A large-scale 3D interactive mural will soon be created in the Pop-Up Park installation in Devonport Road as part of a city centre placemaking initiative to create unique experiences.

The mural will be painted by nationally renowned local artist Shane Walker and the project is a collaboration between Downtown Tauranga and Tauranga City Council with sponsorship from Resene.

Downtown Tauranga spokesperson Millie Newitt says the mural is about creating a unique experience for the public.

'The pop-up park was created some years ago as a temporary installation. It was never expected to still be in place.

"We have now developed a concept to revitalise the area and create a unique 3D interactive mural and we can't wait to see it come to life.”

The project will also include a community day.

'It's about creating opportunities for the community to engage and be a part of experiences in the city centre. So, we are inviting the community to come along to a public painting day on Saturday July 14 from 12noon till 4pm.

"Everyone is invited to help paint the walls, lettering, furniture and pillars with base colours in preparation of Shane weaving his magic.”

Millie says there will be a paint station for the kids.

'We have something special for the kids to paint that will be added to the Pop-Up Park. The benefit of involving the community, is it encourages participation, engagement and ownership of the space and that's what we love to see in the city centre.”

Tauranga City Council spokesperson James Jacobs says revitalisation of the park and the community day is very exciting.

"I look forward to seeing it inject some interest and vibrancy in the city centre.”

The original Pop-Up Park was created as a temporary space for the public to sit and relax in the city centre.

In October 2015, five artists were commissioned by Creative Bay of Plenty to create artwork on the existing pillars and walls.

'It will be fantastic to give the pop-up park a much-needed coat of tlc,” says Millie.

'And we hope the public come a long and be a part of it. It will be great fun and a creation for all to enjoy.”

Shane Walker is commissioned to paint the 3D artwork between Saturday 21 July – Saturday 11 August, 2018. (weather dependent)