In 2017 Natalie completed a large 2.9 metre high bronze sculpture of rugby legend Sir Colin Meads. As one of New Zealand's greatest rugby players he was awarded the player of the century in 1999.
Te Kuiti, a town in the middle of the North Island wanted to honour their rugby legends Sir Colin Meads and his brother Stan.
As one of New Zealand's most iconic All Blacks, and known throughout the
world for his down-to-earth and tough rugby style, Sir Colin Meads has always
been important to Te Kuiti, the King Country town of about 4000 residents.
Sir Colin and his younger brother, Stan Meads unveiled the bronze sculpture on June the 19th 2017.
The 55 test All Black nicknamed "Pinetree," Sir Colin Meads played 133 games in total for the All Blacks and scored 86 points over his international career that lasted more than 14 years. His final test was also against the British and Irish Lions during the 1971 tour, which is the last time the visitors beat the All Blacks in a test series in New Zealand.
The project was commissioned by the town's Legendary Te Kuiti committee and was funded by sponsors, donations and grants. As part of the tribute the committee put together the Gallagher Meads Brothers Exhibition, which recognises Sir Colin along with his younger brother Stan Meads. He played 15 tests in the black jersey over his career with his final test being against the British and Irish Lions in 1966.
"I won't be able to have too many beers afterwards but I'll try and have a few," Sir Colin said at he unveiling.
"The statue looks amazing," Legendary Te Kuiti committee marketing officer Yvette Ronaldson said.
"It's definitely a community event, it's not just a celebration for Sir Colin and Stan and the Meads family, it's also a celebration for Te Kuiti."
Other notable New Zealanders attended the unveiling including prominent sports commentator Keith Quinn and former All Blacks' Sir Brian Lochore and Bryan Williams. British and Irish Lions team manager John Spencer was also in attendance.
