Timon Maxey had long wanted to paint the graceful and seldom seen White Heron, a wish that was fulfilled with the completion of this large scale work. The Kotuku is dear to the hearts of many New Zealanders with its beautiful white plumage and elegant silhouette. The only place it breeds is at the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve on the West Coast of the South Island. As a symbol of things both beautiful and rare the Kotuku occupied an important place in Maori folklore, and to compare a visitor to a Kotuku was a compliment of the highest order. Living for 15 - 20 years these gentle, rare and regal birds are a living treasure.