The sites are sorted, the paint has arrived, nozzles are poised and artists from around New Zealand and Australia are here and ready to paint the town – literally. Graffiato – 19-21 October - Indelible, Incredible, Iconic Street Art Graffiato, the New Zealand Street Art festival kicks off this week in Taupo.

 The inaugural Graffiato in 2011 saw 18 of New Zealand’s top street artists come to Taupo over one weekend, leaving an indelible mark on the town. “These artworks don't just transform the surface of the walls they appear on, they transform the whole environment in which they appear,” says Graffiato curator, Ross Liew. “Graffiato is a spectator sport,” says Ross, “And it’s amazing to see the transformation of space over one or two days.”

This year the Graffiato group show, ranging from sculpture to stencil, is one of the few times such a large and talented pool of street artists will exhibit their work together. It’s also a rare opportunity for the public to view the artist’s work, and see aspects of their talents that differ from their street work. The exhibition is open 10am to 4pm from 21 to 28 October and all works are for sale.

“Graffiato presents street art from some of this country’s best artists,” say Kylie Hawker, Erupt Events General Manager. “The festival and the exhibition makes it accessible and we’re absolutely confident that Taupo will be the iconic home of New Zealand’s best collection of street art.” Mural sites are confirmed at Taupo Airport, the CBD, Mangakino, Skatepark as well as surrounding areas of Hickling Park.

Kylie Hawkers says 500 cans of Montana paint have arrived, paint rollers, ladders and drop cloths organized. “All we need now is sunshine,” she says.