Octopoda

Octopoda plants eight giant drums in Aotea Square, each one an invitation to bang, beat and experiment. Every rhythm struck sends colour racing along the octopus's tentacles, triggering animations and playful bursts of light that shift with the noise families make together — louder, faster, more chaotic rhythms produce their own results.

The work is created by Amigo & Amigo, a studio that specialises in large-scale interactive public art and has shown at more than 50 light festivals worldwide. Their approach centres on physical interactivity and the kind of instinctive play that needs no instructions — children tend to work that out within seconds.

Designed for all ages and free to visit, Octopoda sits in one of central Auckland's most accessible open spaces, making it an easy addition to a city-centre outing.