In April 2025, at the nexus where the Northwestern Cycleway meets Te Whau Pathway, Auckland-based artist Margarita Vovna transformed a series of piles into a celebration of the Whau’s native ecology.
Her design includes symbolic references to both established and newly planted native flora—such as Mānuka, pōhutukawa, whau flowers, toetoe, and tuna (eels)—highlighting ecological restoration efforts and reflecting key elements of the Te Whau River’s ecosystem.
“Te Whau was my inspiration, with particular focus on the natural elements,” Margarita explains. “I really enjoy painting plants and flowers—especially when they relate to a place or help with storytelling.”
To ensure the murals endures in the outdoor environment, the Tag Out Trust applied a protective seal over the finished artwork.
In harmony with the landscape
Margarita designed the mural to integrate visually and conceptually with its surroundings, using an earthy palette with bright floral accents.
“I wanted to make something that was reflective and in harmony with its surroundings, yet stood out,” she says. “Most of the detail is centred around the front of the piles, spreading outward with larger plant shapes placed further away.”
The palette also mirrors the ever-changing colours of the awa: “Te Whau can change colour depending on the light. On a sunny day, it reflects a more blue tone, which plays beautifully off the background blue used on these piles.”
A physical challenge
Creating the mural wasn’t without challenges. Margarita was painting in a construction site. She also had the daily setup on sloped, uneven ground.
“It was definitely one of the trickier sites I’ve worked with. I had to carry gear down to the piles every day, secure a heavy ladder with strops, and manage everything under the hot summer sun.”
Despite the physical demands, she embraced the learning opportunity:
“I learned so much during this project—things I hadn’t known about the ecosystem surrounding Te Whau and the awa itself.”
A quiet invitation to look closer
Margarita hopes the mural doesn’t just decorate the path—but sparks curiosity.
“My artwork is a simplified version of so much that goes on there. I hope people can get curious about some of the plants featured and what role they play.”
More of Margarita Vovna’s art in public places
In addition to Te Whau, Margarita’s other contributions across Auckland include:
- Sylvia Park: A lush floral mural featuring native and exotic species
- Victoria Street West: A Japanese-inspired mural rich in colour and detail
Through all her work, Margarita continues to make Auckland’s shared spaces more engaging, reflective, and connected to nature.