This work is the prototype of a number of wooden flag related constructions that Para made and exhibited through the 1980’s including the massive Te Wepu (The Whip) in the Te Papa collection and his Wellington Civic Centre Bridge work.

This work was made specifically for the 1984 Nga Puna Waihanga (NZ Maori Artists and Writers Society) exhibition and was literally constructed on the Gallery floor a short time before the exhibition opening. Para was President of the national organisation at that time and had overview of the exhibition content. The exhibition was held in conjunction with the annual conference and AGM held at Ratana Pa, Whanganui 1 June 1984 - 4 June 1984.

'A highlight of the conference was the visit to the Seargeant [sic] Art Gallery, Wanganui, where an exhibition of maori art was mounted to coincide with our hui. Many of our members were exhibiting. They included Selwyn Muru, John Ford, Ross Hemera, Fred Graham, Danny Nicholas, Matt Pine, Mark Klarisich, Baye Riddell, John Hovell, Robyn Kahukiwa, Ralph Hotere, W. Heteraka, Pari Te Whata, Para Matchitt, Jacob Scott, and many others including weavers and carvers from all areas. Some had not exhibited with us before. Their inclusion is welcomed.'
extract from 'Nga Puna Waihanga 1984' Tu Tangata, Issue 19, 1 August 1984