The mini print vending machine

The Mini Vending Machine – A Pop-Up by Bonnie

Meet Bonnie, a self-taught illustrator and proud Bucklands Beach local. As the middle child of three, her creative journey began during the Covid-19 lockdown, when she started doodling kiwi birds and illustrating shopfronts to support local restaurants and cafes offering click-and-collect. What began as a simple passion project soon evolved into a heartfelt mission: to connect with her community through art.

This year, Bonnie took the leap to pursue art full-time, with a focus on weaving creativity into everyday life. One of her first public projects is The Mini Print Machine, a playful, surprise filled art experience designed to spark a little joy in unexpected places.

Inspired while people watching at a café, Bonnie wondered: “What could add a little spark to our daily routines?” The result is a retro style vending machine filled with affordable, collectible art prints. Each token unlocks a surprise, one of Bonnie’s whimsical mini prints, turning every purchase into a keepsake, a moment of delight, and a connection to the café space.

The vending machine will pop up in cafes across East Auckland and all you have to do is purchase some drinks and food from the cafe and receive a token for the machine, first up was Dear Deer Cafe, Pakuranga and launched 9 June – and sold out.

Swing by, grab a coffee, and take home a little piece of art, one print at a time.

Urban in East will launch on 1 July 2025 - until sold out.

Follow Bonnie: Instagram

This is an Arts Out East Project in collaboration with the Howick Village Association. Arts Out East is supported by Te Tuhi and Howick Local Board