narratives. This latest work for Matariki, while deeply rooted in cultural heritage, also carries his signature energy and movement. It’s a tribute to those who came before, a celebration of those around us, and a hopeful offering for the future.

As Haser puts it:
"Matariki for me is about community... a reminder that people’s presence around us is not forever, nor promised. Wherever I go in this world, it is a humble feeling to know it is not alone."

E hara taku toa i te toa takitahi, he toa takitini.
My strength is not as an individual, but as a collective.