Mural makes its mark at Eastside park

A stunning artwork now surrounds the new wharepuku (toilet) at Puketawhero Park, reflecting the Eastside taiao (environment) and hunga ao (people).

The installation of the toilet and the painting of the mural is a result of Rotorua Lakes Council working with mana whenua and community on the Eastside of Rotorua through the Tatau Pounamu approach of creating a safe and caring community.

Rangatahi from Mokoia Intermediate School worked with renowned artist Marc Spijkerbosch to create the mural. Ākonga (students) at Mokoia Intermediate School have been invested in this project, said Fiona Wilcock, Toi Ataata Kaiako, Specialist Teacher Visual Arts.

“The whole experience from working alongside Marc reflecting on our community to developing ideas and drawing up designs for the mural, to painting on site with Marc has provided our ākonga with such a rich and meaningful learning experience. It was such a pleasure to see our Mokoia Art Extension ākonga (students) having a platform from which they could shine and be seen. Definitely an experience that they will cherish. Marc has been incredibly generous with his time, his knowledge and his empathy for our ākonga has been beautiful. Working with such an amazing artist has been inspiring for all of us!”