At the heart of the installation is a collection of colourful, light-reflective whetū (stars), inspired by the nine stars that make up the Matariki constellation. Through contemporary design and visual storytelling, Haser celebrates the unique significance of each whetū and the values they represent.

For Māori, each star within the Matariki cluster carries its own meaning — from remembrance and wellbeing to environmental connections, food sources and aspirations for the future. Through this installation, Haser explores these themes, creating a visual reflection on renewal, connection and the beginning of the Māori New Year.

Suspended throughout the airbridge overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, the placement of the whetū encourages visitors to imagine the Matariki constellation rising above the Auckland skyline. Utilising a mix of transparent and solid decals, the installation comes alive as winter sunlight shines through the artwork, casting colour, movement and light throughout the space below.

The result is a vibrant and immersive experience that celebrates the connection between land, sky and people, while encouraging visitors to reflect on the values and traditions of Matariki.

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. While deeply rooted in cultural storytelling, his work carries a distinctive sense of energy and movement, creating contemporary interpretations that connect heritage with the present day.

This latest installation for Commercial Bay celebrates the values of Matariki while encouraging reflection on those who came before us, appreciation for those around us, and hope 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.