Kowhai art.
A new artwork titled Ka pua, te Koowhai, designed in partnership with cancer patients, has been blessed in the radiation therapy unit of the Lomas Building at Waikato Hospital.
Ken Fyfe of Ngaroma placed a flower on the patient graduation tree. His partner Sharon and the Radiotherapy team were there to support him.
The interactive kōwhai tree mural offers patients a way to acknowledge the completion of their radiation treatment.
Ken Fyfe, a school bus driver from Ngaroma, south east of Te Awamutu, was the first patient to mark the completion of his treatment by placing a flower on the patient graduation tree. He was thrilled to be chosen for the honour and shared his gratitude for the care he received.
“It’s the end of my radiation treatment after three weeks,” Ken said.
“The staff here are absolutely fabulous – they explained everything to me clearly and were so kind. They really can’t do enough for you. The whole experience has been very good.”
The kowhai art
Located on Level B1 near the medical linear accelerator treatment rooms and waiting area, the artwork offers patients a way to mark the completion of their treatment. Instead of ringing a bell, patients are invited to place a flower or seed pod on the tree – symbolising strength, growth, and new beginnings.
Radiation therapy can span several weeks, with patients returning daily for treatment. Over time, these visits become part of their routine – they become familiar with the staff and the treatment process. When treatment finishes, we see it as an important opportunity to acknowledge this milestone and mark the completion of their journey.
Radiation therapist Charlene Casson, who leads co-design projects for the service, says this latest project highlights the importance of involving patients.
“Co-design means involving the people who use the service right from the beginning. There’s no point creating something we think is great if it doesn’t resonate with the people it’s meant for,” she said.
Working alongside two other radiation therapists, a nurse, and a group of patients, the team explored options including a bell, a certificate, or a native tree. A survey of 62 patients and interviews with several others helped guide the decision.
“The overwhelming response was in favour of a tree – something native and symbolic, where patients could place a decoration on it,” Charlene says.
The group chose the kōwhai tree. With funding support from the Oncology Trust, Waikato artist Siobhan Boughton was commissioned to create the mural.
The final piece, titled Ka pua, te Koowhai – The fruit of the kōwhai will blossom – combines hand-painted and 3D elements and features 75 moveable kowhai flowers or seed pods that patients can place on the tree. Once the tree is full, a symbolic ‘wind’ blows through, allowing the process to begin again.
The mural has already generated enthusiasm and engagement among patients, many of whom are keen to take part in the tradition.
“This is something very special, and a first of its kind for New Zealand,” said Michael Taylor, who leads the Radiation Therapy service, at the recent blessing.
“International literature suggests a shift in how services need to celebrate these milestones. Our patients are an important voice in shaping how we deliver care and we pride ourselves on their involvement.”
“It’s a gentle, quiet and meaningful way for patients to recognise the completion of their treatment.” said Charlene.
Ken Fyfe of Ngaroma placed a flower on the patient graduation tree. His partner Sharon and the Radiotherapy team were there to support him.
