Ngā Manu Nature Reserve officially unveiled its new Visitor Centre mural recently, celebrating a community collaboration that brought together local rangatahi, mana whenua, artists, Council representatives, and the wider community.
The striking mural, created by artist Theo Arraj, now welcomes visitors to Ngā Manu and reflects the Reserve’s connection to nature, conservation, storytelling, and the cultural significance of the whenua.
The project was initiated in late 2024 with support from Kāpiti Coast District Council and developed in partnership with the Kāpiti Youth Council, with guidance from Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai throughout the process.
Ngā Manu Trustee Pat Stuart said the mural was originally an idea from one of Ngā Manu’s valued volunteers. It was discussed for several years before becoming a reality through conversations between Ngā Manu General Manager Anna McKenzie Hawea and Council Advisory Trustee Morag Taimalietane.
“What emerged was much more than a mural,” she said. “It became a true community project — one that brought together different perspectives, creativity, conservation, and cultural storytelling to create something lasting for Ngā Manu and the wider Kāpiti community.”
Four artists were invited to develop concepts for the mural, with Theo Arraj selected for his bold and engaging design.
“Theo immediately understood the vision,” said Ngā Manu Manager Anna McKenzie Hawea. “His artwork captures the beauty and majesty of the natural world while honouring species that are deeply important to Ngā Manu and mana whenua.”
The mural prominently features tuatara and kākā, taonga species central to Ngā Manu’s conservation mahi. Following consultation and feedback during the design process, the artwork also incorporates three white feathers carried by a pīwakawaka/fantail — a symbol also key to Ngā Manu’s branding.
The mural was completed during the 2025 Kāpiti Arts Trail weekends, with Ngā Manu staff and volunteers also undertaking extensive landscaping and preparation works around the Visitor Centre to enhance the space.
Alongside the artwork, a new interpretive sign has been installed sharing the story of Ngā Manu, the mural, and its cultural and ecological significance in both English and te reo Māori. Ngā Manu acknowledged Ben Ngaia for translating the signage into te reo Māori.
Speakers at the opening ceremony reflected on the importance of honouring Ngā Manu founder Peter McKenzie, whose vision transformed the Reserve into a sanctuary for native wildlife and a place where people could connect with the natural world.
Ngā Manu extended thanks to everyone involved in bringing the project to life, including Kāpiti Coast District Council, Kāpiti Youth Council, Te Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai, Toi MAHARA, Theo Arraj, staff, volunteers, and the wider community.
For more on Nga Manu see: ngamanu.org.nz