Nature Shed Goes Wild

The importance of biodiversity in our everyday lives has been captured by a vibrant mural which will be on display at the A&P show

The mural has been painted on the Nature Shed, formerly the home of the  Acclimatisation Society. 

Hawke’s Bay artist Cinzah Merkens created the mural, titled “Te Kaitiaki” featuring  native creatures -  a tuna (eel), a ruru (morepork, native owl), a tūī and kawakawa  moth.  Cinzah has also been involved in the organisation and painting of the Sea Walls: Artists for Ocean murals across Napier.

Inside the Nature Shed, a small, but exciting world will unfold during Show Week highlighting the biodiversity value of farmland with the theme - Ko Tū koe, ko Rongo koe,  farming with nature. 

 “Many species can thrive on farmland given the right conditions and we have lots of information on practical ways farmers and local communities can help biodiversity flourish in their area.” Says Natalie de Burgh, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council.  “We will also have lots of fun activities for kids, including holding wētā, watching geckos, tuna/eels and kōaro, triggering a trap, water quality testing and sifting through leaf litter to find out what likes living there. 

Fresh native plantings and a boardwalk are also new additions,adding to the native planting behind the shed, which was planted by Mahora school children “We’re looking forward to seeing lots of people visit the Nature Shed, and discover more about what everyone can do to enhance biodiversity in our everyday lives” says Miss de Burgh

“And please take a photo of yourself patting one of the mural creatures for a fun way to share your biodiversity message!”

3 September 2019

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