Inner-City bus shelter blooms for Matariki

AUCKLAND, Today: Creative@AT and oOh!media have transformed an inner-city bus shelter to honour Tupuānuku, a star in the Matariki cluster.

The living bus shelter, adorned with hen and chicken fern seedlings, symbolises renewal and the nourishment of body and soul. It highlights Tupuānuku, the star linked to soil and planting.

Over two days, 150 seedlings were gifted to the public. These will grow into edible pikopiko for future Matariki celebrations.

Located on Customs Street East, the shelter was a collaborative effort by Creative@AT and AT’s Māori Outcomes team, encouraging everyone to plant and grow pikopiko.

“We are hoping to raise awareness of the many aspects of Matariki, acknowledging our ancestors and looking to the future. Planting and nourishing a seedling teaches us about the cycle of life but also will provide an important source of food for the body and soul,” says Lillian Tahuri, Head of Māori Outcomes, AT.

“It’s been a real pleasure learning in-depth about Matariki and the significance of the star cluster in traditional Māori culture.” – Chris Swift

Chris Swift, Creative Director at Creative@AT, expressed, “It’s been a real pleasure learning in-depth about Matariki and the significance of the star cluster in traditional Māori culture. It’s an honour to bring this creative concept to life and give back to our community.”

oOh!media generously provided advertising space, with valuable consultation and seedlings sourced by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei.

“We value the partnership we have with Auckland Transport and are very pleased to be able to collaborate with them to celebrate Matariki. This significant occasion is all about uniting communities to honour our past and look forward to a bright future.

“Our activation provides a unique and meaningful way to connect with and engage commuters in Tamaki Makaurau, bringing the spirit of Matariki to life,” says Nick Vile, General Manager, oOh!media NZ.

If you received a seedling, please plant it and look to the stars as a sign of respect and remembrance this Matariki.

Mānawatia a Matariki from Auckland Transport and oOh!media.