Wall Street Mall Welcomes a Hoiho Treasure

Wall Street Mall is proud to support Hīkoi o te Taoka | March of the Treasures, a remarkable public art project uniting creativity and conservation across Southern New Zealand.

As part of this powerful initiative, we are thrilled to host one of the campaign’s stunning artist‑designed penguin sculptures right here in the mall.

A Symbol of Hope in the Heart of the City

The sculpture represents the hoiho – the yellow‑eyed penguin, an iconic taoka (treasure) of the Otago Peninsula and the rarest penguin species on the planet. With population numbers continuing to decline, the hoiho urgently needs awareness and action. By bringing one of these beautifully crafted statues into Wall Street Mall, we hope to inspire locals and visitors to learn more about this precious species and the efforts needed to protect it.

Art With Purpose

Hīkoi o te Taoka transforms public spaces into platforms for conservation. Each sculpture across the trail tells a story of urgent hope, shining a light on the challenges the hoiho faces – from habitat loss to predator threats. The campaign raises essential funding for:

  • Scientific research
  • Predator control initiatives
  • Habitat restoration projects

By displaying a penguin sculpture at Wall Street Mall, we are proud to help amplify this message and invite our community to join the movement toward protection and preservation.

FOR MORE INFO VISIT – The Hikoi Project | The Otago Shore & Land Trust

Featuring Local Artist: Emma Millburn

Our hosted penguin has been brought to life by Dunedin artist Emma Millburn, known for her popular project 100 Paintings of Dunedin. Her impressionist oil style, inspired by the likes of Monet and Degas, captures the emotion, beauty, and atmosphere of the Otago landscape. With a background that spans America, Canada, and Aotearoa, Emma brings a unique sense of nostalgia and connection to every piece she creates.

We are delighted to showcase her work as part of this conservation‑focused art trail.

Come Meet The Penguin

We invite you to visit Wall Street Mall, explore the sculpture up close, learn the hoiho’s story, and snap a photo with our newest resident. Bring the kids, bring your friends, and be part of a movement to prevent extinction, preserve our wildlife, and protect the natural world that makes our region special.

Together, we can help ensure the hoiho’s journey continues for generations to come.