Rugby billboard on lakefront puts you in the picture

A new Rugby-themed billboard situated on the lakefront by local artist Donovan Bixley offers a bit of fun for passing tourists, locals and anyone who wants to see themselves in the big game.

The new billboard has holes for you to put your face through and become part of the picture, reminiscent of the turn-of-the-century British sea-side attractions.

Taupō District Council Urban Design and Development Manager, John Ridd, says the interactive billboard was an inexpensive and fun way to celebrate the upcoming Rugby World Cup. “These photo-boards have been around for centuries and are a celebrated tradition. It’s great fun to put yourself in the picture.”

Artist Donovan Bixley who recently launched his new children’s book series Dinosaur Rescue and illustrated Mark Ellis’ book Good Fullas: A guide to Kiwi blokes, was stoked to be offered the chance to design something totally unique. "I can't resist sticking my face in one of these displays when I see one. I wanted to create something that would be a bit of a laugh for the whole family or a bunch of mates. With our RWC display there'll be lots of scoring and no abstaining."