• Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction feature art piece to be displayed at region’s airport

Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction feature art piece to be displayed at region’s airport

Mauricio Benega’s ‘The Wine Capital of NZ’ will be on display at Hawke’s Bay airport’s arrival terminal from October3, ahead of this year’s Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction.

Visitors to Hawke’s Bay will have the chance to view Mr Benega’s art piece ahead of this annual event, where it will be auctioned off alongside 40 other lots, including wine and travel packages.

“This was made possible through the Wine Auction’s partnership with Hawke’s Bay Airport this year,” says Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction Project Manager Elisha Milmine.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to showcase the quality of what is on offer, both at the Wine Auction and in Hawke’s Bay.”

Hawke’s Bay Airport Strategy & Business Development Manager Dean Smith says, “Hawke’s Bay Airport is proud to support the local wine industry which embodies so much of what makes our region great. The Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction is an iconic event that has a rich history of supporting those less fortunate in our community – we are excited about exhibiting Mauricio’s work in the terminal ahead of this year’s auction.”

The painting is 2090x1220mm, a heavy and standout piece. 

“The painting explores our region from the good weather, to the beautiful beaches and land the vibrant colours, to the cool laid back lifestyle and everything in between. All of these things relating to a good wine of course.” Mr Benega say.

“This piece will make the viewer look over and over again to be able to digest everything.”

Mauricio Benega’s work can be found in collections in NZ, Brazil, Australia, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland, Germany, USA, Indonesia and Singapore. Locally he has also completed murals, including across Clive Pool and the Opera House 100 years celebration fence mural. As the featured artist for the 28th Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction this unique piece, alongside the other auction lots, will raise essential funds for Cranford Hospice.

This year’s Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction is on November 9 at the Hastings City Art Gallery. For tickets or move information, visit www.hawkesbaywineauction.co.nz.