Unitec’s Rainbow and Ally Network have partnered with students from the School of Creative Industries to transform the Rainbow Room at Te Puna, Mt Albert Campus, into an inclusive, safe space for all.
The Bachelor of Design and Contemporary Art – Year 3 Contemporary Art tauira involved in this project were: Tevin Wharepouri, Anne Ah Sam, Samantha Waddell, Louise Evans and Li Fan.
Their amazing work drew praise from Unitec Wellbeing & Safety Advisor, Maree Lightfoot.
“The Rainbow and Ally Network thought it would be great to make our Rainbow Room more visible, so decided on a rainbow wall mural,” said Maree, on behalf of the network.
“We are so grateful to Peeti Lamwilai and his wonderful ākonga, who designed and painted the wall.
The Rainbow Room is a space where our LGBTQI+ ākonga and kaimahi can come to connect and feel safe and where we will hold events. However, the space is not exclusively for rainbow whānau – everyone is welcome!”
Creative Industries Academic Programme Manager for Design & Contemporary Art, Peeti Lamwilai, thanked the Rainbow and Ally Network for the opportunity to showcase the talent of their tauira and contribute to an important campus initiative.
“A huge thank you to Maree Lightfoot and the Unitec Rainbow and Ally Network for this incredible opportunity,” said Peeti. “A big shout out as well to our talented tauira who dedicated their time, skills, and aroha into this project. Their mahi, creativity, and commitment to fostering our community through the arts is greatly appreciated.”
The creation of the mural helps mark Pride month where events celebrating and empowering our Takatāpui and Rainbow Communities are held throughout the region.
It looks great and has transformed that space. Thanks to the team who painted it!
Massive thanks also to the Maintenance Team for removing everything from the wall, plastering, sanding and painting the wall in preparation for the rainbow painting. Thanks also for mounting the TV on the wall afterwards. The Maintenance Team have been working progressively on this wall since November 2024.
Signed,
The Maintenance Team.