ACCIONA celebrates the artwork on Rā Hihi- flyover in Pakūranga Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), recognising the cultural significance of the new flyover and its role in supporting the next stage of the Eastern Busway. The designs reflect the area's cultural history and importance, helping to create a sense of welcome for people who travel through East Auckland.

The flyover has been built as part of the Eastern Busway programme to provide better travel connections for East Auckland. It was constructed by ACCIONA, in alliance with Auckland Transport, Fletcher Construction, AECOM and Jacobs, and in partnership with mana whenua. The artwork, created for Rā Hihi by Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki artist Ruben Kirkwood, reflects ancestral narratives and the natural landscape of Te Pākuranga Rā Hihi. The visual design enhances the user experience while reinforcing the cultural identity of mana whenua.

The artist acknowledged the responsibility of shaping a piece that sits within a major transport corridor. "The mahi toi is grounded in pūrākau passed down by ancestors who lived in the space, and the natural attributes of the environment," Mr Kirkwood said. "My hope is that the mahi toi has a visually positive impact to the user experience and one that aligns subtly to the landscape, while retaining the cultural identity of tangata whenua who hold guardianship for the past, present and future."

Dean Kimpton, Chief Executive of Auckland Transport, emphasised the collaboration with local partners. "Rā Hihi is an important link for East Auckland and the artwork strengthens its connection to community and environment," Mr Kimpton said. "It reflects the shared commitment to creating spaces that respect the past while supporting future growth."

Integrating cultural expression within major infrastructure aims to create places that are both functional and reflective of the region’s heritage. This approach was developed in partnership with mana whenua who contributed to naming, design and cultural narratives for the project.

Rā Hihi - flyover provides a direct connection between Pakūranga Road and the highway, reducing congestion around the Town Centre. Its opening has enabled the Eastern Busway to progress from Pakūranga to Botany, supporting high frequency travel across Botany, Pakūranga, Panmure and the city centre.

As construction continues on upcoming stages of the Eastern Busway, the mahi toi at Rā Hihi signals the ongoing integration of cultural identity within transport infrastructure. The artwork represents a lasting contribution to East Auckland, supporting a future network shaped by community partnership and respect for place.