Rainbow storytelling comes to life in a dynamic new light show by contemporary installation artist Alex Watene (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Whātua, Te Arawa a Tūhoe) and will be the feature of Vector Lights for Auckland Pride Festival. ‘Re-indigenizing gender diversity here in Aotearoa New Zealand’ explores the impact of colonisation and raises awareness about Takatāpui identity and its acceptance in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Alex Watene is a Takatāpui artist and a master’s student at Unitec in Tāmaki Makaurau. His thesis research explores the intersection of whakapapa and identity through installation art, addressing themes of sexuality, identity, colonialism, kaupapa Māori, and te ao Māori. Through his work, Alex aims to foster deeper connections between these contexts and contemporary Māori art practices.
As an installation artist, Alex is drawn to large-scale public works that allow for bold, visual storytelling. Colour is a central element of his style, reflecting his vibrant and flamboyant personality. Over the years, Alex has experimented with a variety of materials, including wool, foil, straws, and boxes. In his master’s journey, he has discovered the power of integrating identity with traditional Māori art forms, bringing greater meaning and kaupapa to his artistic practice.
The light show is accompanied by waiata 'E moko e' by Ariana Tikao and Alistair Fraser and
'ŌHĀKĪ' by Mokotron.
Vector Lights for Auckland Pride Festival 2025 – What you need to know
• The light and sound show will play from Thursday 20 February to Friday 28 February from 9pm until midnight and playing every 15 minutes.
• Head to vector.co.nz/lights to listen live or to watch the livestream recording. Some of the best viewing places include Little Shoal Bay, Westhaven Marina, and Silo Park.
• Share your photos on Instagram using #vectorlights
• Vector Lights is part of a smart energy partnership between Vector, Auckland Council and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.
• Due to critical maintenance work by NZTA, some of the lights will not appear on the west side overarch of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Completion of the work is expected by 31 March 2025