Te Hononga - Whangārei’s Latest Big Artwork Completed

Whangārei’s latest public artwork has its official karakia and opening on at 7:00am on Friday 24 May. To be led by kaumatua Fred Tito, it will take place by the work - on the corner of John and Robert Streets, Whangārei.

The large scale mural is a collaboration between Mike and Linda Tupaea of Wheku Design, students of Te Kāpehu Whetū, and local social enterprise spacelamp.

Students Polly Sadler, Autahi Hook, Taiharuru Ross and Bailey Munro contributed to the work, with large parts of the work created at Te Kāpehu Whetū, before being installed on the building.

Along with Mike and Linda, local artists Isaiah Rameka and Walter Dewes assisted in painting the work.

“The birthing of this mural coupled with the opportunity to create and work with our rangatahi has been a highlight.” Mike Tupaea - Wheku Design

Creating the artwork has been a powerful learning and development process for all of those involved.

“The participation of our ākonga in this programme has enabled them to connect to aspects Te Ao Māori within the context of their whānau, hapū and Iwi, under the cloak of the special character of Te Kāpehu Whetū, the 28 Māori Battalion. Tū ki te Marae, tu ki te Ao!” Maia Cooper - Te Kāpehu Whetū

“This ticks so many boxes for us which includes creating artworks for communities, passing on skills and knowledge to the next generation and contributing to stronger communities as a whole.” MIke Tupaea - Wheku Design

The title of this mural Te Hononga it about connections relationships or bonds that are vital for us to be successful.” Mike Tupaea - Wheku Design

Whangārei’s newest cafe, Palate Wholesome Collective (also on John Street), will be providing food for the event.

All are welcome to attend.

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