Published on 01 July 2026
The tunnel connecting the Forum North carpark to the Civic Arcade is set for a refresh to improve and revitalise this well-used public space leading through to Bank Street.
Stage one of the work is soon to get underway with contractors removing old seal in each of the tunnel's seven jointed sections. New seal material is to be injected into the joints and painted over to address waterproofing issues.
To minimise disruption, this work will take place over several weeknights. The tunnel will remain open and accessible during the day for the Civic Arcade businesses and pedestrians.
Sadly, the existing tunnel mural, while much loved by the community, has reached the end of its lifespan and now needs to be replaced.
Painted in 2009 by Justin Downes and John Wright, it features local scenes of Whangārei Heads and the Hen and Chickens Islands with poetry by Hone Tuwhare and local poet Piet Neuwland.
A new tunnel mural will be painted once the waterproofing repairs are complete. The artists and the design work for this are still to be finalised.
Council Venues and Events Manager Bea Mossop said the project presents an exciting opportunity to enhance the space.
“This is a great opportunity to beautify a well-used public space with a new public artwork that reflects our community and brings fresh energy to the Civic Arcade,” she said.
See the project page for details