Presented at Ramada by Wyndham Hamilton, this new site-specific work by Beijing/Los Angeles-based artist Chen Yong explores the relationship between humans and the environment, while celebrating the extraordinary animals and plants of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Having recently been exploring this relationship, Chen Yong was invited to create a new work for City of Wonder, building upon his research and engaging more deeply with New Zealand’s unique natural and cultural context. As he explored this context, the tuatara captured his attention — not only as a biologically unique species, but also as a creature carrying rich cultural significance. The tuatara became a key starting point for his creative response.

Inspired by species that are rare, threatened or no longer found in the wild, Chen Yong brings his distinctive cross-cultural perspective to the remarkable natural world of Aotearoa. His work invites us to look closer, discover the beauty around us and imagine a future where these extraordinary species continue to thrive.

A collaboration between COW and Ramada by Wyndham Hamilton, the work becomes a celebration of nature, creativity and the wild wonder of Aotearoa.