Te Oranga

The Te Oranga Street Art Project was an a community event involving selected youth and local artists led by Earnest Bradley , Memory Lane Tattoo Studio, with help from the Whangārei District Council. Three works of art were created, each wall was inspired by the concept of 'Te Oranga' meaning 'wellness'. 

Bradley completed this mural in three days with the help of Bay of Islands College student 15-year-old Mike Martin, who was chosen from a number of applicants. 

The mural is of 6-year-old Common Ruka, of Whangārei. Bradley said the meaning behind the painting of the cheeky youngster was the innocence of children, or tamariki.  "Everything he is touching he is feeling it 100 per cent. If you are not feeling 100 per cent you can't give back 100 per cent." 

These works are located at 62 Walton Street, 37 Hannah Street and 8 Commerce Street. "They are pretty impressive and definitely not small. It all adds to the feel around Whangārei" Bradley said.