New Zealand Travel Guide for Photography

Let us travel together to the other end of the world! But where exactly is the other end of the world for us Europeans? What really defines this country, where it is summer when we have winter, and is it truly as overwhelming as everyone who has been there claims?

This is roughly how the conversation sounded between my partner, my friends, and me when I was planning my three-month trip and before I even thought about falling head over heels in love with this country. With its Māori culture, rugged and diverse coasts, and unparalleled natural diversity, this island duo succeeds in transporting me, as a photographer, directly to that almost childlike sense of adventure.

New Zealand consists of the North and South Islands, separated by the Cook Strait, yet intrinsically linked in their essence: endlessly rolling hills where soft light casts its shadowed forms; deep-green rainforests where one is lost in fascination; beaches full of surging waves that crash against towering cliffs; glaciers that seem like frozen witnesses of an older world, and volcanoes that, notably, play a decisive role in the film adaptation of Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings."

While I was traveling there - on long road trips, between spontaneous roadside stops, and during early morning hours when only the wind was my conversation partner - a feeling emerged that returns every time I lift my camera: New Zealand doesn't force you to search for a picture. It shows it to you. And that is precisely why every shot here feels like an invitation to capture a piece of this country before the moment moves on.

1. What are some of the most iconic places to photograph in New Zealand?

1.1. The Most Popular (North Island)

1. Tongariro National Park: For me, the National Park is one of the most impressive landscapes on the North Island. This is where volcanism meets alpine expanse. The mountains Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu dominate the park's visual identity - rugged, dark, and almost mystical. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is particularly well-known: a day hike that leads through crater landscapes, pastel-colored sulfur lakes, and across wind-swept ridges. For several kilometers, the route feels like walking on another planet. The park is significant not only for its nature: the cone-shaped Ngauruhoe was immortalized as Mount Doom in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, which attracts many fans. In addition to the Crossing, there is also the Tongariro Northern Circuit, one of ten excellent "Great Walks." This 41-kilometer route, designed to take four days, showcases New Zealand's wild, primal volcanic side and offers many panoramic views in a less tourist-heavy atmosphere.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Tongariro Crossing Emerald Lake Lookout

2. Mount Taranaki: At first glance, Mount Taranaki looks like a perfect painting - a nearly symmetrical volcano that rises proudly from the green landscape of the West Coast near New Plymouth. At 2,518 meters (8,261 feet) in height, it is not only one of New Zealand's most distinctive mountains but is also considered a sacred site by the Māori, surrounded by stories, traditions, and deep cultural significance. The Egmont National Park surrounding the mountain offers numerous ways to experience Taranaki: dense rainforests and waterfalls, moss-covered paths, alpine zones, and clear mountain lakes that display its reflection in good weather. For me, the loop track at Lake Mangamahoe and the famous Pouakai Tarns Track are highlights because they show the iconic "perfect cone" with impressive clarity, provided the wind and weather cooperate. Those who are well-prepared and experienced can even climb the summit - a demanding tour that heavily relies on weather and conditions but rewards hikers with incredible views over the coast and the surrounding plains.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Syme Hut, Mount Taranaki

3. Hobbiton (from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit): Hobbiton is one of the most popular hotspots on the North Island - and rightly so. The village of the hobbits from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films is lovingly preserved and recreated with rich detail, from the small round doors and tiny gardens to the affectionate details within the structures. Visitors must participate in guided tours that lead through the cinematic landscape and the green farmland, including a stop at the Green Dragon Inn for a drink. Even though the place is heavily frequented, it conveys an almost magical feeling and demonstrates how closely cinematic art and the New Zealand landscape converge. Anyone who is a fan of the films or simply a lover of beautiful photo spots should definitely plan a visit to Hobbiton.

