Katikati Open Air Art
This amazing project was the Runner Up in the 2009 National "TrustPower Community Awards"...
Back in 1990 the population of Katikati was declining, there was a kiwifruit industry crisis, threat of a bypass, and 32 empty shops and offices - things were looking pretty dire for the town until a creative idea backed by the community put Katikati on the map as the "Mural Town" of New Zealand.
Katikati Open Air Art has proven that volunteers can make dramatic and enduring changes to the national image of a small provincial town. For 20 years the ever increasing number of volunteer-driven artworks have transformed Katikati from a 'rural' village to a vibrant tourist destination. This has created a point of different for the town and a real sense of community. The district population has increased from 6,000 to 8,000 and Katikati is now regarded by many as a very desirable place to live.
The artworks themselves have also provided a way of recording the town's unique Maori and Irish history in murals and sculptures for future generations. To date there more than 50 works of art - giving pleasure, free of charge to young and old. Most importantly the people of Katikati are proud to be part of a strong creative community with special character.
