South and East Auckland are vibrant areas enriched with community spirit and cultural diversity, beautifully showcased through creative initiatives like the Chorus Cabinet Art programme. The Chorus Cabinet Art programme is a nationwide effort aimed at fostering community pride and deterring graffiti vandalism.
The Beautification Trust facilitates the programme in South Auckland, choosing winning artists whose designs resonate with the local communities, histories, and natural environment.
Local artists have been busy transforming blank street cabinets into eye-catching pieces of art. They add beauty to our streets, showcase our culture and environment, and keep graffiti at bay.
Each mural tells a unique story, reflecting the talent and diversity of our local whenua. But beyond looking amazing, these art cabinets play a vital role in our communities. By providing a platform for local artists, we not only enhance our streets but also cultivate pride and connection among residents.
Below is a collated list of the recent murals done in South & East Auckland so you can find them on your next walk. And if you spot one in your neighbourhood, post a pic and tag us on Instagram!
Artist: Brigita Botma | Location: 110 Reynolds Road, Pukekohe | Title: An Aotearoa Evening
Brigita's design shows tui enjoying the sweet nectar of a Poohutakawa flower as the sun begins to set. The whimsical colours are reminiscent of an Aawhitu sunset over the sand dune peaks of the Manukau heads. The design features flora and fauna that are common to the area surrounding Pukekohe in a simplistic but colourful way.
Artist: Andrew McKay | Location: 9 McRobbie Road, Kingseat | Title: Pink Pekapeka
The backdrop of Andrew McKay's design symbolizes the fertile pastureland of the surrounding area, the waves of the Manukau harbour up to the Kingseat inlet, the blue skies in the day, and the dark skies we have at night. The pink bats represent the native long-tailed Pekapeka and it also fits in with the haunted attraction Spookers which is just down the road.
Artist: Faleata Ualesi | Location: 149 Motatau Road, Papatoetoe | Title: Sun and Sea
Faleata Ualesi's art showcases a Pasifika-inspired, stylised, cluster of stars with bright geometric contrasting backgrounds. The vibrancy of colours creates a warmth invoking memories of summer. No matter the season or time of year, this Chorus cabinet will elicit a sense of warmth and happiness associated with Kiwi summers and going to the beach.
Artist: Rodney Horton | Location: Cnr Lady Ruby and Sir William Avenue, East Taamaki | Title: Steam Punk Comms
Rodney Horton highlights the inner workings of a Chorus cabinet using vibrant colours and dynamic lighting. Her design cleverly uses these elements to differentiate between traditional concepts and the hidden realities of modern communications technology.
Artist: Jim To’o Filiva'a Stretton | Location: 44 Sharland Avenue, Manurewa | Title: Flower of the Pacific
Jim To’o Filiva'a Stretton's "Flower of the Pacific" showcases one of the most beautiful and well-known Pacific flowers at its centre. This revered pattern, widely embraced across Pacific cultures, symbolises prosperity, new journeys, life, and love. Surrounding the central motif are intricate patterns, emphasizing the paramount importance of family in the Pacific islands.
Artist: Hazel Williams/Papakura Art Group | Location: 115 Hamlin Road, Ardmore | Title: The Tale of Airfield Rd
Hazel Williams and Papakura Art Group created this piece based on a story of the land. "This land was once a great Kauri forest, long before people walked here. A catastrophe happened. The trees all died and a swamp took over in which the trees sank and in time the ground became peat with fossilized trees and amber. The amber diggers arrived to try and make their fortune. The land was flat and so later became suitable for an airport which became very important for Auckland. Eventually, houses were built as people moved to the area, and so a garden centre was established."
Artist: Paula Green | Location: 41 Stratford Road, Manurewa | Title: Harakeke at the Gardens
In Paula Green's "Harakeke at the Gardens," the Harakeke (Flax) stands as a symbol of whaanau (family) and resilience. From woven garments to fishing lines, it was integral to Maaori life, embodying tradition and unity. Green's portrayal, set against the uku (clay soil) of Manurewa, honours the plant's diverse uses and its deep connection to the land.
Artist: Scarlett Kean | Location: 1360 Alfriston Road, Papakura | Title: I Spy
Scarlett Kean says: "The Alfriston intersection is always buzzing with cheeky tamariki (including my little cousins!). I thought it only fitting to make an exciting design that the kids could engage with. The design is an 'I Spy' puzzle. The borders of each panel are decorated with flora and fauna that passersby must then try to find hidden among two scenes on the larger sides - a mountain scene of the Hunua ranges, and a paddock scene. On the narrower sides are a girl and boy character on a hunt for creatures too! "
Artist: Laura Young | Location: 185 Kilkenny Drive, East Taamaki Heights | Title: My Neighbour Pukeko
Laura Young's mural pays homage to the vibrant cultural fusion of Howick and Botany. Inspired by her upbringing as a Chinese Kiwi and the rich tapestry of Asian pop culture, Young's mural reimagines scenes from the beloved Japanese film 'My Neighbour Totoro', with a whimsical twist featuring Aotearoa's native bird, the Pukeko. Positioned against a backdrop reminiscent of local bus stops, this artwork celebrates the enduring legacy of cultural exchange in East Taamaki Heights.
Artist: Elisabeth Kumaran | Location: Cnr Coronation Road & Hastie Avenue, Maangere Bridge | Title: Māngere Bridge Motifs
Elisabeth Kumaran's mural celebrates the unique essence of the Maangere Bridge community. Stylised icons depict familiar landmarks like Maangere Mountain and the new Maangere Bridge, alongside representations of native birds, farm life, and vibrant flowers. The mural also captures the spirit of water activities with scenes of waka ama and fishing, showcasing the diverse tapestry of experiences that contribute to the rich fabric of life in Maangere Bridge.
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