default-output-block.skip-main
Regional | Arts

Tame Iti's artwork continues despite some complaints

Tame Iti's art continues to flourish in the small township of Tāneatua in Eastern Bay of Plenty.  The local artist recently received complaints after painting over letter boxes belonging to NZ Post.

Tama Iti (Ngāi Tūhoe) says, “The majority of the people I have spoken to say that they love it.  Nobody had any concerns about the painting I did on the walls."

Police say no complaints were made.

However, they have spoken to Tame Iti and the owner of the post building regarding the incident.

But that hasn't stopped him from continuing painting the township.

Tame Iti says his art work reflects his Tūhoe roots which is why he wants to carry on throughout the township.

“The very essence of this is to lift the spirit of Tāneatua, and that of our ancestors to enable Tūhoe to move forward into the future,” said Tame Iti.

Iti says that his next project begins next Thursday, in which he will give the local gas station a face-lift.