KAUPAPA
KŌPŪ EXHIBITION
Kōpū Exhibition
TUKUA TE HAEATA
12 August—12 September 2025
Ko Kōpū te kaitō i te awatea
Kōpū precedes the dawn
Kōpū rises before the day breaks —a quiet signal that something is coming.
This exhibition occupies the same space;
A chance to pause at the edge of change.
A space to explore new ideas and opportunities.
A call to be part of what’s taking shape.
This space holds the first threads of that unfolding — ideas in motion, designs taking shape, the stirrings of a reimagined identity and place.
Here, you’re invited to wander, to listen, to respond.
To play with what’s emerging, to leave your mark.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Artist Information Sessions
We’re hosting three information hui for artists and practitioners of toi Māori who are interested in learning more about commissioning opportunities on Kōpū projects.
Learn how to register as an artist and hear about current opportunities, including a waka build for the new playspace, a projection partnership with Te Ramaroa and more.
We have opened up three sessions depending on people’s availability and what is best suited to you (IE, after work or during lunch).
Please register so we can provide kai.
SESSIONS
Tuesday 9th September
Morning Session
10:00—11:00am
Lunchtime Session
12:00—1:00pm
After Work Session
5:00—6:00pm
GROUP VISITS
Discovering Kōpū as a Group
A call to come look, to touch, to play, to create.
A space shaped by the story of Te Wheke a Muturangi - shared through concept design and a 3D model.
A warm welcome, a kōrero shared.
From here, the path opens into a self-guided journey.
A 3D model to explore and play with
An interactive card game of scenarios to spark ideas
A colouring-in competition by local illustrator Mat Tait
A photography wall celebrating the tamariki who shaped the vision
Crafty bits to literally shape your ideas for the space
Drop in. Try something new. Be part of what’s taking shape.
A note for organisers:
The Refinery welcomes spontaneous visits. For large groups and school groups, they also appreciate advance bookings, so they can dedicate time and attention to your group.
To schedule a time, please email The Refinery HERE.
GET INVOLVED
Colouring-in competition
Add your own style and colours to this Kupe illustration by local Māori artist Mat Tait.
There are several prizes to be won, including copies of Mat’s award-winning books and
Kōpū merch.
At the end of the exhibition on the 12th September, Mat will personally select and announce the prize winners.
Karawhiua! Give it heaps!
How to submit:
To submit your colouring-in entry, either drop it into The Refinery ArtSpace or email kiaora@odandco.nz their submission.
PLAYSPACE WHAKATŪ
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
We’re building something extraordinary — and we want you with us.
Whether you’re a creative, a community member, or a potential partner, there are many ways to engage.