Spray Can Mural Painted in Three Days

In June 2024, the Birkenhead Parish Council was approached with a proposal for an exciting community project. Kae Condon of the Birkenhead Village Association asked us: “Would we be open to the painting of a community mural on our wall, as part of a beautifying the community environment?” “Yes, we would!”

 

The Birkenhead Methodist Church has a prominent position on the summit of Zion Hill in Birkenhead. With its illuminated cross it stands as a beacon on the hilltop at the entrance way to the Birkenhead Village precinct. The church is supported by a long concrete retaining wall that borders the traffic lights at the intersection of Birkenhead Ave and Onewa Rd.

 

Conversations were held and a concept was developed of a mural depicting the local bush and birds, with the sun rising on one side and the evening sky at the other end. It was painted in three days by Dunedin artist Claire Rye, assisted by Holly Rock from Auckland. They used spray cans in many colours to bring the mural to life. The mural was funded by the Birkenhead Village Association and the Kaipatiki Local Board, with manual labour to clear the wall and garden area coming from members of the combined Birkenhead English Speaking and Samoan Language Methodist Parishes.

 

The Meaning of the Mural - The mural depicts the new walking bridge erected in nearby Kauri Glen, a sign of bridges that bring people together. The golden sunrise is a sign of hope as each new day dawns. The flying kereru symbolises the presence of the Holy Spirit, hovering over our church and community. The tui (parson birds) eating berries is a sign of faith and sharing good news, and the ruru (owl) is a sign of wisdom and guidance in times of darkness. The waters of the stream and waterfall are for washing away of tears and burdens, emerging refreshed and renewed to love and serve others, under the leading of the starry Southern Cross. Further along, the piwakawaka, (fantails) play in the trees, symbolising people coming together in community and friendship. Finally, the kingfisher flies over the waters of fish, signifying the hope that the people in our community may have the resources they need to prosper and be fed.

 

The mural has created a lot of interest in the community, from passers-by in cars and on foot. It is a sign of new life and beauty to all who see it, and the Birkenhead parish are very proud to being able to share it with our community.