A new mural on the toilet block at Eric Armishaw Reserve in Point Chevalier has been celebrated with a traditional blessing by Rev. Otene Reweti, members of Albert-Eden Local Board and members of the Kākano Youth Arts Collective.
Albert-Eden Local Board Chair Peter Haynes hopes the mural will reinforce the message to respect the wildlife in the adjacent wetlands and tidal flats (the latter forming part of the Motu Manawa Marine Reserve).
“The idea for the mural suggested itself when members of the local board visited the Reserve a few years ago to study the impact of park activities on the local environment.”
The richness of the birdlife around the park is reflected in the three birds depicted: the Kāki (Black Stilt), Pukeko and Whio (Mallard Duck). Pohutukawa, numerous in the Reserve, also feature in the mural.
The Kākano Youth Arts Collective also wanted to reflect Māori connections to the land. The mural incorporates two tukutuku patterns. The pātiki pattern of concentric diamonds reflects the shape of the flounder and signifies the abundance of food formerly to be found in this area, especially in the mudflats. The kaokao pattern represents human strength.
Local board member Margi Watson noted that, “the project has a good spin-off for the young people involved, who are building up employment skills.
"The Kākano Youth Arts Collective does a lot of good work with the youth in West Auckland, and we’re pleased to support them.”
Members of the local board were pleased to thank the young artists and commend their work.
“The local board is all for murals—they can liven up a place, and they also help to build a sense of place. This mural does both,” says Dr Haynes.
More details on the Kākano Youth Collective here.
