The Lady on the Rock statue is widely recognized as a symbol of our region, unveiled at the Whakatāne Heads in 1965 as a memorial to the wife of Sir William Sullivan who was a driving force in Whakatāne during the 20th century. The striking bronze statue atop Turuturu Rock lies at the mouth of the Whakatāne River and commemorates the bravery of Wairaka, the daughter of Toroa, captain-navigator of the Mataatua waka.

When the Mataatua waka first arrived at Whakatāne after making a perilous voyage from Ngāti Awa’s ancestral homeland of Hawaiki 600 years ago, the men left the women alone in the canoe while they went ashore. When the canoe started to drift back to sea, Wairaka defied the tapu that forbade women to handle a canoe and seized the paddle to bring the waka back to shore crying.

Visitors to Whakatāne are drawn to this iconic statue, which stands as a testament to the enduring heritage of the region. It invites all to reflect on the remarkable stories that have shaped New Zealand and celebrates the courage and fortitude that continue to define its people.

The Statue of Wairaka is not just a piece of art but a living tribute to the legends and legacies that have enriched New Zealand's cultural tapestry. It invites us to remember and honor the remarkable women who have shaped history and inspires us to forge our own path with courage and determination.