A new sculptural installation has been unveiled at the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail in Matakana, adding to the popular destination’s appeal. The installation, titled *Within the Wings of the Kāruhiruhi*, is the winning entry of the 2026 Brick Bay Folly competition and was created by recent graduates from the University of Auckland’s architecture program: Nyle Macaranas, Sufyaan Chuttur, Naomi Felicia, Jasleen Basra, and Rain Nario.

The artwork draws inspiration from the pied shag, a native bird species, and is designed to reflect the ephemeral qualities of the natural environment. The structure features two expansive timber wings that curve gracefully, inviting visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape. These wings are enveloped in woven layers of fallen leaves, which have been stitched into a coir netting.

The design incorporates an intentional process of natural transformation, with the leaves expected to weather, curl, and eventually detach over time. This gradual change will expose the timber framework beneath, thereby enabling the installation to evolve organically in tandem with its environment.

Situated within the expansive grounds of the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, the new folly provides an immersive experience for visitors year-round. It combines architectural innovation with a sensitive appreciation for nature’s rhythms, reflecting the creative vision of the young architectural team.

The Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, well-known for its diverse outdoor artworks, continues to attract visitors seeking a blend of art and nature. The addition of *Within the Wings of the Kāruhiruhi* reinforces the site’s reputation as a venue for innovative and site-responsive installations.