Art project aims to make Tauranga glow

Source: SunLive

Bachelor of Creative Industries students are encouraged to think outside the box, so it's no surprise that third year student Helen Knight has come up with something a little bit different to light up the Tauranga community.
 
As part of her Degree, Helen was looking for a project – something in the community she could improve. She set her sights on the Matapihi Rail Bridge: a functional, if tired-looking, conduit connecting the city to the suburbs of Matapihi, Bayfair and Arataki. 
 
"The bridge was dark, not very attractive and probably not very safe at night." 
 
So she came up with the idea to light the bridge at night, transforming it into a waterfront feature including "off the grid" wind and solar-powered pedestrian lights, murals and full feature lighting.
 
It's a concept that is gaining support from Tauranga City councillors. 
 
"It's a simple but spectacular idea that could create pride in being a citizen of Tauranga," says Steve Morris, councillor for the Mount Maunganui-Papamoa ward.
 
"And in a way no new council office building could ever accomplish."
 
If the idea takes hold, it could see the bridge transformed into a spectacular waterfront night-time feature. 
 
Helen's thrilled her idea is gaining traction. "Excellent."