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New Zealand's South Island

The Incredible Panoramas of Middle Earth

Welcome to a land where nature’s brushstrokes have painted a masterpiece—New Zealand’s South Island. This 13-day photographic adventure promises to immerse you in breathtaking vistas, sparkling glaciers, ancient forests, and a rich panoramic tapestry. From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the rugged glacially carved fiords, every frame you capture will tell a story of a land that brims with untouched natural beauty and amazing diversity.

Pano Ken Wright 9 - New Zealand

Nature began crafting the South Island around 30 million years ago—known as Te Waipounamu in Māori—it is a realm where ancient tales intertwine with rugged landscapes. For millennia, the Māori have long been the indigenous people of “Aotearoa.” Their arrival from their Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki, over a thousand years ago, marked the beginning of a profound connection between the land and its people.

Our photo expedition commences in Christchurch, the gateway to the South Island. This vibrant city, with its blend of colonial heritage and modern flair, sets the stage for our photographic odyssey. As you wander through the Botanic Gardens or along the Avon River, you’ll feel the pulse of a city that has risen from adversity—a phoenix reborn after the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.

Leaving Christchurch behind, we venture into the heart of the Southern Alps. These majestic mountains, cloaked in snow and mystery, beckon us to explore. Our lenses will capture the mirrored surfaces of glacial lakes—turquoise gems cradled by rugged peaks. At Lake Tekapo, the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd stands as a testament to the pioneers who carved a life in this challenging landscape.

Pano Ken Wright 7 - New Zealand

As the sun paints our adventures with fiery hues, we navigate the glacier-carved fiords, captivated by the very beauty that stirred director Peter Jackson to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy in this mystical land. Continuing along the South Island’s western coast, we immerse ourselves in lush rainforests, vast coastal vistas, and the enigmatic limestone formations of Punakaiki. A drive into Fiordland National Park and a scenic cruise through Milford Sound will be among the daily highlights of this South Island adventure.

So, pack your camera gear, charge your batteries, and join us on this incredible journey. Let your lens capture the essence of Middle Earth—a land where mountains touch the sky, verdant forests breathe ancient secrets, and every frame tells a tale of awe and inspiration. The panoramas of New Zealand’s South Island await, ready to reveal themselves through your viewfinder.

Pano Ken Wright 10 - New Zealand

Tour Itinerary

Day 1
Depart from home.

Day 2 (September 1, 2025)
Arrive in Christchurch. Upon customs clearance take a taxi from outside the arrivals terminal to our hotel.

Day 3
Embarking from Christchurch, we traverse the vast Canterbury plains, our compass pointing towards ethereal Lake Tekapo. As dawn’s first light kisses the horizon, we frame the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, its stone walls echoing tales of devotion against the backdrop of cerulean waters. But our photography doesn’t stop there. Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park awaits—a sanctuary of alpine grandeur. Here, Aoraki/Mt Cook, pierces the sky. Its snow-clad peaks guard the ancient geologic history etched into the very rock. As evening descends, we turn our lenses to the Tasman Valley, where icebergs occasionally drift serenely on mirrored lakes. And as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the mountains in hues of gold and rose, we find ourselves at the crossroads of nature and artistry. The Tasman Valley becomes a tapestry of light and shadow. Our shutters click, freezing these fleeting moments—a testament to the magic that unfolds when light meets land. (BLD)

Day 4
As the sun peeks above the horizon, it casts its golden glow upon the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Our hotel, nestled in the heart of this alpine wonderland, offers a front-row seat to nature’s grand performance just outside your door. After a day exploring the Mt Cook area, we head into the Hooker Valley, with New Zealand’s highest peaks piercing the sunset. New Zealand has some of the darkest skies in the world and is home to the largest International Dark Sky Reserve which encompasses the Aoraki/Mt Cook region. Weather permitting we will enjoy one of these nights focusing on astrophotography during our time here. (BLD)

Day 5
This morning, we catch the early light over Mt. Cook during sunrise. After breakfast, our journey will take us to Queenstown—New Zealand’s adrenaline-fueled adventure capital. Along the way, we’ll make a stop at one of the finest Bannockburn wineries for a delightful lunch and a wine tasting experience. Finally, in Queenstown, we won’t be bungee jumping, but we do capture the sunset from a breathtaking high viewpoint overlooking Lake Wakatipu. (BLD)

Day 6
We embark on a journey to the northern reaches of Lake Wakatipu, where the charming town of Glenorchy awaits. Our lenses ready, we capture the sunrise casting its golden glow over the tranquil waters, the rugged mountains, and the iconic jetty. But Glenorchy has more to offer than just visual splendor. As we explore this picturesque region, we’ll find ourselves stepping into the very heart of Middle Earth. Fans of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy will recognize Glenorchy as a significant filming location. We return to Queenstown in the afternoon. (BLD)

