Street art
Cracked Ink
Nelson Tasman's street art scene is vibrant and diverse. The murals and installations reflect our rich cultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit.
Artist: Chris Finlayson
Location: Wakefield Quay
The Aotearoa mural on the waterfront has become somewhat of an icon, and a viewing platform nearby is the perfect place to observe this artwork in all it’s glory. The bold and beautiful mural was created by Chris Finlayson in 1984 on what was then an electricity building providing power to Nelson City. Showcasing some of New Zealand’s stunning natural landscapes, the mural is also bordered by a motif inspired by the carved ornamental panels from whare whakairo on marae throughout the country.
Artist: Nelson youth, Charles and Janine Williams
Location: Stoke
A soaring kākā against a sea of green illuminates the side of the basketball building in Stoke, but underneath the surface is an inspiring story of collaboration. Renowned artists Charles and Janine Williams worked with a group of Nelson youth to create this masterpiece, in which fourteen artworks created by the youth surround the bird’s wings to symbolise the collaboration and depict their individual stories.
Artist: Chris Finlayson
Location: Tākaka, Golden Bay
The Arohanui “lots of love” mural in Golden Bay speaks to the vibrant, welcoming and artistic spirit of the area. Created by Chris Finlayson, an artist based in Golden Bay, the mural also includes a series of art segments spray-painted by 28 pedestrians using a selection of ready-made stencils. Taking centre stage in the photographs of many locals and visitors, the mural attracts those from near and far looking to capture a memento from their time in the area.
Artist: Charles and Janine Williams
Location: Neale Park, Nelson City
This mural was produced by Charles and Janine Williams as part of a six-piece collaboration with Nelson City Council to brighten up unused spaces around the city, and it’s certainly done just that. The beautiful artwork on a building at the end of Sovereign Street portrays a tui sitting on a harakeke, with cabbage trees in the background to tie in with the natural surroundings of the Nelson Haven. This mural is easily accessible via a short stroll or bike ride from the city centre.
Artist: ROA
Location: 92 Collingwood Street, Nelson City
Street artist Roa is a muralist from Ghent, Belgium, whose work has often been recorded and photographed, but very little is known about the artist and even less is documented. Roa is primarily known for his intense obsession with animals and rodents. His murals often combine life, death, and life after death, distinguishing him from traditional muralists. His animals are painted to include skeletons and internal organs, making the sight even more realistic.
Artist: Chris Finlayson
Location: Upper Trafalgar Street, Nelson City
Chris Finlayson, born in Balclutha, lived in Nelson between 1982 and 1985 before settling in Takaka. This work from 2010 reflects the natural power of the giant palms in 1903 square, where the building rises. It creates a lush-looking oasis over four floors in this inner-city site.
Artist: Image Creators Signs & Design, Motueka
Location: 175 High Street, Motueka
Designed by a local graphics agency to showcase the rich commercial history of the Motueka area, this work unashamedly celebrates the horticultural industries and family names that have defined the local economy for generations.
Artist: Chris Finlayson
Location: 37 Commercial Street, Tākaka
Continuing with his commitment to themes of nature and the natural world, this was a community-inspired mural painted by over 40 people, designed and finished by Chris Findlayson and River.