Calling Lower Hutt mural artists

Help transform a piece of Petone infrastructure into public art 

Got an idea you’ve been itching to paint? 

We’re calling for expressions of interest from local mural artists to create a large-scale public artwork on one of our gas assets in Petone, Lower Hutt. 

This is your chance to reimagine a highly visible piece of everyday infrastructure and transform it into something bold, meaningful, and unmistakably Lower Hutt – an artwork that reflects the stories, identity, and character of the community it sits within.  

 

The site 

The canvas? A District Regulator Station (DRS) on Hutt Road, Petone. 

While the building plays a critical role in safely supplying gas to homes and businesses, it also sits in a prominent, high-traffic location. With the right artwork, it has the potential to transform the structure into a welcoming and vibrant landmark for locals and visitors alike. 

 

The opportunity 

  • We are seeking mural proposals that: 
  • Distinctively Lower Hutt – grounded in local stories, culture, people, and place 
  • Site-responsive – thoughtfully connected to the surrounding environment 
  • Vibrant and welcoming – creating a sense of pride, connection and belonging 

Priority will be given to artists with a strong local connection, and to concepts that demonstrate an understanding of the site and its context.  

The selected artist may also have the opportunity to refine their concept in collaboration with The Gas Hub and local stakeholders prior to final delivery. 

 

Key details (at a glance) 

  • Location: Petone, Lower Hutt 
  • Artist fee: Up to $5,000  
  • Submissions close: Sunday 22 February 2026 
  • Paint period: March / April 2026 (weather dependent) 
  • Community involvement: Optional opportunity to engage local high school students.

Full project details, site information, selection criteria, and responsibilities are outlined in the Artist Brief

 

How to apply 

To apply, artists are asked to submit: 

  • A concept sketch of the proposed mural 
  • A short written description outlining the connection to Lower Hutt 
  • Examples of previous mural or public artwork 
  • A quote covering the full scope of work 
  • Estimated timeframe and availability.

All submissions must be received by 5pm, Sunday 22 February 2026.

 

How submissions will be assessed

Submissions will be assessed by a panel including representatives from The Gas Hub and project stakeholders. 

Proposals will be considered against the following criteria:

  • Artistic quality and originality of the proposed concept 
  • Connection to Lower Hutt, including relevance to local stories, identity, and place 
  • Response to the site, demonstrating an understanding of the location and its surroundings 
  • Feasibility, including budget, timeline, and experience delivering murals or public artworks 
  • Local connection, with priority given to artists based in, or with strong ties to, the Lower Hutt community. 

The panel may shortlist artists and request further discussion or refinement of concepts before a final selection is made. 

 

Ready to paint Petone? 

Apply now

 

Questions? 

If you have any questions about the site or the submission process, please contact: 

Bec Collie 

marketing@thegashub.co.nz 

Further information

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