Day 7
On this travel day we capture sunrise over Lake Wakatipu, right from the doorstep of our hotel. Then we head southward toward the South Island’s largest lake, Te Anau—the Place of Swirling Waters. Our route will lead us through diverse landscapes as we stop along the way to photograph what interests us. This evening, we enjoy a sunset shoot over Lake Te Anau against a rugged backdrop of the Kepler and Murchison Mountain Ranges. (BLD)

Day 8
Today we set our sights for sunrise on Milford Sound following the through the Eglinton Valley. Our journey winds through majestic mountains, past brooding lakes, and mossy beech forests that cling to impossibly steep slopes. Milford Sound, one of the country’s most iconic locations, boasts granite peaks that soar more than a mile above the dark waters of the fiord. Enormous waterfalls cascade into the sea, creating a sense of scale and grandeur that must be witnessed to be believed. But we won’t merely admire from afar—we’ll board a cruise on the fiord, capturing this magical place from the water before returning to Te Anau. (BLD)

Day 9
This morning, we photograph the sunrise over Lake Te Anau right in front of our hotel. After a hearty breakfast, our journey will take us to historic Arrowtown, a picturesque riverside village steeped in gold rush history. Nestled alongside forest-clad mountains, Arrowtown provides the perfect backdrop for photographing the vibrant spring colors. Later this afternoon, we’ll head back to Wanaka to capture the sunset over the lake. (BLD)

Day 10
Today, we have a leisurely morning to explore Wanaka, a charming mountain town nestled alongside the lake. The renowned, beautifully isolated, Wanaka Tree awaits just a 5-minute stroll from our hotel, and the soft morning light provides an ideal opportunity to capture its beauty against the majestic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Later in the afternoon, we’ll embark on a four-wheel drive adventure to a remote mountain valley, where we’ll photograph the stunning and diverse landscapes until sunset. (BLD)

Day 11
This morning, you have another opportunity to visit the Wanaka Tree during sunrise. Following the dawn, and breakfast, we set off toward the West Coast, a region as remote as it gets in New Zealand. Along the way, we capture the beauty of numerous breathtaking waterfalls scattered throughout the Haast Pass. Our overnight accommodations are in Fox Glacier, a charming little village known for panoramic views of the Southern Alps and rugged coastline met by an ancient coastal wetland forest. (BLD)

Day 12
This morning, our lenses are trained on the serene Lake Matheson, where we capture the sunrise—a moment that unveils the often-perfect reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, New Zealand’s highest peaks. Later in the day, we venture northward to Punakaiki, renowned for its fascinating pancake rocks. These unique limestone formations, resembling stacks of pancakes, emerge dramatically from the pounding surf. As the sun sets, we’ll capture the dance of light and shadow on these ancient rocks. (BLD)

Day 13
At daybreak, our adventure continues as we explore the captivating limestone and river landscapes of Paparoa National Park. Throughout the day, we’ll continue our exploration, focusing on the extraordinary coastline that graces this region. As the sun descends, we’ll make our way to one of the stunning beaches, where we’ll immortalize the crashing waves and the final rays of light spotlighting the rugged coastline. (BLD)

Day 14 (September 13)
After shooting the sunrise this morning, we part ways with the breathtaking West Coast, heading inland through the famous Arthur's Pass to photograph our last mountain views. We return to Christchurch in the afternoon arriving in time for airport or hotel drop-offs. Participants should be in touch with our office before booking airline tickets. (B)

Day 15
Arrive home.

Tour Details

Aug 31 2025 – Sep 14 2025
Register Now
Fee: $13,995 from Christchurch, New Zealand
Deposit: $5,000
Limit: 10 Participants
Activity Level: Moderate
Single Supplement: $1,850

Tour Highlights

  • A comprehensive road trip around New Zealand’s spectacular South Island
  • Shoot, primeval forest, impressive mountains, glaciers and rugged coastline
  • Scenic boat cruise on Milford Sound
  • Off-road four-wheel drive excursion into the hill country above Lake Wanaka to capture panoramas from this stunning vantage point
  • Photograph the pristine coastline of Punakaiki with its famous “pancake rocks”
  •  New Zealand has some of the darkest skies in the world and is home to the largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Weather permitting photograph the starry sky over Mt. Cook
  • Trip includes all meals, lodging, ground transportation, Milford Sound cruise, 4X4 excursion, national park fees, photo guides and instruction

