Manu Artists

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Pōhutukawa MANU by Artist Joe Kemp:

The wood is Pōhutukawa with a whale bone inlay for the eye. “Manu celebrates our culture, Mana wāhine, and connection to Manu, reviving the Mauri from this old Pōhutukawa tree,” says Joe Kemp.

Joe Kemp, born in Christchurch in 1973, moved North soon after birth. At 6-7, he lived with his Pōua and Tāua in Tuahiwi for two years before returning to Kawerau, Bay of Plenty. He now resides at Lake Rotoma and has been a self-taught sculptor for 25 years. 

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Tāmoko MANU by Artist Morgan Darlison:

Designed to empower wāhine. The intention for this design depicts the Mauri of our wāhine internally, the fluidity, tenacity, strength and delicate nature of our femininity. “Art is more than a career; it is a purpose,” says Morgan Darlison.

Kaitiaki Studios, led by artist/designer Morgan Darlison, embodies the Te Reo Māori concept of kaitiakitanga, representing guardianship and care. The studio focuses on Māori design, connecting communities through inclusive and collaborative storytelling. Morgan finds joy in visual expression and the impact her work has on people.

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Wooden panel sculptures by Artists: Pete and Megan Collins:

Inspired by the name ‘Manu’ and native NZ birds in flight, the large panel sculptures depict the Kōtuku, Tui, and Tara iti, showcasing New Zealand’s bird life. The Te Manaia sculptures symbolise a Spiritual Guardian and the balance between Sky, Earth, and Water. Based in Whakatane, Pete Collins, a skilled carpenter and “Shape Maker,” works with his partner Megan to create unique handmade sculptures, found in homes and gardens across NZ.

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Murals inside restaurant by Artist: Guy Ellis:

XL Street Murals founded by Guy Ellis, aka Dcypher, a renowned mural and graffiti artist from New Zealand. After a decade in Los Angeles, he returned to showcase his vision. With a global presence, Guy has participated in street art festivals and collaborated with top agencies for art and advertising. He has also created murals for film and TV in the US and established large-scale murals across Ōtautahi.

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Kete (Woven baskets) weaved with aroha by Rangiputa Wallace:

“Mahi raranga symbolises the survival of our people and culture, and I am honoured to continue this craft” says Rangiputa Wallace.

Born in Gisborne and now residing in Kingston, Otago, Rangiputa has discovered the art of raranga through Te Whare Pora. This passion has reconnected her with the taiao and her Māori heritage. Rangiputa enjoys working with harakeke, exploring its properties and uses, and learning traditional techniques. She recently completed her Certificate in Nga Toi Level 4 and created her first kākahu using both traditional and contemporary materials.

Manu Restaurant & Bar
Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Matariki Koru for Manu Bar and wall sculptures designed and created by John Nicholson:

Born and bred in Gore, Southland, Aotearoa John credits his creative gene from his late mum Noeline, who was a keen acrylic canvas artist. After 30 years as a builder, John went back to study and became a designer! His work is influenced by his love of Māori Pacifica, curves, and the art forms from this culture. He has combined his skills as a builder and artist to bring these truly beautiful sculptures to life! Arohanui John.

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant and Bar Cambridge Terrace Christchurch

Te Hei by Artist Gareth Barlow:

Gareth Barlow, born in the Hutt Valley of Wellington, New Zealand, is an artist who integrates his deep reverence for the tangata whenua of Aotearoa with his New Zealand and Celtic heritage. Using acrylics and charcoals, Barlow creates large-scale portraits and symbolic compositions featuring native New Zealand flora and fauna. He also incorporates Māori carving techniques, layering elements to animate his work and reflect the topography and spiritual essence of New Zealand. His work has been showcased in prominent museums throughout New Zealand, and he has received several prestigious awards, including finalist positions in the Wallace Art Awards and the Parkin Drawing Prize.

Manu Restaurant & Bar

Manu Restaurant & Bar