The large creation, entitled Putting the Wind in Your Sail, is located in front of the main festival site at Sunset Point and sets the scene for the launch of the summer beach art event tomorrow.
Event spokeswoman Sue Asplin said there had been lots of early interest. Colourful flags had gone up early and the sunny weather had helped too.
As rain was expected to mar the first few days of the four-day event, Ms Asplin encouraged people to start creating early.
"The earlier sculptures are done, the more likely they are to get votes also," she said.
The Driftwood and Sand Festival has been running for 24 years. It started in 2002 as a community project to bring people together on the beach and make the most of the Hokitika’s natural treasures of "endless sand and a shoreline littered with driftwood, stones and beach debris".
"Over the years it has grown into a much-loved annual tradition, drawing locals and visitors alike," Ms Asplin said.
"Many longtime participants return year after year, making driftwood and sand a living part of Hokitika’s exciting summer story.
"Sculptors range from professional artists to groups of friends, families and anyone keen to get sandy hands."
It officially starts tomorrow and runs to Sunday, and wraps up with a treasure hunt and prizegiving.
