Auckland has unveiled a new public artwork inspired by the Tiaki Promise, an initiative that encourages all visitors and residents to act as guardians of Aotearoa New Zealand.

The work is intended to welcome international visitors to Aotearoa ahead of TRENZ 2026, the country’s largest international tourism business event.

The large-scale mural sits next to the newly opened New Zealand International Convention Centre and will greet more than 1,200 travel buyers, media and tourism leaders gathering in Auckland from May 18.

A lasting legacy

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited head of tourism Karen Thompson-Smith says the artwork represents both a welcome to the world and a lasting legacy for the city. 

“As Auckland hosts the global tourism industry for TRENZ for the first time in almost a decade, this mural reflects the values we want visitors to experience when they arrive here – care for people, care for place and respect for culture. 

“There’s a real momentum in Auckland at the moment, especially in the city centre, where new public spaces and events are bringing a renewed energy.  

“We want people to take a fresh look at Auckland and experience the unique mix of culture, urban life and natural beauty that defines this place,” Thompson-Smith adds.

Reflection and responsibility

The mural is a collaborative initiative delivered by Auckland Council and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited in partnership with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and Tiaki partners including Tourism New Zealand, Tourism Industry Aotearoa and the Department of Conservation. 

Developed by creative lead Anzac Tasker in collaboration with artists Kereama Taepa and Poi Ngawati and the team at Guardians – Ahiauaha, the work transforms the principles of the Tiaki Promise into a permanent public expression of care, guardianship and connection to place.  

Anzac Tasker says the mural is designed to inspire reflection and shared responsibility. 

“Tiaki embodies the responsibility we each hold to care for our home every day. This mural serves as both a visual statement and a call to action – inviting domestic and international visitors alike to move through this place with the mindset of guardians. 

“It reflects a shared set of values rooted in protection, respect and belonging, and now stands prominently in the heart of New Zealand’s largest city, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland,” says Tasker.

A warm welcome

Tourism New Zealand general manager, Māori leadership Karl Burrows says making sure the Tiaki Promise shows up all across New Zealand is an important way to get the attention of visitors throughout their journey. 

“The Tiaki Promise is a kaupapa for all of the industry to embrace and share with our visitors, it’s great to see it take pride of place in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.  

“This mural is a beautiful and enduring expression of the principles to care for and protect New Zealand, and we hope locals and visitors alike will take notice and share this piece of public art far and wide.” 

Beyond TRENZ 2026, the mural will remain a permanent addition to Auckland’s public art landscape and feature in Te Paparahi Toi Māori, the Auckland Art Walk guide showcasing Māori culture and history through public spaces across the city.