8 Scenic Spots to Photograph in New Zealand

New Zealand a dream destination, since the scenery often looks surreal and otherworldly. This island nation is one of the most photogenic places on Earth from majestic mountains to pristine beaches. From a professional photographer to a person who likes to take beautiful moments, there is no lack of inspiration here. Get your New Zealand Visa before you plan your photography journey. 

Your lens will tell the story for each location across New Zealand. From glacial valleys and rolling hills, to bubbling geothermal pools, the country has a wide variety of landscapes that will keep your camera clicking non-stop. So if you want a jaw dropping travel album or just love nature in the purest form, here is a list of the eight most scenic photography spots in New Zealand. 

Here are the 8 Scenic Spots to Photograph in New Zealand 

1. Lake Tekapo 

Visitors are stunned by the turquoise blue waters of Lake Tekapo which is particularly stunning when combined with the bright blooms of lupin flowers in late spring and early summer. The background is the Southern Alps which create a surreal contrast and the Church of the Good Shepherd, perched on the lake's edge, has timeless charm. This area is also designated a dark sky reserve, meaning this area turns into a stargazer’s dream at night. 

2. Milford Sound 

New Zealand’s South Island, Milford Sound is often described as the jewel. The picture perfect scene is made up of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and serene waters. Mitre Peak is often shrouded in mist and cloud which make your photos even more mystical. There are lots of boat cruises and kayaking opportunities so you can easily get a unique perspective of this majestic fjord from any angle at any time during the day. 

3. Hobbiton 

Hobbiton is the movie set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies that takes you into the storybook scene. The lush pastures and whimsical hobbit holes are located in Matamata and the playful but breathtaking photo opportunities abound. Every last detail, from tiny wooden doors to flowering gardens, is paid to in this location making it feel like you’ve stepped into another world. This is the perfect place to let your inner storyteller through photos take over. 

4. Mount Cook National Park 

Lovers of alpine scenery have a dream in Mount Cook National Park. The park is home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak and is full of awe inspiring glacial lakes, snow covered mountains and great trails. One of the best photo ops can be had on the Hooker Valley Track with suspension bridges and mirror like waters reflecting the rugged beauty. But if you go to a clear night, then the starry skies will make your photo collection a little more magical. 

5. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland 

Wai-O-Tapu is not like any other place in New Zealand, it is situated near Rotorua. It is known for its geothermal pools, with vibrant Champagne Pool being one of the most striking and its colors are so vivid that your photos will pop. Endless textures and patterns to explore are bubbling mud pits, sulfur craters and steaming ground. And with its surreal landscape, it’s like you’re on another planet and it’s a great place to make visually stunning and unique images. 

6. Roy’s Peak 

One of the most iconic photo spots in the country is Roy’s Peak in Wanaka. The views from the summit which come after a steep hike up, are panoramic and include Lake Wanaka, the surrounding valleys and the snow dusted Southern Alps. The narrow ridge at the top makes an excellent wide angle foreground. When you shoot early morning, the early morning light gives you a warm, golden glow that makes your images even better. 

7. Cathedral Cove 

A natural archway and white sandy beach surrounded by turquoise waters has made Cathedral Cove, on Coromandel Peninsula, famous. This hidden gem is accessible by foot or kayak and at sunrise this place is particularly beautiful. Arch frames your shots beautifully and even simple shots turn into postcard worthy moments. The beach is peaceful and the waves are gentle making it the perfect place to capture the beauty of coast. 

8. Franz Josef Glacier 

The striking sight of where ice meets rainforest is the Franz Josef Glacier. It is a rare natural phenomenon and a great photography experience to be able to capture massive ice formations amongst lush greenery. Excellent hiking trails surround the glacier and helicopter tours are an unforgettable way to see it from above. The glacier is stunning, provides great contrast and scale and the photographs you can shoot from the ground or sky are breathtaking. 

Conclusion 

From the very first destination there is no doubt that New Zealand is an unforgettable canvas for photographers, with each destination more captivating than the last. Whatever you’re hiking up peaks, strolling by lakes or exploring thermal landscapes, there’s no shortage of inspiration to fill your camera roll. The variety of landscapes makes every click of the shutter something to be remembered. 

Before you jet off to capture this magical places, do not forget to apply for your New Zealand Visa from India. It’s your first step into one of the most beautiful adventures with once in a lifetime views and photos that will last forever. Pack your camera, get your visa and prepare to shoot New Zealand.