Live Well Waihī Beach is inviting Bay of Plenty artists to be part of a meaningful new community project.

It aims to transform the recently opened accessible changing facility at Waihī Beach into a welcoming, uplifting and inspiring space through art.

Live Well Waihī Beach’s Cindy Clare said the facility was opened in partnership with the Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services Club in March.

“The facility was created to provide a dignified and supportive environment for people with disabilities, wheelchair users and individuals with severe illnesses to comfortably prepare for and enjoy time at the beach,” she said.

Shortly after it opened the facility was recognised by winning the Best Collaboration Award at the 2026 TECT Community Awards.

Colour, connection

Now, thanks to a $2130 grant from the Western Bay Creative Communities Scheme fund, Clare said Live Well Waihī Beach was launching a public mural competition to bring colour and connection to the facility.

“Located within the Lifeguard Services Club, the space is available year-round for free use by people with disabilities or complex needs,” she said.

“More than simply painting walls, the project aims to create an atmosphere that helps users feel calm and positively connected to the beach experience from the moment they arrive.

Clare said for some people using a changing facility or going to the beach can feel overwhelming or difficult.

“This mural is about creating a sense of belonging and comfort.”

The kaupapa behind the project centres on artists giving back to the community through their creativity – using art as a form of connection and therapy, she said.

“The mural will play an important role in helping people who may otherwise feel nervous or excluded feel more confident accessing the beach.”

Neurodiverse users

Artists living within the Bay of Plenty region are now invited to submit beach-inspired concepts that reflect the spirit of Waihī Beach, with themes such as Tuhua / Mayor Island encouraged.

Finlay Graham and mum Kimberly check out the changing facility at its opening. Photo / Supplied

Clare said designs should also carefully consider neurodiverse users, ensuring the colours and imagery remain calming and accessible.

Submissions will close mid-July, with a judging panel selecting a top three shortlist by mid-August.

The final concepts will then be shared with the local and accessible community for public voting before the winning artist is announced end of August.

“The completed mural is expected to be unveiled ahead of summer, around Labour Weekend 2026 – helping create a beautiful and inclusive space for all to enjoy,” Clare said.

For more information, or to enter the competition, email Clare at: hello@livewellwaihibeach.co.nz.