Mana Toi Ora combines three powerful Māori concepts. Mana means prestige, Toi means artistic expression, and Ora means life and vitality.
Together, Mana Toi Ora reflects Auckland Transport’s enduring partnership with mana whenua, grounded in shared values, kaitiakitanga and mutual respect.
Through this partnership, mahi toi (Māori artwork) is proudly displayed across our transport network.
The use of mahi toi draws on Mātauranga Māori, local histories and whakapapa, enriching transport hubs, places and spaces across Tāmaki Makaurau.
Mahi toi demonstrates what is possible when infrastructure is shaped by people, place and story.
Once neutral spaces now carry local narratives that express identity, belonging and the living presence of te ao Māori.
Mahi toi in practice
Mahi toi can be found throughout the Auckland Transport network, including at stations, bridges, and other transport hubs.
At some locations, QR codes are available that link to additional information about the mahi toi online.
Ara Moana, located at Ōtāhuhu Station (Te Teihana o Ōtāhuhu), is one example of mahi toi in practice.
Ara Moana
Tessa Harris (Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki).
Varying triangles within this Ara Moana pattern represent the many iwi, hapū and whānau that pass through this space during their journeys across land and sea.
E tohu ana ngā tapatoru rerekē i roto i tēnei āhua o te Ara Moana i ngā iwi maha, i ngā hapū mana, i ngā whānau maha anō hoki kua whakawhiti i konei i tā rātou haerere i te whenua me te moana.
The use of mahi toi is also part of Auckland Transport’s commitment to more sustainable outcomes.
Mana Toi Ora speaks to the vitality of Māori art and the strength of true partnership, where together we create places that are meaningful, sustainable and shared by all.
We welcome you to explore the mahi toi and their stories and meanings, from across our region.