Katikati – mural town
Every town and settlement in New Zealand has its history. Together, they form the story of our people, of Maori and Pakeha. In Katikati you can see that history everyday, not in a gallery or a museum, but by walking down the main street.

The region's first settlers were early Maori voyagers, first Ngaiterangi and then Ngati Ranginui. Their descendants still live in the three marae of Te Rereatukahia, Tahawai and Otawhiwhi.

In 1875 George Vesey Stewart brought the first party of Irish settlers to Katikati, the only planned Ulster settlement in the world. 34 families cleared the land, planted crops, and built their homes. A second party arrived in 1878, giving a total of 600 settlers.

Katikati Open-Air Art Inc. was formed, and is responsible for the many murals, sculptures, carvings and weaving in the town.

Every second year Katikati holds a mural festival.  Winners from the 2008 festival, proudly supported by Resene, were:

The 2006 winner - painted by Chris Finlayson

People's Choice winner 2006 - painted by Roy Cunliffe

Spirit of Katikati Award 2006 - painted by Monika Welch

All murals were painted in Resene Lumbersider, a popular choice for muralists.

View more murals and find out about the Katikati Mural Contest and Art Festival on the Katikati Murals website.