Harbourside Gardens, next to Steampunk HQ, has been transformed into a vibrant mural based on the town.
The youth council has worked alongside local artist Matthew "Wicksey" Wicks to design the artwork and represent what they love about the town.
Waitaki District Youth Council council representative Rebecca Ryan said the mural aimed to add colour to the lesser-known park.
It also gave the youth councillors an opportunity to celebrate their creativity and love for the town.
"It’s a great way for them to make their mark on this community, collaborate with a local artist and provide something for their friends, whānau, locals and visitors to enjoy."
The youth councillors were presented with the question: What does Oamaru mean to you?
Their responses will be written on the bench below the mural.
Cr Ryan said she felt inspired by their words, which showed the power of youth voices.
Wicksey said the mural combined his ideas with those presented to him by the youth councillors.
The mural blends blues and greens from the nearby ocean with the "grunginess" and metallic elements of steampunk.
It is painted on the back wall of a pergola, with climbing plants on either side.
Wicksey said the plants were intended to climb over the supporting wire and frame to cover it in.
"In a few years it’ll look quite different to how it does now."
The art had taken him a "few weekends" and he intended to work with the youth council to put the messages and finishing touches on the bench.
The mural aimed to raise the profile of the youth council and give those involved a sense of pride.
It was funded through a grant in the 2019 annual plan for a youth space and the annual youth council budget.
It is the second youth council art project unveiled this year, after the Kaupapa Kanorau — Project of Diversity in May.
