Waitara community mural

A large plain wall neighbouring our Waitara West substation in Taranaki and the Mahia Mai A Whai Tara community centre has been transformed from dreary to dynamic thanks to funding from our Artwork on Assets programme to create a mural.

The mural is a visual history of Mahia Mai A Whai Tara and Waitara thanks to Waitara born artist, Vallance Wrathall. Vallance spent time delving into the history of the group and the wider area with local kaumatua and transformed their oral recollections into a colourful and symbolic mural that tells a story as it unfolds across the wall.

The mural not only reflects the rich heritage of the area and essence of the group, but it also brightens the entrance to, and outlook, from the popular community centre.
Mahia Mai A Whai Tara Kaiwhakahaere, Facility, Engagement and Experience Manager Che Tamati, who spoke at an event to celebrate the completion of the new mural, said the artwork brings back the sparkle that the building and surrounds deserves.

Powerco has previously collaborated with the community centre leasing part of the centre’s carpark last year to provide access for heavy equipment during the Waitara West substation upgrade. 

“Thanks to Powerco’s generous support that allows us to express our past and create a visual narrative,” says Audra Potaka who spoke on behalf of artist Vallance Wrathall at the celebration event.