#798 ... Oriental Iceberg

The Iceberg in Oriental Bay ... YEAH RIGHT

A fake 'iceberg' in Wellington's Oriental Bay yesterday was made by special effects wizards Weta for a climate change stunt. The object, which appears to be made of polystyrene or a similar material, is between the Carter Fountain and the Overseas Passenger Terminal. A plaque visible on the 'iceberg' reads: "Press anonymous 2009".

A group of self-described anonymous artists claimed responsibility for the 'iceberg' via email. "We are not affiliated with any formal group."We're just people who care, people who have children. This is an appeal to every New Zealander who sees this artwork to stand up and take action. It's time to really do something about climate change, before it's too late."

Weta spokeswoman Ri Streeter said Weta Workshop was commissioned to make the iceberg by the artists, who asked to remain anonymous. "When the artists approached us they told us it was a statement for global warming." The group wanted to create conversation and awareness around the issue and Weta thought it was an interesting thing to do, she said. It was installed by a team of professionals and overseen by Weta. It was not a hazard and was clear of the shipping lane, Ms Street said. The object became a talking point on Oriental Parade, with observers variously speculating that it could be an artwork, a movie prop, advertising, or a climate change awareness stunt.

Last month, the Hutt motorway traffic was brought to a crawl one morning rush-hour as motorists slowed to spy at what appeared to be a school of sharks swimming in the harbour. But the fins were fakes being used to promote a fish market at Lowry Bay in Eastbourne.