The upcoming Paradox: Tauranga Street Art Festival will see a line-up change with Lithuanian-born artist Ernest Zacharevic withdrawing due to personal reasons.

Paradox festival artistic director George Shaw says stepping in to fill the gap is one of the world's finest muralists, Sydney based artist Fintan Magee, who they've wanted to work with for years.

'He was one of the first artists that we contacted for Paradox back in August. Unfortunately he was working in some far flung place and we couldn't track him down.

'It's obviously sad that Ernest had to withdraw but by then Fintan was back on the radar, so we finally get to work with him and we know that his distinctive style will light up Tauranga.”

Paradox: Tauranga Street Art Festival is being developed by Tauranga City Council in partnership with Oi YOU! and Tauranga Art Gallery and will run from March 28 through to June 15.

Buildings across the city will be brought to life with giant artworks created especially for Paradox created by top local, national and international artists.

Paradox will also feature the Oi YOU! Collection which includes the most extensive assembly of Banksy works in the Southern Hemisphere and will be up on display at Tauranga Art Gallery during the festival.

Tauranga Art Gallery director Karl Chitham is excited about the line-up of artists the gallery will have on display.

'With installations, throw-ups, virtual reality and pieces by some of the world's most talented artists, Paradox Inside will be a totally immersive experience.

'We are looking forward to seeing amazing works by artists like Askew One, Lucy McLauchlan, Sofles and with the recent addition of Fintan Magee and the virtual reality experience by Rone.”

Paradox: Tauranga Street Art Festival will run from March 28 through to June 15. For more information visit the festival website: www.taurangastreetartfestival.nz

Fintan Magee's 'Between Two Worlds'.