Kāhui St David’s, a music centre in central Auckland, has announced a new art project featuring New Zealand Māori artist Peata Larkin.
Larkin, whose 3,360m² artwork decorates the New Zealand International Convention Centre opening in February, has created a new series of four artworks.
The works are silkscreen on brass and represent the four elements: earth, air, fire and water. They will be unveiled and available for sale on December 1.
Art is the way
Proceeds from the artworks will help Kāhui St David’s music centre operate for the next two years, bridging a funding gap caused by New Zealand’s economic recession and limited arts funding.
The artworks, titled Aumārire_Harmony, will be unveiled at a musical event featuring emerging star Hina, Auckland Choral and Kāhui St David’s pipe organ.
“It’s a celebration of art, music and Christmas – and a shout-out for help” says Paul Baragwanath, director of the Kāhui St David’s charitable trust.
“We are down to our last dollars. The environment is tough, and the art is a way for New Zealanders to support and purchase an outstanding artwork that will become part of New Zealand art history.
“Peata Larkin is a standout contemporary New Zealand artist whose work is unique, visually beautiful and deeply grounded in her Māori heritage. Her generosity in creating this artwork is inspiring – and we hope it will inspire others to also open their hearts and support the cause,” Baragwanath adds.
A centre for music, memory and connection
Kāhui St David’s – formerly the historic St David’s Presbyterian Church – has been restored and transformed into a space for music, creativity and human connection.
Built in 1927 as The Soldiers’ Memorial Church, it stands as a living memorial to New Zealanders who served in war.
While it no longer functions as a traditional church, Kāhui St David’s has become a multi-faceted event venue with exceptional acoustics, a 1905 Croft pipe organ and a rich history of community use. It hosts a range of events and music-based programmes for the community, from music concerts and wearable arts shows to weddings and remembrance ceremonies.
The centre also houses the Royal New Zealand Engineers, the 28th Māori Battalion and the NZ Army Nursing Corps. Its Lamp of Remembrance – the only one of its kind in New Zealand – honours all current and former Defence Force members.
Facing tough times
Despite its success and popularity, Kāhui St David’s faces major financial pressures. Rising insurance alone costs $50,000 per year and post-pandemic economic challenges have reduced charitable giving.
Baragwanath says the goal is simple: to keep the doors open and the music playing until the recession passes.
“Our kaupapa is to honour those who serve, and to create a space where people can connect through music and the performing arts. Peata’s generosity and exceptional artwork gives New Zealand a chance to keep open the doors of this music centre and living memorial.”
Event details
Art Opening: Peata Larkin, Aumārire_Harmony
When: Monday, December 1, 2025, at 7pm
Where: Kāhui St David’s, 70 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, Auckland
