Wanderyn
Wind Wand
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · NZ

Wind Wand

Getting around: On New Plymouth's waterfront, an easy walk from the city centre along the Coastal Walkway.
Hours: Visible and accessible at all times, best viewed after dark when it's lit.

The Wind Wand is a 45-metre flexible red fibreglass sculpture by artist Len Lye, designed to sway visibly in the wind and lit red at night, making it one of New Plymouth's most recognisable landmarks along the waterfront. It embodies Len Lye's interest in kinetic, moving art — the whole point is that it bends and moves rather than standing rigid.

It's a quick photo stop rather than an extended visit, best combined with a walk along the Coastal Walkway, and particularly striking at night when lit.

Wind Wand FAQs

Who created the Wind Wand?

Len Lye, a pioneering New Zealand kinetic artist whose work is also the focus of the nearby Len Lye Centre.

How tall is it?

About 45 metres.

Is it always moving?

It sways in response to wind, so its movement varies with conditions — it's designed to visibly flex rather than stay rigid.

When is the best time to see it?

After dark, when it's lit red, though it's visible and interesting during the day too.

Is it free to view?

Yes, it's a public waterfront sculpture with no entry fee.

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