Wellington Legend – Blanket Man
If you happen to be walking through Courtney Place in Wellington, you’ll come across a man- a Maori man wrapped in a purple blanket, nearly naked, with his long dreads and carefree spirit sitting by the side of the road. His name is Ben Hana or better known by all as Blanket Man.
He has become an iconic figure of Wellington’s Cuba Mall and Courtenay Place. Wearing nothing but a loincloth, he is one of Wellington’s most recognizable icons. His possessions seem to include only a blanket, an iPod, and the occasional peace pipe.
You will find him jamming to music on his iPod (he likes rock music) and staring despondently at the traffic. He has developed a taste for Jelly tips and is also a fan of Fanta . He will smile at you if you smile at him. He’ll greet you and accept your cigarettes, even have a chat if you join him on his corner of Courtney place. It’s not only his apparel and attitudes that make Blanket Man a subject of such scrutiny, but also the fact that, since 2001, he has chosen to be homeless. He is neither an alcoholic nor an unhappy man and doesn’t beg. He likes his lifestyle, and above all the freedom, which it gives him.
Blanket man is a self-proclaimed devotee of the Māori sun god Tama-nui-te-rā, and claims that wearing as few clothes as are legally allowable is an act of religious observance. Blanket man gives a face and name to many of the increasing number of homeless who roam Wellington’s fair streets and inspires both loathing and a grudging respect amongst the citizens of Wellington. He is an interesting character, always jolly and says hello to everyone. He is as much a part of Wellington as anything else. While some see him as a public nuisance, and hygiene risk, others respect his rugged individualism and see him as an integral part of the city’s urban fabric.
To meet Blanket man for yourself come and stay with us at Nomads Wellington Backpackers Hostel.
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