Pentacles
Tasman Canvas has worked alongside the Rites of Passage Foundation for over two decades, bringing to life a remarkable series of Pentacle gathering tents designed to support youth rites of passage, community events, and milestone celebrations. The partnership began in 2002, when the first tent was crafted from canvas and used for many years of meaningful gatherings. Since then, the design has evolved through several iterations, from smaller travelling versions to the current fifth-generation structure, the most advanced and substantial to date.
The latest Pentacle Tent was developed in close collaboration with a structural engineer and holds full building consent for public use. Designed to accommodate up to 50–60 people, it features eight-tonne anchor blocks, 20mm steel cables, and 32mm galvanised turnbuckles in a complex rigging system that allows for a completely open interior, with no centre poles or obstructions across its five gable ends. Constructed from premium architectural-grade PVC, the tent is heavily reinforced, eyeletted, and laced onto its cable framework for exceptional strength and durability.
With a wind rating of 200 km/h and a projected design life of over 20 years for the covers (and 50+ years for the structure), the Pentacle Tent stands as a masterpiece of innovation and endurance. Over time, additional features such as gable walls, an annex tent, and a retractable stage curtain have been added, making it a versatile space for both intimate gatherings and large theatre-style events.
The Pentacle Tent reflects the very best of Tasman Canvas, blending craftsmanship, engineering, and collaboration to create a timeless structure that shelters transformation, celebration, and connection for generations to come.
Testimonials
“When it comes to collaboration on bespoke design and the manufacture of beautiful, robust, functional and contemporary spaces, you couldn’t find a better company than Tasman Canvas they’ve delivered for us over and over again.
None more so than with our most recent project, our biggest and most challenging to date. We could have easily been out of our depth, but their team looked after us every step of the way.
Always professional, friendly and approachable and when things took an unexpected turn, as big projects do; understanding, supportive, responsive and flexible. There was never any doubt they’d get us there one way or another”
Adge Tucker – Rites of Passage Foundation.