Harkness approaches the dormant volcano of Maungawhau not merely as a landmark, but as a living entity defined by its rolling hills and diverse landscape features. The use of a vibrant color palette brings a sense of vitality to the lush green foliage, where coniferous trees and evergreens stand as sentinels over the Auckland suburb. The portrait orientation emphasizes the height of the peak, drawing the eye upward through layers of dense vegetation and carefully considered light.

Within this traditional landscape art, there is a clear celebration of biodiversity and environmental sustainability. The composition feels thoughtful and deliberate, capturing a serene atmosphere that invites the viewer to consider the relationship between human presence and the natural world. Encased in a classic frame, the painting serves as a window into a verdant, quiet space where the majesty of the mountain peak meets the soft textures of the surrounding hills.