Elmer the Elephant captivates Christchurch with colourful art trail

Elmer’s Ōtautahi Elephant Trail has taken the Christchurch by storm, transforming streets and public spaces in celebration of art and community.

Nestled within Christchurch and surrounding towns from 25 November 2023 until 18 February 2024, the trail features 30 unique Elmer sculptures, each a canvas for professional and emerging artists to showcase their talent.

The trail is supported by a learning programme enabling children and young people to also participate in this highly visible, family-friendly trail with mini Elmer sculptures.

Bringing joy and colour to the city this New Zealand summer, the event also serves a higher purpose—to raise awareness and funds for the Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust, an organisation dedicated to supporting individuals and their families affected by brain injuries.

Kathryn Jones, CEO of Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust said “We are incredibly excited to bring David McKee’s much-loved elephant character, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant to life in what will be the city’s most colourful art trail yet,”

The 30th Elmer storybook, ‘Elmer and the Gift’ deals with the theme of memory loss with love and respect and celebrates diversity, being different and being tolerant to yourself and to others. “These values are a perfect match for the values we at the Laura Fergusson Brain Injury Trust hold dear,” adds Kathryn.

“For many, a brain injury can be likened to an elephant in the room – invisible to others, when in fact, it’s a serious life altering event for the person and their whānau – another reason why Elmer is such a good fit for us.”

Visitors can download the official app to follow the trail and make the most out of their experience.

Following the end of the trail, a charity auction of the sculptures will raise funds for the charity.

Find out more about the Elmer’s Ōtautahi Elephant Trail.