Wellingtonians were asked whether they knew who Archibald Baxter was, and what they made of the sculpture.

Peace Action Wellington has confirmed it was behind a series of three pro-pacifism sculptures that appeared around Wellington on Anzac Day.

According to spokesman James Barber three of the sculptures were created and placed around Wellington to be discovered on Monday morning.

One, outside Te Papa, was quickly removed by museum security.

CAMERON BURNELL/FAIRFAX NZ The sculpture depicts the cruel torture field punishment number one position.

It was unclear what happened to the Civic Square one.

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But one, at Frank Kitts Park, remained up.

The sculptures depict a soldier, seemingly New Zealand's most well-known conscientious objector, Archibald Baxter, bound in "field punishment number one position" - a torture imposed on Baxter and others during World War I for refusing to fight.

Barber said the sculptures were put out to raise awareness about conscientious objection and because "conscientious objectors and people who dispute the war are brushed over by the traditional view of Anzac Day".

While Wellington City Council has said it won't be rushing to remove the Frank Kitts sculpture, it is unlikely to survive the elements for long, with much made from masking tape and paper.

Asked if he would like to see a permanent version of the sculpture installed, Barber said that was a decision that would have to include the families of conscientious objectors and the wider community.