Hands off: New Zealand waves goodbye to its giant ‘monster’ hand sculpture

Named Quasi, the 16 feet – almost 5 metres – creation of Australia-based sculptor Ronnie van Hout bears an unsmiling human face – because why not?

Some found it disturbing, and now, after five years of provoking controversy and myriad emotions – from horror and revulsion to delight – among residents of New Zealand’s capital, Quasi will be removed from the roof of City Gallery this week.

It will be taken to a new home, the gallery said on Wednesday.

“This is either a great day for Wellington or a terrible day for Wellington and there’s not much view in between,” said Ben McNulty, a Wellington city council member.

Personally, McNulty said he felt “devastated” by the sculpture’s departure.