Mr G paints new mural at Pāpāmoa primary

Pāpāmoa artist Graeme "Mr G" Hoete has painted a mural depicting the local history at Papamoa Primary School.

Pupils watched on as Hoete painted the walls near the school's entrance yesterday, stopping him often to get autographs and take selfies with the artist.

Hoete said he felt privileged to have been invited to paint a mural at the Pāpāmoa school and happily took time out of his busy schedule to finish it.

He said he had painted murals at local schools before, but this one was special to the Pāpāmoa artist.

"The kids are so cool. You paint a dot and they buzz out. It is a great opportunity for me to do my thing and I am hopeful it will encourage and inspire them. That is how I started, by watching my brother paint."

Mr G stopped to sign autographs and take selfies with the pupils. Pictured: Bella Flavell, 5, gets her cast signed. Photo / George Novak

Hoete said the mural has been separated into four quarters depicting Pāpāmoa's history and includes the Papamoa Hills, harakeke (flax), Pāpāmoa Beach and koru representing the four waka that have connections to the area.

For the final quarter, Hoete will paint a portrait of a pupil, who will represent the school's past, present and future children.

"For me, this is the fulfilment side of what I do," he said. "This is what makes it special."

Mr G with Anneke Koning, 10, who Mr G will use to help paint the face of a pupil who will represent the school's past, present and future. Photo / George Novak

Papamoa Primary School principal Phil Friar said the mural will be a special addition to the school.

"It is a visual representation of our heart, our culture, our history and our being."