“Ever wondered how art can transform a functional structure into a vibrant celebration of nature?” Today we are standing before the Birdy Bytes Mural. This mural is not just paint on concrete. It is a story of Aotearoa’s native birds. It reminds us of our role as kaitiaki of the natural environment.
The Birdy Bytes Mural is officially named ‘Mai i ngā maunga ki te moana’. This translates to “from the mountains to the sea”. The name reflects the interwoven relationships within te taiao or nature. It highlights the importance of these connected ecosystems.
Mana whenua artists Janine and Charles Williams created this stunning mural. They brought beauty and cultural interpretation to what was once a simple concrete pump station. The pump station manages Wynyard Quarter’s wastewater and was completed in 2018. Eke Panuku commissioned the artwork in partnership with mana whenua. This was part of the wider Wynyard Quarter redevelopment project. Auckland Transport delivered Amey Daldy Park where the mural resides. The park is named after the iconic Kiwi suffragist.
Spanning 16 metres wide and 12 metres high, the Birdy Bytes Mural dominates the pump station. It features twelve native birds. Each bird faces its respective habitat. Some look towards the moana or ocean. Others face the takutai, meaning beach or shore. The rest gaze towards the pararau, repo, or maunga representing forest, swamp, or mountains.
The artists carefully considered the location and orientation of the structure. They selected colours that reflect the natural habitat of each bird. This selection was done in consultation with mana whenua. The mural also shows comparisons of the birds’ physical sizes.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the featured birds in the Birdy Bytes Mural. We can see the Kuaka or Bar-tailed godwit. There is also the Karuhiruhi or Kawau also known as the Pied shag. The Tarāpuka, or Black-billed gull, is proudly displayed. You might spot the Pakahā the Fluttering shearwater.
Other birds included in the mural are the Kāka and the Warou also known as the Welcome swallow. The Kōkako or Blue-wattled crow is a striking addition. Then we have the Korimako, the Bellbird. Also included is the Pūkeko, the Purple swamphen. There is also the Karoro or Southern black-backed gull. And we cannot miss the Tōrea which is the Oyster catcher. Finally the Tuturiwhatu or Dotterel completes the avian collection.
Janine and Charles Williams stated that their work responds to the physical location of the pump station. It considers its geographical position in Tāmaki Makaurau. Eke Panuku sees this mural as a reminder. They must be kaitiaki or guardians of Tāmaki Makaurau’s natural environment.
So as you admire the Birdy Bytes Mural remember it is more than just a pretty picture. It is a reminder of our connection to nature. It highlights the importance of protecting our native birds and their habitats. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and the message behind this beautiful mural. It is a testament to the power of art to inspire and educate.