By Craig Hoyle
Social networking has been brought to life in Auckland today with a three-storey bricks-and-mortar recreation of the Facebook site.
The physical wall, setup in Aotea Square, mimics the appearance of a Facebook homepage but involves real-life people.
Members of the public are encouraged to share status updates which are then yelled out by a performer through a megaphone.
The Facebook chat function is also brought to life, with a performer standing in a 'chat box' to talk to onlookers.
Other features of the wall include a live dancer, and an artist who draws large replicas of photos that are ‘uploaded’ to the page.
The eight-metre wall is part of a campaign by LG Electronics.
National marketing manager Richard Bryant says the project aims to bring socialising back into the real world.
“In an increasingly digital world, we’re excited that we’re able to humanise technology with this attention-grabbing New Zealand first,” he says.
Mr Bryant says a large percentage of New Zealanders have taken to Facebook and it’s important for companies to keep up with online developments.
“Ninety percent of Kiwis aged between 15 and 39 are on Facebook, so obviously it’s a huge market,” he says. “If you don’t have Facebook, you get left behind.”
The wall will remain in Aotea Square until the weekend, with a number of prizes being offered to those who participate.
Status updates have so far included jokes, shout-outs to friends, and even a marriage proposal.
3 News