The bidding's nearly over for a mural of a former Prime Minister that was found in a rubbish dump.

The 2.4 metre mural of Helen Clark is being sold on Trademe, and the highest offer stands at $1600.

Wellington Council Resource Recovery Manager Roderick Boys said the money is going to Women's Refuge - chosen by Auntie Helen herself.

Boys says the piece has a political past.

"There's a photo of the image going up during, a 2002 GE protest, or something along those lines."

It is believed to be the work of Takaka mural artist Chris Finalyson.

Finlayson took to Facebook, saying the portrait was a "covert art attack", and he tried to paint the politician as "uncaring" about GE issues.

He said he hopes the sale does some good for Women's Refuge.

Helen Clark is stepping down from her position on the UN later this month.