Muriwai artists find success in their annual arts trail
• May 13, 2026
Joss Hong set up her jewellery studio in the entry corridor of her Muriwai house. Photo: Supplied.
The annual Muriwai Arts Trail proved a success, with Aucklanders flocking in to explore a collection of exhibits crafted by local artists.
The Muriwai Arts Trail, organised on May 2 and 3, was an opportunity for members of the public to have free access to open studios.
Co-organiser of the arts trail and local artist Joss Hong said that it was nice to see how many people made the journey to the arts event.
“When I asked people where they’d come from some would say ‘oh yeah I just came from town’ or ‘I came from Mairangi Bay’ or ‘Mission Bay’.
“There were many that were first-time visitors on the arts trail.”
Hong organised the event alongside fellow artist Liz Smith because they wanted to give artists an opportunity to share their crafts.
Liz Smith specialises in fabric and textile arts, designing pillows and blankets. Photo: Elena Abbott.
The arts trail was originally every two years and coincided with a separate arts show that ran across the same weekend, limiting the exposure of artists and their work.
Making it an annual event opened more opportunities for the collective.
“It's been amazing to watch the quality of the artworks evolve and the skill sets and camaraderie,” Hong said.
“If I can help create some win wins in our community and beyond then that makes me very happy.”
Success didn’t just come from the turnout and sales that were made, as many of the artists – including Hong – valued the engagement and support that they received.
“I was really happy with my studio. I had so much positive feedback and one thing I heard constantly was ‘it's wonderful to hear the stories behind each of your collections.’”
Hong, who crafts contemporary jewellery, often draws inspiration from her local environment, sourcing shapes and patterns from nature.
Soundscape art specialist Mette Hay shared a similar message, saying that she loves seeing people connect with her pieces.
“I enjoy bringing people into the understanding of the arts and why we need them.
“It’s a nice day out for people to come see what is involved in art.”
Mette Hay’s soundscape is made of copper and was created through projecting sounds through water to create a pattern. Photo: Elena Abbott.
Although Hay only opened her studio for the Saturday, one of her soundscapes was presented at Good From Scratch, a Muriwai cookery school that opened especially for the trail.
This year, for the first time the Muriwai Arts Trail saw involvement from local businesses, with food trucks, eateries and galleries providing extra experiences for artists and eventgoers.
Hong hopes the trail will continue to grow and remain a local tradition after she steps away.
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