The story of Boom Boom.
A mirror-polished dinosaur on a boulder by Gregor Kregar — eight years in the making.
After placing nine sculptures around town, the Trust set out to install a major new public artwork — one bold enough to put Taupō on the map.
A bigger ambition
With nine works already placed, the Trust won a 50/50 council arts commitment — $100,000 toward a major new sculpture — and began the search for a sculptor, a site and the rest of the funds.
The unanimous choice
Ten of New Zealand’s leading sculptors were invited to propose a $200,000 piece. Gregor Kregar’s dinosaur on a rock was the unanimous pick — bold, robust, engaging, and backed by a strong international reputation.
A new home on the river
When the original Taharepa Road site proved unsuitable, the setback became an opportunity: the idea of a Riverside Sculpture Trail in Riverside Park, with council approval for future works along the way.
Raising the last $100k
A fundraising evening at Huka Lodge brought in $75,000, and further initiatives completed the $100,000 the Trust needed to raise to match the council’s commitment.
Unveiled
With funding secured and the new site confirmed, Boom Boom was revealed to the public in May 2025 — eight years after the journey began.
The anatomy of a landmark.
Public art sparks debate — but it also creates conversation and draws visitors. Boom Boom helped put Taupō on the map, nationally and internationally.