With so much natural beauty on offer, it can be hard to know where to start. To help you get focused, we’ve zoomed in on Aotearoa New Zealand's most iconic photography locations.
Being a travel photographer means you are constantly observing the landscape and New Zealand offers everything from rainforest to mountains, plus incredible beaches.
Rudyard Kipling famously called it the “eighth wonder of the world” and it certainly lives up to the hype. Milford Sound, located within Fiordland National Park, is a photographic fiord surrounded by sheer granite cliffs. To recreate the iconic waterfall shot, take a boat trip to Stirling Falls.
The Church of the Good Shepherd(opens in new window) is a charming, small church located on the picturesque shores of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Located within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the church also makes a great foreground for shots of the Milky Way.
The twisted willow growing out of a shallow bay in Lake Wānaka - fondly known as ‘That Wānaka Tree’ - is an Instagram sensation. With the stunning Southern Alps as its backdrop, this tree stands out in every season – whether framed by snow-covered peaks, golden autumn leaves, or rainy days when the mist has set in.
Roy’s Peak, with its winding ridgeline overlooking Lake Wānaka, is renowned for solo shots that give the illusion of standing on the edge of the world.
Framing devices don’t get any better than Cathedral Cove on the Coromandel Peninsula. This secluded bay has naturally formed rock archway overlooking a picture-perfect beach. Accessible only by boat or kayak.
A dual World Heritage Site, Tongariro National Park is famous for its otherworldly atmosphere, featuring bleak moon-like landscape, hyper-blue lakes, and rust-coloured volcanoes. It’s a demanding climb to reach the emerald lakes via the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but it is worth the effort.
With its golden beaches and lush forest, Abel Tasman National Park makes a reliable muse, with fewer visitors and glorious sunny days. Take the Abel Tasman Coast Track for great views overlooking secluded coves and Split Apple Beach Track to reach Split Apple Rock.
Lake Mangamahoe is one of the easiest locations to view Mount Taranaki. Not only is it perfect for reflection shot, but it is also surrounded by beautiful native forest.
Visit Hobbiton to capture your slice of film history. The electric green hills and little red doors create a whimsical and picturesque setting that is instantly recognisable as The Shire from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies.
If you are intending to use a drone for capturing footage while on holiday in New Zealand, it is important to be aware of New Zealand's rules and regulations surrounding their use.
Please visit the Airshare website to find out more.(opens in new window)
