The community gathered last week to celebrate the transformation of the space – once a plain and underlit thoroughfare – into a vibrant walkway brought to life by Mount Maunganui Intermediate students. Their hand-painted triptych panels, featuring flora and fauna, now line the fences at either end of the alleyway, creating a visual journey that reflects the local environment and youthful imagination.
Arataki Ward Councillor Rick Curach attended the celebration and describes the artwork as a testament to the power of community collaboration.
“This project shows what happens when we give young people the opportunity to shape their surroundings. The artwork is not only beautiful – it’s meaningful, and it brings a sense of identity and pride to this space,” says Rick.
Mount Maunganui Intermediate Year 8 student Zoey Stols, one of the artists behind the panels, says the project was a chance to make a lasting impact.
“We wanted the alleyway to be more welcoming and fun. Painting the birds and animals was a way to show what makes our area special. It’s awesome seeing our work up on the fences,” says Zoey.
The upgrades to the Leander–Farm Street alleyway include a smoother pathway, fence repairs, and new lighting. A pedestrian connection has also been created next to the bus hub, linking Farm Street to Bayfair Shopping Centre.
Resene supplied the fence and artwork paint for the alleyway, while Bayfair contributed to the alleyway improvements and the newly reopened pedestrian access at the bus stop – both helping make this project happen.
“Supporting this initiative reflects Bayfair’s commitment to our community. We’re proud to help create safer, more accessible connections for our neighbours and be part of this project,” says Centre Manager, Bayfair Shopping Centre, Steve Ellingford.
The upgrades are already making a difference, making it safer and easier for people to move around – especially for children, older residents, and those with mobility needs.
Further improvements along Farm Street, including widened footpaths, improved street lighting and kerb ramps, and a new raised pedestrian crossing replacing the existing speed bump, will be completed in early 2026. letstalk.tauranga.govt/farm-street-improvements