Tour Highlights

  • A comprehensive road trip around New Zealand’s spectacular South Island
  • Shoot, primeval forest, impressive mountains, glaciers and rugged coastline
  • Scenic boat cruise on Milford Sound
  • Off-road four-wheel drive excursion into the hill country above Lake Wanaka to capture panoramas from this stunning vantage point
  • Photograph the pristine coastline of Punakaiki with its famous “pancake rocks”
  •  New Zealand has some of the darkest skies in the world and is home to the largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Weather permitting photograph the starry sky over Mt. Cook
  • Trip includes all meals, lodging, ground transportation, Milford Sound cruise, 4X4 excursion, national park fees, photo guides and instruction

Tour Details

Aug 31 2025 – Sep 14 2025
Register Now
Fee: $13,995 from Christchurch, New Zealand
Deposit: $5,000
Limit: 10 Participants
Activity Level: Moderate
Single Supplement: $1,850
  • Tour Description

    Tour Description

    Welcome to a land where nature’s brushstrokes have painted a masterpiece—New Zealand’s South Island. This 13-day photographic adventure promises to immerse you in breathtaking vistas, sparkling glaciers, ancient forests, and a rich panoramic tapestry. From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the rugged glacially carved fiords, every frame you capture will tell a story of a land that brims with untouched natural beauty and amazing diversity.

    Pano Ken Wright 9 - New Zealand

    Nature began crafting the South Island around 30 million years ago—known as Te Waipounamu in Māori—it is a realm where ancient tales intertwine with rugged landscapes. For millennia, the Māori have long been the indigenous people of “Aotearoa.” Their arrival from their Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki, over a thousand years ago, marked the beginning of a profound connection between the land and its people.

    Our photo expedition commences in Christchurch, the gateway to the South Island. This vibrant city, with its blend of colonial heritage and modern flair, sets the stage for our photographic odyssey. As you wander through the Botanic Gardens or along the Avon River, you’ll feel the pulse of a city that has risen from adversity—a phoenix reborn after the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.

    Leaving Christchurch behind, we venture into the heart of the Southern Alps. These majestic mountains, cloaked in snow and mystery, beckon us to explore. Our lenses will capture the mirrored surfaces of glacial lakes—turquoise gems cradled by rugged peaks. At Lake Tekapo, the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd stands as a testament to the pioneers who carved a life in this challenging landscape.

    Pano Ken Wright 7 - New Zealand

    As the sun paints our adventures with fiery hues, we navigate the glacier-carved fiords, captivated by the very beauty that stirred director Peter Jackson to film The Lord of the Rings trilogy in this mystical land. Continuing along the South Island’s western coast, we immerse ourselves in lush rainforests, vast coastal vistas, and the enigmatic limestone formations of Punakaiki. A drive into Fiordland National Park and a scenic cruise through Milford Sound will be among the daily highlights of this South Island adventure.

    So, pack your camera gear, charge your batteries, and join us on this incredible journey. Let your lens capture the essence of Middle Earth—a land where mountains touch the sky, verdant forests breathe ancient secrets, and every frame tells a tale of awe and inspiration. The panoramas of New Zealand’s South Island await, ready to reveal themselves through your viewfinder.

    Pano Ken Wright 10 - New Zealand
  • Itinerary

    Tour Itinerary

    Day 1
    Depart from home.

    Day 2 (September 1, 2025)
    Arrive in Christchurch. Upon customs clearance take a taxi from outside the arrivals terminal to our hotel.

    Day 3
    Embarking from Christchurch, we traverse the vast Canterbury plains, our compass pointing towards ethereal Lake Tekapo. As dawn’s first light kisses the horizon, we frame the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, its stone walls echoing tales of devotion against the backdrop of cerulean waters. But our photography doesn’t stop there. Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park awaits—a sanctuary of alpine grandeur. Here, Aoraki/Mt Cook, pierces the sky. Its snow-clad peaks guard the ancient geologic history etched into the very rock. As evening descends, we turn our lenses to the Tasman Valley, where icebergs occasionally drift serenely on mirrored lakes. And as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the mountains in hues of gold and rose, we find ourselves at the crossroads of nature and artistry. The Tasman Valley becomes a tapestry of light and shadow. Our shutters click, freezing these fleeting moments—a testament to the magic that unfolds when light meets land. (BLD)

    Day 4
    As the sun peeks above the horizon, it casts its golden glow upon the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Our hotel, nestled in the heart of this alpine wonderland, offers a front-row seat to nature’s grand performance just outside your door. After a day exploring the Mt Cook area, we head into the Hooker Valley, with New Zealand’s highest peaks piercing the sunset. New Zealand has some of the darkest skies in the world and is home to the largest International Dark Sky Reserve which encompasses the Aoraki/Mt Cook region. Weather permitting we will enjoy one of these nights focusing on astrophotography during our time here. (BLD)

