A striking new mural in central Tauranga is turning back the clock, capturing a moment from the city’s earliest days and honouring the people who helped shape it.

Painted by multi-disciplinary artist Graham Hoete, the large-scale artwork at Aspen Reserve on the corner of Willow and McLean streets is a reproduction of a historical photograph from the 1880s.

The image shows two Māori men working to form what is now Willow St – one seated in a horse-drawn cart, the other standing with a wheelbarrow and spade, a small dog by his side.

Local historian Buddy Mikaere said the men were members of Ngāi Tamarāwaho hapū of Ngāti Ranginui and were among those who carried out major infrastructure work in early Tauranga.

“One of the men is Matiu Tu Teau. They’re basically making Willow St,” Mikaere said.

“These are the same men who worked on cutting through the area by where Trinity Wharf is today, helping create space for the railway line and contributing to the reclamation along The Strand and Chapel Street.”

Willow Street, Tauranga, looking southeast, in about 1880. The aspen tree can be seen in the centre. Photo / Tauranga City Library Collection

The work, done largely by hand with horse and cart, played a key role in shaping Tauranga’s early transport routes and waterfront.

Mikaere, who suggested the mural concept to council, said the image was chosen for its direct connection to the site. “I knew that photograph existed, and it’s just about where the reserve is, so it felt really appropriate.”

The mural forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance Aspen Reserve, a small inner-city park with deep historical roots. Plans for the space include carved pou (pillars), improved seating and the potential for a small performance area for events such as jazz concerts.

Preserving, sharing

Hoete said the project was an opportunity to explore Tauranga’s layered history while respecting the original photographer. “It’s not about making it a ‘Mr G’ artwork,” he said. “It’s about preserving and sharing that moment in time.”

Working from an archival image sourced through the Tauranga Library, Hoete completed the mural in just under four days, carefully balancing artistic interpretation with historical accuracy.

A photo taken from approximately where the original photo was taken, showing the changes. Photo / Kelly O'Hara

“The original photo was quite blurry, so it was a challenge,” he said. “I tried to stay true to what I could see and not over-interpret it.”

For Hoete, the mural is part of a broader commitment to telling local stories through public art.

“It’s about keeping those conversations alive – the good, the bad, and everything in between.”

Aspen Reserve itself sits on land significant to both Māori and early Pākehā settlement, once part of a large, cultivated area. The reserve has held small community events, and discussions around its redevelopment were held in 2017 as part of Tauranga City Council’s Heart of the City programme, aimed at revitalising the CBD.

A blessing for Aspen Reserve is planned for 9am, May 11, taking place ahead of further enhancements to the site.