New Pipiwai public loos open for business

Published on 15 October 2025

Students of Te Horo School and muralist Earnest Bradley pose in front of the new Pipiwai public toilet block.  

A vibrant new toilet block has been completed in the heart of Pipiwai with help from senior students at the neighbouring Te Horo School. 

The two-pan block with an accessible cubical on Pipiwai Road was advocated for by the local community. It features a mural, co-designed by local muralist Earnest Bradley and students to capture the spirit of the Pipiwai valley.

Students were given examples of mural work to spark their imagination and encouraged to think about what made Pipiwai special to them, including the land, river, birds and stories. 

They created their own designs, which Earnest skilfully wove together, incorporating the Ngāti Hine logo in the background, paying homage to its people. 

Various motifs, including the koru, puhoro and mangōpare, reflect themes of growth, new beginnings, strength, determination, speed, swiftness and agility, particularly in relation to the tuna (eel). 

Te Horo School Principal Sandra Toapuho said that giving the students a voice in the process motivated them to follow the project’s development and will hopefully encourage them to take ownership and protect the artwork. 

Locals and visitors to Pipiwai can now take advantage of the convenience provided by the new loos, while enjoying the unique mural, which celebrates the energy, stories and spirit of the valley, as seen through the eyes of its tamariki.