Mural Masterpieces - Ahipara School

Location:
Ahipara School, Main Road, Ahipara.

Team:
Charity Hohepa (design), Liam Collins, Joshua Davis, Beau Dickins, Shane Koland, John King, Luke Longerak, Reuben Putu, Thomas Vela, Peter Rangi, Kerrod Neho, Katen King, Elroy Pure, Kipene Rupapera, Darryl Smith, Grayson Te Paa, Daniel Tritscher, Jesse Anderson, Leisha Clark-Hobson, Emily Craghill, Briar Goodhue, Poanui Lee, Shana Peat, Katie Brasell, Danielle Morrogh, Nikita Williams. Co-ordinated by Andrea Panther.

Accessible to public:
Yes.

Mural theme:
Our Community.

Background to mural creation:
The mural was designed to create a stimulating environment in the new senior area that reflects the community. Fortunate to have new classrooms that had not been painted, they had a readymade perfect canvas for the mural creation. The classrooms are visible from the road enabling the wider community to enjoy the students' work. The team drew up a plan and gained Board of Trustees approval before commencing on the four month project that has had the community eagerly watching the progress as they pass by.

Students also created information brochures for the office foyer to explain what the mural represents and to act as a record of those involved in its creation.

The mural is based on elements important to Ahipara including Ninety-Mile Beach, the native bush and birdlife, seafood and a lizard that features in most local carvings. The black sunrays through the centre represent the Maori culture that exists in the community.