
Katikati Murals
Discover New Zealand's Mural Town, a vibrant community adorned with dozens of colorful murals telling local stories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Katikati Murals
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover New Zealand's Mural Town, a vibrant community adorned with dozens of colorful murals telling local stories.
"Katikati is New Zealand's Mural Town, a delightful surprise with art around every corner!"

🚶♀️ Grab a Mural Map
Essential for navigating the 35+ murals and understanding their stories. Available locally!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the art.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mural Trail
Throughout Katikati
Dozens of colorful murals telling local stories and history adorn buildings across town.

Haiku Trail
Along the main street
A unique artistic experience featuring poems integrated into the town's art and landscape.

Local Produce Stands
Roadside and town center
Taste the region's famous avocados and kiwifruit directly from local growers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art Walk
Beyond the Brushes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Grab a Mural Map
Essential for navigating the 35+ murals and understanding their stories. Available locally!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the art.
📸 Don't Forget Your Camera
Plenty of photo opportunities around every corner. Capture the vibrant art!
🥑 Taste Local Delights
Katikati is known for avocados and kiwifruit. Look for roadside stands!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Grab a Mural Map
Essential for navigating the 35+ murals and understanding their stories. Available locally!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the art.
📸 Don't Forget Your Camera
Plenty of photo opportunities around every corner. Capture the vibrant art!
🥑 Taste Local Delights
Katikati is known for avocados and kiwifruit. Look for roadside stands!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Katikati Murals are a charming and free attraction, praised for their vibrant art and the unique experience of discovering them throughout the town. Visitors enjoy the self-guided tour and the integration of art into the community. However, some dining experiences, particularly regarding customer service and specific dishes, have been noted as disappointing by a few reviewers.
"Absolutely worth a second chance if you’ve not tried in a while. Especially the Chinese takeaway.
We are now regular customers. Order online, portions are generous, always have left overs. Particularly recommended bbq pork fried rice and wontons. Everything is always hot fresh and full of flavour."
Rochelle Henderson
"Revisited after a disappointing visit 5 years ago with a recommendation from a relative for the $85 special, very generous servings.. enough for at least 8 people.
Food was fresh, hot and tasty
Phone order.
Friendly service in store
Highlight was the bbq pork fried rice, crispy wontons with beautiful soft porky filling and the combination chow mein.
Will definately go back.
Aesthetic of the store not particularly appealing but you dont go to a takeaway for the in store aesthetic..
Recommended ++"
Sharon Henderson
"At Mural chippie, the chips are nice, batter is good, fish is fresh, mussels are good. And not over salted! Cheap and cheerful. Don't judge a book by it cover.
We've tried a few other chippies in town. This one has been the most consistent, the other have been a disappointment despite the higher star ratings."
Adele Cain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Katikati is easily accessible by car, located on State Highway 2 in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand's North Island. It's about a 30-minute drive from Tauranga. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to explore the murals.
Yes, there is ample parking available throughout the town, especially near the main street where many of the murals are located. You can usually find street parking or designated parking areas.
Absolutely! Katikati is very walkable and bike-friendly. Many visitors enjoy strolling or cycling through the town to discover the murals at their own pace.
The most popular way is to follow the self-guided mural trail. You can pick up a map from the Katikati Information Centre or download one online. This map will guide you to all the numbered murals and points of interest.
Most of the murals are located on ground level along the main streets and sidewalks, making them generally accessible. However, some may be on private property or require navigating uneven surfaces. It's advisable to check with the local information center for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Katikati Murals is completely free! The murals are painted on public buildings and walls throughout the town, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction.
The murals are outdoors and can be viewed at any time, day or night. However, for the best experience and visibility, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
The Haiku Trail is also a free, self-guided experience integrated into the town's art. You can enjoy the poems and their artistic placements as part of your mural exploration.
While official guided tours might be limited, many visitors create their own tours using maps and local information. Occasionally, local community groups may offer guided walks, so it's worth checking with the Katikati Information Centre.
Yes, the murals are a permanent outdoor attraction and can be visited year-round, including on public holidays. However, some local businesses might have altered hours during these times.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and creates beautiful shadows. Midday sun can be harsh and wash out colors.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography of the murals. However, always be respectful of private property and any signage. For commercial use, it's advisable to seek permission.
Try capturing the full mural, details within the artwork, and shots that incorporate the surrounding environment or people interacting with the art. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scale of some murals.
Yes, photographing the Haiku Trail poems is encouraged! It's a unique way to share the literary aspect of Katikati's art scene.
Many murals are highly photogenic, but those with vibrant colors, intricate details, or historical significance often stand out. The murals depicting local flora, fauna, and historical events are popular subjects.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Katikati offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes and takeaways to restaurants. Many are located along the main street, making them convenient stops during your mural tour.
Yes, Katikati has several fish and chip shops. Reviews suggest the 'Mural chippie' is a popular and consistent choice for fresh fish and good batter, though one reviewer had a negative experience with customer service and a fish burger.
The Chinese takeaway in Katikati has received positive reviews for generous portions, fresh ingredients, and flavorful dishes like BBQ pork fried rice and crispy wontons. It's recommended for phone orders.
Katikati is known for its avocados and kiwifruit. Look for roadside stalls or local markets where you can purchase fresh produce directly from growers.
While specific options vary, most cafes and restaurants in Katikati will offer some vegetarian choices. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff about vegan alternatives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as exploring can take a few hours. Look out for murals with animals or characters that might appeal to younger children. The Haiku Trail can also be a fun, interactive element, encouraging kids to read and appreciate poetry. Consider a stop at a local cafe for an ice cream or a treat to break up the exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic to enjoy amidst the town's scenery, or opt for affordable takeaway options like fish and chips or Chinese food. Look for roadside stalls selling fresh, local produce like avocados and kiwifruit for a cheap and healthy snack.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Katikati: More Than Just Murals
The Mural Drive is a self-guided tour that allows visitors to explore these artistic treasures at their own pace. Maps are readily available, detailing the location and significance of each piece. Beyond the large-scale murals, Katikati also features the unique Haiku Trail, where poetry is integrated into the artistic landscape, adding a literary dimension to the visual experience. This combination of visual and poetic art makes Katikati a distinctive destination for art lovers and cultural explorers.
Many of the murals were created through community initiatives and artist collaborations, fostering a strong sense of local pride. Visitors often remark on how the art is seamlessly integrated into the town's everyday life, appearing on shop fronts, public buildings, and even along walkways. This pervasive artistic presence transforms a simple drive-through town into an engaging outdoor gallery.
Exploring Katikati's Culinary Scene
For those seeking a hearty meal, the local fish and chip shops are a popular choice. One establishment, often referred to as the 'Mural chippie,' is noted for its fresh fish, good batter, and reasonable prices, though customer service experiences can vary. Similarly, the Chinese takeaway in Katikati has garnered praise for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, making it a go-to for many locals and visitors alike. Ordering ahead is often recommended for these popular spots.
Beyond these staples, Katikati offers a taste of small-town New Zealand hospitality. Exploring the main street will reveal various cafes and eateries where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the local atmosphere. It's a place where you can enjoy simple, honest food, often with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit