Hīkoi o te Taoka: March of the Treasure
Larnach Castle is proud be a part of the Art in Action Exhibition, led by The Otago Shore & Land Trust (The OPERA) in partnership with artists, businesses and places across the Southern Way. All art statues are proudly designed and produced entirely by local Dunedin businesses.
The art statues are of our hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin), an iconic hero of the Otago Peninsula and surrounding coastlines. It is also the rarest penguin on Earth.
Art in Action at Larnach Castle
Standing proudly in our garden is a stunning piece by Whitianga Artist Ginny Deavoll. With a beautiful forest and floral theme, our penguin is an exquisite art statue.
Sponsored by: Oceana Gold.
About Hīkoi o te Taoka: March of the Treasure
The interactive art trail is called The Hīkoi o te Taoka - March of the Treasure and is across Southern New Zealand. The aim - to raise awareness and funds for the protection and preservation of our precious species.
The inaugural 2026 campaign leverages the power of art to tell the story of the hoiho, the world’s rarest penguin, and its critical fight for survival. These stunning art statues will capture public attention, both local and visitors from overseas, sparking conversations, and motivating people to take action through donations and social sharing.
This is more than just an art trail - it is a protest against extinction.
Where you can find the Penguins!
There are 10 Art in Action statues at 1.7metres tall across key locations in Dunedin, Oamaru, Wānaka, Arrowtown, and Queenstown.
Dunedin's locations are Larnach Castle, Railway Station, and Tūhura Otago Museum.
To find out more, donate and vote, visit The Hīkoi Project | The Otago Shore & Land Trust.