Auckland's beaches are being transformed into works of art by a man and his garden tools.
A sand artist who goes by the name of Beach Tagger has been making our stunning coastlines even more picturesque.
Where most people see a beautiful beach, David Hilliam sees a blank canvas. A rake and an old walking pole are his paintbrush.
"What I really like about it is the surprise it gives people, because they'll be coming to the beach just for a nice walk and they'll come across this massive artwork. Some of the reactions are amazing - lots of wows, thank yous."
Hilliam was inspired by meeting an American sand artist who taught him the art. Since then he's been out crafting his own designs almost every weekend.
He doesn't mind that his creations have a lifespan of one tide.
"There was one woman who came along once and she said it even makes it more special in a way because it's only here for a short period of time; it's such an ephemeral thing, and that really struck a chord with me. I like that idea that it makes it even more special."
The landscape gardener has had a lifelong interest in art, and a passion for ethnic and tribal designs.
"I like that it's honest, so not too worried about being perfect. The lines can be crooked and it just really adds to the design I reckon."
David has been tagging beaches all over Auckland and uploading the photos to his Facebook page.
"That's part of the joy as well is looking for a new beach or a new patch of sand. It's like another sandpit for me to play in really."
They're best viewed from above, so he tries to work near paths allowing his work to be admired in full.
"There's this quote I saw from Picasso, which I really like. He said art washes away the dust of everyday life, and when you're working on a canvas like this you come away from here super clean. Might be a little bit tired, but super satisfied with what happened."
The art is a kind of therapy, and the finished product is a sight to behold.
Newshub.
