A special 70th anniversary mural has been celebrated anew in Pukekohe recently.
Pupils from Pukekohe Central Kindergarten gathered in the Franklin Arts Centre in June to see their kindy’s commemorative mural as part of the foyer exhibition.
While the exhibition has now ended, the mural is proudly on permanent display at Pukekohe Central Kindergarten.
Opened on 13 March 1954, Pukekohe Central Kindergarten held its 70th Anniversary celebration last March. Celebrations began with the blessing of Pukekohe Central Kindergarten’s painted mural. Pukekohe High School sponsored the paint and required equipment, and art teacher Catherine Tamihere worked alongside her students to develop the idea.
This was done in consultation with kuia from the local area and is based on a Māori Myth, about the Mauri of Pukekohe.
The mural initiatives are to enhance Pukekohe town through art while also recognising community identity and shaping a narrative that celebrates the area’s history.
The school made special mention of Christine Butler, Catherine Tamihere (art teacher), Tyler Poa, Jade Bolton, Kayleen Barnard (Pukekohe High School Students) and Whaea Jade Chamberlain (Māori teacher) for bringing this important project to life and commemorating the milestone for the kindergarten and community.
