sea span

Taranaki district is filled with scenic walkways. I found out about the giant cheese and the giant surfboard too late. 

But I did spend the afternoon near Len Lye's magical Wind Wand, constructed nearly 20 years after his death in time for the end of the 20th century. The wand, which is lit at night, sways to the breeze. Wherever you go in town you can see it. 

3 km south is the brilliant Te Rewa Rewa bridge which evokes the wind and the skeleton of a whale. 

The bridge opened 5 years ago on the seaside walkway. Nearby is a traditional burial ground. 

I took advantage of a clearing to catch the sunset. 

That's Taranaki you see in the distance. 

It reminds me of Santiago Calatrava's marvelous Sundial Bridge in Redding. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundial_Bridge_at_Turtle_Bay

And they serve similar purposes, part of reclaiming public space for the community. Don't miss it if you find yourself in New Plymouth.