Te Ara I Whiti

Te Ara i Whiti explores a journey of legacy, showcased through contemporary Māori art.

This enchanting multi-media installation of light sculptures, projections and artworks celebrates our connection to place. Whether the first rays on Hikurangi or the creative genius of Rukupō – the broad expanse of our region is famed for our special relationship to light. Te Ara i Whiti is a celebration of that whakapapa. 

This year the trail is set to breathe life into Te Tairāwhiti once more, with guest curation by multi-disciplinary artist and curator, educator and practitioner ― Melanie Tangaere Baldwin and created by artists connected to our rohe. With the support of award-winning lighting designer Angus Muir, a swathe of spectacular illuminated surprises, large-scale sculptural installations, and projections await those looking for a provocative, playful and whānau-focused evening out. 

Exhibiting artists for 2021 include Chevron Hassett, Erena Koopu, Fiona Collis, George Watson, Huia Edmonds & Ngaire Tuhua, James Tapsell-Kururangi, Johnny Moetara, Maungarongo (Ron) Tekawa, Steve Gibbs, Taupuruariki (Ariki) Whakataka Brightwell, Tāwera Tahuri, and Terangi Roimata Kutia-Tataurangi.

To ensure that we can keep everyone safe, we will be implementing the following Covid protocols:

• At Te Pūtahi and Te Ara i Whiti, guests will need to queue and sign in at the gate, keep a distance of 1m and are encouraged to wear a mask to enter.
• If you arrive and the festival space is already at capacity, our crew will give you a token and let you know when you can come back for entry.
• We will not have kai or drinks available for sale at Te Ara i Whiti or Te Pūtahi.
• If you are sick, please stay home.

Join the exhibiting artists of Te Ara i Whiti 2021 for discussion of their works – please register to help manage numbers and COVID tracing:

• Tairāwhiti Museum |  SAT 9 OCT – 5PM
• Change of Venue – Tairāwhiti Museum | SAT 16 OCT – 5PM