Cityscape Mural

Did the Cityscape Mural always look this way? It’s hard to imagine Auckland without this vibrant splash of colour. The Cityscape Mural, located on the corner of Tangihua Street and Dockside Lane, is more than just a painting. It is a testament to Auckland’s rich cultural tapestry and a powerful symbol of diversity and inclusion. This three-panelled masterpiece was brought to life by a unique collaboration of local artists and tertiary art students. In 2021, Study Auckland invited art students to join the project. Three talented students, Nikita Sharma, Celia Lee, and Jenny Zhong, were selected to design and paint one of the mural’s panels. They worked alongside established local artists Ross Liew, Hana Maihi, and Poi Ngawati. The artists aimed to explore the meaning of public art in New Zealand. The other two panels, designed by Hana and Poi, highlight the area’s Māori heritage and the natural environment. The Cityscape Mural vividly depicts the importance of embracing different cultures in Tāmaki Makaurau. The mural incorporates elements of the area’s biodiversity, reflecting the rich environmental and cultural landscape of Te Tāngaroa. The students’ panel cleverly uses the poutama, a step-like pattern often seen in traditional Māori art. This pattern represents the three hapū of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei: Te Taou, Te Uringutu, and Nga Oho. The panel also features a flowing stream, referencing the local tributaries that once flowed into the Waitematā Harbour. A vibrant array of flowers from various countries symbolizes the diverse cultures that thrive in Auckland. The Cityscape Mural stands as a vibrant reminder of Auckland’s unique character, blending history, nature, and the contributions of people from all walks of life.