New home for Te Wai-Māpihi mural by Ariki Brightwell

The mural was originally designed to connect the community to the whakapapa and mana whenua history of the land. At Te Wāhi Āwhina, it was the first thing your eye was drawn to, and it became a big part of the identity of the space. 

Ariki’s mural tells the story of Te Wai-Māpihi, also known as Te Aro stream, the sacred awa that passes through Manners Street, near the old spot for Te Wāhi Āwhina and DCM, and out into Te Whanganui-a-Tara.  

The name of the awa originates from te iwi who lived in the area, Ngāi Tara and Ngāti Mamoe after their Chieftainess, Māpihi, who used to bathe in the awa. Wai-Māpihi translates to the bathing place of Māpihi.  

The artwork provides context about the length of the awa, hidden underneath Wellington, explains Ariki. 

“The patterning across the top of the painting represents the many awa (now culverted) that ran through centrally located pā sites in Pōneke. The red strand to the left represents the Waitohi Stream that runs from Johnsonville to Ngāuranga – the gateway between Pōneke and Porirua.  

“The Waitohi mouth was also the residence of Te Āti Awa Chief, Te Wharepouri. Extending from the red strand and held by Māpihi are kawakawa branches referencing Waitohi and the healing and cleansing properties of kawakawa and te awa.”  

All artwork that Ariki creates is homage to her culture, she says.  

“All my murals depict our history as Māori. I thought it was appropriate to depict Māpihi in the area where she used to bathe.  

“Wai for us is healing, and when I originally painted the mural for Te Wāhi Āwhina, I knew the purpose of the space and what it had to deal with and encounter. Everything in the mural is based around the environment, history, pūrākau, kawakawa, iwi and healing in Māori culture – medicinal and spiritual. It really was for the staff and people who needed help.” 

Ariki chose for the mural to be passed on to DCM, as their kaupapa is similar to what Te Wāhi Āwhina provided.  

“They did a great job moving it. When I went to examine it, it was flawless and only needed a couple of touch ups.  

“I’m glad it’s in a space that continues to work for the people. While the painting is not visible for the public, it’s been installed in a corridor where the staff go to catch their breath and take a moment. 

“The mana and presence of the mural turned painting hasn’t changed at all.” 

DCM aim to provide a range of comprehensive services to those in need, explains Fundraising and Communications Manager Kara Sage.  

“We provide support to people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, many of whom face multiple challenges. We are the only organisation in Wellington with an assertive outreach team, out on the streets every day, actively engaging and connecting with those sleeping rough. 

“We have a dedicated Housing First team supporting people into permanent homes. Our free healthcare wing offers physio, nurse practitioner appointments, dental care, and counselling, including harm reduction groups and one-on-one support. We also provide a food bank and a safe community space. Our building hosts visits from other organisations, ensuring people can access essential services in one place. We like to think of ourselves as hub for the people.” 

DCM’s Director Stephen Turnock is grateful to have the painting at DCM. 

 “We’re honoured to receive Ariki Brightwell’s ‘Te Wai-Māpihi’ at DCM. This artwork carries the history of Te Aro Park and the awa that once flowed through here, connecting us to the stories of this place.  

“It’s a privilege to have it remain in Te Aro, and we’re so grateful to Ariki and Wellington City Council for this taonga. It will be treasured by all who come through our doors.”