Tauranga is being given a cultural tickle-up but its indigenous critic is just one tiny voice

Pat Spellman…how well tuned in is he?

The Tauranga City Council is being accused of not working hard enough to promote its Maori identity.

Exactly what it is supposed to do to reflect this identify is anyone’s guess.

But the council is bound to be given plenty of ideas on the matter because according to Radio NZ:

The council is asking for public submissions for its draft public art policy to enhance the environment and to reflect the city’s character and identity.

The news items tells us:

Maori art is seen in the city, including the Matariki pou on the waterfront and the pou at Pukehinahina (Gate Pa).