Giant mural honours hip hop mentor

Graffiti artist Askew puts the final touches to the mural honouring the late Phil Fuemana. Picture / Kenny Rodger

A man who dedicated his life to fostering hip hop talent among young Polynesian and Maori artists has had a giant mural painted in his honour.

The mural is a tribute to Phil Fuemana and was painted by graffiti artist Askew.

It was commissioned by friend and musician Matt Ruys. "Phil was a very important part of the Otara community and his passing is a huge loss," he said.

Born in 1964, Mr Fuemana died of a heart attack last month. He was probably best known as the man behind hip hop label Urban Pasifika Records, which launched the career of his brother Pauly, whose "How Bizarre" hit made it to number one in eight countries.

Mr Ruys said the wall-sized mural had attracted a lot of attention and it was fitting it adorned the Otara Music and Arts Centre where Mr Fuemana had spent so much of his time encouraging young musicians.