Waipu Tiles Handmade tile murals with a New Zealand flavour

The Waipu Tile Studio creates hand-decorated ceramic tiles depicting the everyday scenes of rural New Zealand – lush and green fern forests, sparkling harbors with yachts at anchor, and colorfully exotic native birds like the pukeko. The accurate portrayal in these tiles of the feel of the New Zealand countryside has given them lasting value to both New Zealanders and visitors alike.

Waipu Tile Studio was begun in 1975. In 1991, it was awarded the souvenir section of the American Express New Zealand Tourist Awards. The New Zealand Tourist Bureau uses Waipu Tiles for presentation overseas. Waipu Tiles have been mounted in many public buildings throughout New Zealand, including the Aotea Center in Auckland.

Waipu Tile Studio is owned and operated by Rod Bowey in the small town of Waipu north of Auckland.

Sue Matthews

A local artist whose playful energies produce unique works of flax, found materials, jewellery and more recently hand made cloth tiki – some with a local scottish flavour

Richard Robinson

I live and work in Ruakaka, which is in Northland, New Zealand. My paintings are a response to this beautiful area and the greater marvel that is New Zealand. Through them I hope to share with you my wonder at the perfection of God’s creation. All commissions are gladly considered. Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing a painting.

Jo May Design

“I am an established silk painting artist from Waipu Cove near Whangarei. Mostly self taught, I began painting when I was 16, mainly acrylic on board. Then I became a potter and spent 18 years making and selling my pottery creations all over NZ. During this time, I also trained as jewellery maker, selling & exhibiting my work in Galleries in Auckland. I have now settled upon silk painting – mainly due to a love of the free- flow painting style, but also the vivid colours and texture silk allows.

I love Northland – I love the climate and the beaches, the colours and the friendly people. I am inspired by the beauty of our coves and rock formations out at The Heads. I love the distinctive shapes of those hills – so recognisable to anyone who has been here even only once. I also enjoy painting native birds – so may colours and beautiful shapes, and so unique to NZ, and coastal scenes from all over the country. I work from home in Waipu Cove, and although my studio is private, I exhibit my work in selected exclusive shows and galleries all over NZ.

All images copyright Jo May