Love Letters to Bridge Street

From: 02/03/2026 - Ongoing

Installation Type: interactive

1 – 200 Bridge St

Street Address

1-200 Bridge St, Nelson

A community engagement project facilitated by Make/Shift Spaces & Arts Council Nelson.

NEWSFLASH – come along to Red Cafe on Thursdays between 10am – 12noon, and you can make your own love letters to be pinned up on the fences. We’ll supply all the materials, you just need to being the love. Free! No bookings required, just come along!

We’re all aware that businesses along Bridge Street are finding it tough during the Bridge to Better infrastructure upgrades. Love Letters to Bridge Street is a project where anyone can create a message to be pinned up on one of the fences along Bridge Street.

It can be words of support for your favourite cafe, a shout-out to the workers who are doing the hard yakka, or just a fun drawing that will encourage a smile from passers-by. It all started on the fences near Red Art Gallery, Design Store & Cafe, and soon we had messages from Jewel Beetle, https://www.meadow.co.nz/. Scroll down to see some pics!

By transforming the street into a vibrant gallery of heartfelt expressions, we hope to uplift the community spirit and encourage people to visit and support the diverse shops and services that make Bridge Street unique. Everyone is encouraged to contribute, whether through words, drawings and other creative expressions, making this a truly collaborative effort that celebrates the strength and solidarity of our community. 

Love Letters to Bridge Street encourages community participation and volunteer involvement. Creative shapes and ‘love letters’ will be arranged and attached in displays along the Bridge Street fences, turning them into a vibrant expression of local care and connection.

Love Letters to Bridge Street aims to beautify the area and foster a sense of unity and resilience among local businesses and residents.

Click here for more information on NCC’s Bridge to Better project including a timeline of road closures.

Big thanks to NBS, Fresh Choice and a group of donors for supporting this project.

  • Love_Red_03

    Red Art Gallery & Cafe

    1 Bridge St – Where it all started! Thanks to Suzi at Red Gallery for her enthusiasm.

  • Love_Jewel Beetle_01

    Jewel Beetle

    56 Bridge St – Allison and Yvon are much-loved for the creativity and joy their work brings to Bridge St.
  • Love_Pride_01

    Whakatū Pride

    Near the cnr of Bridge & Trafalgar sts – rainbow ribbons! Big thanks to the Whakatū Pride for sharing the love.

  • Love_ArtHouse_01

    ArtHouse Architects

    Near the corner of Rutherford St – inspired by Banksy, sending love into the air.

  • Love_Anne_01

    Anne Rush

    Outside Red Cafe – how can you not smile at these sweet little dollies.

  • Love_Meadow_01

    Meadow Landscape Architecture

    Near the corner of Rutherford St – always lovely to see more greenery in the city.

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