By Janika Ter Ellen
Hairy Maclary, the scraggly pooch from Donaldson's Dairy, is one of New Zealand's best-loved children's characters.
Created by Dame Lynley Dodd in 1983 the pooch’s series of books shot to fame, selling millions of copies worldwide.
Now almost 30 years later the characters are getting a new lease on life, set to become sculptures on Tauranga's waterfront much to the author's delight.
“As part of writing book you don't really expect to have your characters end up immortalised...but it's hugely exciting to think the city is keen to have them there ...And the thought of having them there forever for children to be able to go and enjoy is really great,” says Dodd.
The nine bronze artworks are being made in Wellington by Brigitte Wuest - the head sculptor on the Lord of the Rings films.
First, a miniature statue is made to get the proportions right, a process which requires the approval of Wuest's 4-year-old an avid Hairy Maclary fan.
“He is actually one of my toughest critics...he comes in here and tells me oh no this is not quite right, and mum, you gotta change his eyes,” says Ms Wuest.
Then comes the final version, it's Dodd's illustration combined with a dose of realism.
“When I am out walking my dog I approach people with suitable breeds...and I ask them if I can take photos and measurements,” she says.
The statues will be in place by November when Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, visits New Zealand. She recently declared Hairy Maclary her favourite book and distributed thousands of copies to children across the UK through her charity.
3 News