Hairy Maclary and Friends Sculpture
Life-sized bronze statues of Hairy Maclary & his friends, bringing beloved children's book characters to life on Tauranga's waterfront.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and great for photos
Hairy Maclary and Friends Sculpture
Best Time
Peaceful and great for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Life-sized bronze statues of Hairy Maclary & his friends, bringing beloved children's book characters to life on Tauranga's waterfront.
"Awesome Hairy Maclary statues that are great to photograph with your kids."
📸 Photo Opportunities
These life-sized bronze statues are perfect for memorable photos with kids and book lovers alike!
📚 Bring the Books!
Enhance the experience by bringing the Hairy Maclary books to read aloud with the sculptures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hairy Maclary Sculpture
Waterfront
Life-sized bronze statues of the iconic Hairy Maclary and his friends, perfect for photos and sparking imagination.
Interactive Animal Hunt
Around the sculptures
Kids love searching for and naming each of the characters, making it an engaging activity for all ages.
Waterfront Access
Adjacent to sculptures
Enjoy steps leading down to the estuary for a refreshing dip of your feet on a warm day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Must-See for Book Lovers
Combine with Playtime
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities
These life-sized bronze statues are perfect for memorable photos with kids and book lovers alike!
📚 Bring the Books!
Enhance the experience by bringing the Hairy Maclary books to read aloud with the sculptures.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some exploring and playing, so wear comfy shoes for walking and climbing.
💧 Water Play Fun
The waterfront access is great for a quick splash, so consider bringing a change of clothes.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities
These life-sized bronze statues are perfect for memorable photos with kids and book lovers alike!
📚 Bring the Books!
Enhance the experience by bringing the Hairy Maclary books to read aloud with the sculptures.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some exploring and playing, so wear comfy shoes for walking and climbing.
💧 Water Play Fun
The waterfront access is great for a quick splash, so consider bringing a change of clothes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Hairy Maclary and Friends Sculpture, calling it a brilliant and charming attraction, especially for families and fans of the beloved children's books. The life-sized bronze statues are a hit for photos and interactive play, with many appreciating the adjacent park and waterfront access.
"Great park and playground for kids. Heaps of climbing things, swings and water play stuff. Awesome Hairy Maclary statues that are great to photograph with your kids"
Paul Edgerley
"Brilliant sculptures - if you've read the books to your kids you and they will love them - if not read your kids the books!"
richard marjoram
"The kids had the best time ever. Loved naming the animals and searching out each one. You can spend quite a bit of time searching and playing as an activity before you even get to the playpark next door. Suitable for various ages too. Different heights mean our 1 yo and 5 yo both had fun climbing and playing around the statues."
Mairi Orr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sculpture is located in Tauranga, New Zealand, along the waterfront. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Many visitors arrive on foot as part of a stroll along the scenic waterfront.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the waterfront, though they can get busy during peak times. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby streets if the main lots are full.
Absolutely! The waterfront is a popular walking route, and the Hairy Maclary and Friends Sculpture is a key attraction along the way. It's a pleasant walk from many central Tauranga locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Hairy Maclary and Friends Sculpture is a free public art installation. You can visit and enjoy it anytime without purchasing a ticket.
The sculpture is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public art piece. You can visit at your leisure, though daytime offers the best light for photos.
There is no admission fee. The sculptures are a wonderful free attraction for families and book enthusiasts in Tauranga.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the life-sized bronze statues of Hairy Maclary and his friends, take photos, and enjoy the waterfront views. It's also a great spot for kids to 'hunt' for each character.
Yes, it's very child-friendly! Kids love interacting with the statues, and the nearby playground makes it a perfect family outing. The different heights of the statues cater to various ages.
Definitely! The sculptures are designed for interaction and make for fantastic photo opportunities. Many visitors pose with their favorite characters.
Yes, there's a fantastic park and playground right next door, and the waterfront offers lovely walking paths. You can also find restaurants nearby for a post-visit meal. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. However, the sculptures are charming at any time of day, and capturing kids' reactions is always a highlight.
You can take classic portraits with the characters, fun action shots of kids playing, and scenic shots incorporating the waterfront. It's a versatile spot for creative photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pair your visit with the adjacent playground for a complete family outing. Many reviewers highlight how children can spend hours here, moving from the sculptures to the swings and climbing structures. The waterfront access also offers a chance for kids to dip their toes in the estuary, making it a refreshing stop on a sunny day.
📚 Book Lovers & Nostalgia Seekers
Even if you're not familiar with the books, the artistic merit and charm of the life-sized bronze figures are undeniable. They are beautifully crafted and a delightful addition to Tauranga's waterfront, offering a unique cultural experience that stands out from typical tourist attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Lynley Dodd's Characters
These sculptures are more than just art; they are an invitation to engage with literature. Visitors, especially families, are encouraged to bring their Hairy Maclary books along. Reading the stories aloud while standing beside the characters adds a layer of magic and makes the experience incredibly immersive. It’s a fantastic way to foster a love for reading in children, making literary characters feel real and accessible.
The placement of the sculptures along the waterfront in Tauranga adds to their charm. The scenic backdrop enhances the visual appeal and provides a pleasant environment for exploration. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a unique blend of art, literature, and outdoor enjoyment.
A Family-Friendly Destination
What elevates this experience is its proximity to a fantastic park and playground. This allows families to seamlessly transition from appreciating the literary art to enjoying active play. The combination of the sculptures and the playground makes it an ideal spot for a full morning or afternoon outing, ensuring that children have ample opportunities for both imaginative play and physical activity.
Furthermore, the waterfront location offers additional benefits. With steps leading down to the estuary, younger children can safely dip their feet in the water on warmer days, adding another element of fun. This makes the entire area a comprehensive destination for family fun, combining cultural appreciation with recreational activities.
Social
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