Chris Amon statue unveiled in Bulls

A 2.4m statue of Kiwi motorsport legend, Chris Amon, now stands tall in Bulls. Seven years in the making, an unveiling took place over the weekend with family, friends and Ferraris in attendance. The Post reported that several hundred people attended the occasion on High St, Bulls, the statue standing tall outside the old library.

Amon was one of the first Kiwis to compete in F1. He was involved in the sport from 1963 to 1976. Amongst his many victories was the 24-hour Le Mans race in 1966 with fellow Kiwi Bruce McLaren. They drove a Ford GT40 Mk II. It was also an era when Denny Hulme was prominent.

Son James Amon said it was fitting that members from all three families were present for Sunday’s unveiling.

He said his father, who died in 2016 aged 73, would have been “incredibly humbled“ by the statue.

Daughter Georgie Phillips says her father would be happy to be tall “for once in his life”.

Designer Matt Gauldie penned the statue, while sculptors Roy and Eva Harkness constructed it. The project was conceived by Paul Sharland, from the Bulls & District Historical Society.

James Amon commented: “The statue is more than a tribute to his racing legacy; it’s a reminder of a life lived with humility and quiet determination.”

The crowd applauded after he and sister Georgie Phillips revealed the statue. She said it would have brought her father joy to know there would be such a gathering, not just of family and friends but also the Ferraris.

Rangitīkei mayor Andy Watson said the statue would provide a significant remembrance of the Amon family and their connection to the district.