The Vacant Spaces Pop-up Gallery: Ngā Taonga o Te Wao Nui ā Tiriwa

Ngā Taonga o Te Wao Nui ā Tiriwa
(The Treasures of the Great Forest of Tiriwa)

This vibrant billboard by West Auckland-based artist Penny Howard (Te Mahurehure, Ngāpuhi, Celtic) brings the wild magic of the Waitākere Ranges directly into Te Kōpua (Henderson).

Blending traditional kōwhaiwhai patterns with her signature design style, the artwork celebrates the rich variety of life found in the great forest of Tiriwa. Look closely to find the local inhabitants hidden among the native flowers—including the iconic kererū, the ancient pūpūrangi (kauri snail), the delicate kahukura butterfly, a native gecko moko kākāriki and the striking werewere-kōkako (blue mushroom).

Designed by Penny, who works and teaches nearby at the Corban Estate Arts Centre, this installation injects a joyful burst of identity, culture, and rich color into our everyday Henderson environment.

The Vacant Spaces Pop-Up Gallery is brought to you by Auckland Urban Development Office and Corban Estate Arts Centre, and is part of the Henderson town centre revitalisation project. This inspiring project invites artists to reimagine vacant spaces and shop windows, turning them into vibrant temporary art installations that reflect the rich creative spirit of the community, transform everyday space, and make art accessible to everyone.