Open Air Art
Kāpiti attracts and inspires creativity, it's a magical combination of lifestyle, environment and the innovative people who move here. From traditional to cutting edge, soul-soothing to challenging, comfortable to provocative, Kāpiti artists create works that speak to all of us differently.
Publicly accessible art in Kāpiti is not limited to sculptures and installations, but also boasts a stunning array of mural art and beachside galleries.
Local artist Theo Arraj is particularly prolific in beautifying public spaces with his signature street art aesthetic.
- Arraj's mural Metamorphic revitalises the Kāpiti Lights complex (commissioned by KCDC). Accessible either from the Kāpiti Lights complex on Kāpiti Road or from the eastern side of Coastlands.
- The Waikanae River has two new Guardians, and they are turning motorists' heads along the old State Highway 1. Two morepork murals appeared on the pillars of the Waikanae Rail Bridge, north of Wellington, in April 2017. Brothers Theo and Leroi Arraj created the artworks using spray paint. The pair painted a third mural, a kingfisher, at the rail bridge's southern end on New Year's Day.
- A Huia on Huia St in Waikanae, also painted by Theo Arraj.
- A Tui on the side of the Kāpiti Law building in Waikanae, painted by Theo Arraj.
Read about Theo's other works and find a map to visit them all here: Theo Arraj - Street Artist
Mahara Place in Waikanae has recently been graced with stunning new artwork. Kate Hartmann and Ruth Robertson-Taylor produced a mural based on textile patterns of internationally renowned artist Frances Hodgkins. The representation, on the wall outside the entrance to the former Waikanae library, is a large Instagram image of Hodgkins based on a well-known photo from the 1920s but re-imagined for modern times.
CJ's Seafood, also in Waikanae, brings a slice of coastal estuary life to the Main road with the scene painted by Dan Mills onto the South facing wall of the building.
Kāpiti Coast Arts Trail - Te Ara Toi o te Takutai Kāpiti
Every November the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail surprises and delights with a wonderland of artist studios, galleries and shared spaces.
The Trail is a self-guided tour of discovery, an expedition to share with friends. Take a leisurely stroll through coastal gardens and arty enclaves. Be welcomed by artists and be inspired by their work.
Plan your visit now and discover something special on the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail.
Bring your friends. Escape for the weekend. Wonder awaits...