Highbury smoke free inspired mural becomes the largest in the city

A collaborative effort involving the community, numerous organisations, local artists and Palmerston North City Council has resulted in the creation of Palmerston North’s largest mural. The mural is approximately 204 square meters and features on the side of the Highbury Whanau Centre.

The mural symbolises what smoke free means to the Highbury community and is a symbol of community engagement and pride, championing the importance of a smoke free future. Named ‘He Pou Tuatoru o Highbury’ the artwork aligns with the belief that in New Zealand, Tangata Whenua (people of this land) have the indisputable right to Orietanga (equity in health and equality).

“We wanted to engage with our community in a meaningful way and enable them to contribute to the conversation,” Community Groups Advisor Pascal Francois says. The question “What does a smoke free world look like?” was posed to the Highbury Community. Depictions of flowers, birds and fresh air were common themes that came through.

Local artists Gemma Farrell (aka Gembol) and Ephraim Russell used the drawings as a source of inspiration to create the mural. The mural was funded by PNCC Creative Communities Fund, Smokefree Reference Group and PNCC Placemaking Initiative.

An official blessing and unveiling of the mural is being held on Sunday 11 February at the Highbury Whanau Centre.

Programme line-up:

· 10:45 am: Blessing of mural by Rangitane representative Wiremu Te Awe Awe

· 11 am: Unveiling of the plaque followed by speeches from Mayor and representatives of DHB, Highbury Whanau Centre and Te Wakahuia.

· 11:15 – 3pm: Summer Social Concert featuring local and national acts, followed by a community touch rugby tournament.

* The Smokefree Reference Group was created under the Smokefree Outdoor Areas Policy which Council adopted in 2013. The purpose of the reference group is to monitor the implementation of the policy, and its impact on the community.

The group includes representatives from Council, Horizons, Heart Foundation, MidCentral Public Health and the Cancer Society.

Ends

© Scoop Media