    Day 5
    This morning, we catch the early light over Mt. Cook during sunrise. After breakfast, our journey will take us to Queenstown—New Zealand’s adrenaline-fueled adventure capital. Along the way, we’ll make a stop at one of the finest Bannockburn wineries for a delightful lunch and a wine tasting experience. Finally, in Queenstown, we won’t be bungee jumping, but we do capture the sunset from a breathtaking high viewpoint overlooking Lake Wakatipu. (BLD)

    Day 6
    We embark on a journey to the northern reaches of Lake Wakatipu, where the charming town of Glenorchy awaits. Our lenses ready, we capture the sunrise casting its golden glow over the tranquil waters, the rugged mountains, and the iconic jetty. But Glenorchy has more to offer than just visual splendor. As we explore this picturesque region, we’ll find ourselves stepping into the very heart of Middle Earth. Fans of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy will recognize Glenorchy as a significant filming location. We return to Queenstown in the afternoon. (BLD)

    Day 7
    On this travel day we capture sunrise over Lake Wakatipu, right from the doorstep of our hotel. Then we head southward toward the South Island’s largest lake, Te Anau—the Place of Swirling Waters. Our route will lead us through diverse landscapes as we stop along the way to photograph what interests us. This evening, we enjoy a sunset shoot over Lake Te Anau against a rugged backdrop of the Kepler and Murchison Mountain Ranges. (BLD)

    Day 8
    Today we set our sights for sunrise on Milford Sound following the through the Eglinton Valley. Our journey winds through majestic mountains, past brooding lakes, and mossy beech forests that cling to impossibly steep slopes. Milford Sound, one of the country’s most iconic locations, boasts granite peaks that soar more than a mile above the dark waters of the fiord. Enormous waterfalls cascade into the sea, creating a sense of scale and grandeur that must be witnessed to be believed. But we won’t merely admire from afar—we’ll board a cruise on the fiord, capturing this magical place from the water before returning to Te Anau. (BLD)

    Day 9
    This morning, we photograph the sunrise over Lake Te Anau right in front of our hotel. After a hearty breakfast, our journey will take us to historic Arrowtown, a picturesque riverside village steeped in gold rush history. Nestled alongside forest-clad mountains, Arrowtown provides the perfect backdrop for photographing the vibrant spring colors. Later this afternoon, we’ll head back to Wanaka to capture the sunset over the lake. (BLD)

    Day 10
    Today, we have a leisurely morning to explore Wanaka, a charming mountain town nestled alongside the lake. The renowned, beautifully isolated, Wanaka Tree awaits just a 5-minute stroll from our hotel, and the soft morning light provides an ideal opportunity to capture its beauty against the majestic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Later in the afternoon, we’ll embark on a four-wheel drive adventure to a remote mountain valley, where we’ll photograph the stunning and diverse landscapes until sunset. (BLD)

    Day 11
    This morning, you have another opportunity to visit the Wanaka Tree during sunrise. Following the dawn, and breakfast, we set off toward the West Coast, a region as remote as it gets in New Zealand. Along the way, we capture the beauty of numerous breathtaking waterfalls scattered throughout the Haast Pass. Our overnight accommodations are in Fox Glacier, a charming little village known for panoramic views of the Southern Alps and rugged coastline met by an ancient coastal wetland forest. (BLD)

    Day 12
    This morning, our lenses are trained on the serene Lake Matheson, where we capture the sunrise—a moment that unveils the often-perfect reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman, New Zealand’s highest peaks. Later in the day, we venture northward to Punakaiki, renowned for its fascinating pancake rocks. These unique limestone formations, resembling stacks of pancakes, emerge dramatically from the pounding surf. As the sun sets, we’ll capture the dance of light and shadow on these ancient rocks. (BLD)

    Day 13
    At daybreak, our adventure continues as we explore the captivating limestone and river landscapes of Paparoa National Park. Throughout the day, we’ll continue our exploration, focusing on the extraordinary coastline that graces this region. As the sun descends, we’ll make our way to one of the stunning beaches, where we’ll immortalize the crashing waves and the final rays of light spotlighting the rugged coastline. (BLD)

    Day 14 (September 13)
    After shooting the sunrise this morning, we part ways with the breathtaking West Coast, heading inland through the famous Arthur's Pass to photograph our last mountain views. We return to Christchurch in the afternoon arriving in time for airport or hotel drop-offs. Participants should be in touch with our office before booking airline tickets. (B)

    Day 15
    Arrive home.

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Van Os Photo Safaris uses the information you provide to contact you about our upcoming tours, special offers, and trip reports. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time.
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