1.2. The Most Popular (South Island)

1. Wharariki Beach: Wharariki Beach is one of the wildest and, at the same time, most photogenic beaches on the South Island. The distinctive sea stacks off the coast, known to many as the subject of a Windows desktop wallpaper used for many years, stand like gigantic sculptures in the sea and constantly change depending on the light and the tide. Wide sandy areas, wind, dune grass, and often absolute tranquility make the beach a place that feels both secluded and iconic.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Archway Islands

2. Mount Cook National Park: Mount Cook National Park is the alpine heart of the South Island and home to New Zealand’s highest mountain: Aoraki / Mount Cook. At the end of the incredibly turquoise Lake Pukaki, we encounter massive glaciers, sharp-edged peaks, and ice-blue lakes. The particularly popular Hooker Valley Track leads along well-maintained paths through moraine fields and over swing bridges to Hooker Lake, where drifting icebergs often lie directly in front of the iconic mountain backdrop. Attention: Due to construction work on the swing bridges, this track is closed until the end of 2026. Nevertheless, a visit is still worthwhile due to the many other hiking opportunities. The park is one of those places that are easy to reach but hard to forget.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Lake Pukaki Viewpoint, Hayman Road

3. Milford Sound: This is arguably the most impressive flagship of Fiordland National Park - one of the rainiest places on Earth. This is precisely what makes the landscape truly come alive, as hundreds of formed waterfalls cascade down the steep walls into the fjord. Fog, shredded clouds, and suddenly breaking light make Milford Sound constantly look different. With this mystical atmosphere, this fjord is definitely one of those places where you realize how small you actually are in this immense landscape.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Bowen Falls, Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park

1.3. Hidden Gems (North and South Island)

1. The Wild West Coast of the South Island: Here you experience a truly rugged side of New Zealand - wild, remote, and often marked by the weather. Dense rainforest, multi-colored beaches, and the powerful Tasman Sea collide directly. In between lies the only coastal road connection, which offers many convincing panoramic views. Places like the Pancake Rocks near Punakaiki, the glacier region near Franz Josef and Fox, or the endless, deserted, sometimes unnamed beaches make the West Coast so special. Lots of rain, rapidly changing light, and nature that refuses to be tamed: this is exactly what gives this section its unmistakable character.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: West coast at New Zealand State Highway 6

2. Numerous Mountain Huts (North and South Island): They are the hidden true heart of the outdoor experience on the islands. Distributed across the entire country, from the Southern Alps to the volcanic landscapes of the North Island, they offer simple, often very remote, accommodation for hikers and climbers. Some of these must be booked in advance via the Department of Conservation website. For others, the place goes to the person who arrives at the hut first. The huts range from rustic single-room shelters to larger multi-bunk huts with wood-burning stoves and water tanks, always simple, but exactly right after a long day in nature. What makes them so special is not the luxury, but the atmosphere. Here you meet like-minded people, exchange stories, and share a common passion: living the New Zealand outdoor culture.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Lake Mackenzie Hut, Routeburn Track, Fiordland National Park

3. Te Matatini Festival (location changes annually): Immerse yourself in Māori culture! Te Matatini is one of New Zealand’s most significant cultural events, and we were fortunate enough to experience it ourselves in 2025. Every two years during the New Zealand summer, the country’s best Kapa Haka groups gather here - a rousing interplay of song, dance, rhythm, and deeply rooted Māori tradition. We ourselves were so emotionally moved at times that we had tears in our eyes after the performances. How vibrantly and proudly the people represented their culture was impressive. Anyone interested in cultural festivals can also visit events like the Pasifika Festival in Auckland, the Matariki Festival celebrating the Māori New Year, or the Waitangi Day Festival in the North. It is 100% worth it!

2. Preparation

2.1. Which seasons are best suited for photography in New Zealand? What is the weather like?

This completely depends on you and your preference. For dramatic moods and diverse weather, spring, between September and November, and autumn, from March to May, are best. Those who love snow and clear nights should come during winter, between June and August. Summer, from December to February, in turn, offers the greatest certainty of stable and warmer weather. This is when the maximum diversity of the country can be traveled to the fullest extent. I personally prioritize summer for this reason. On one hand, as a European, you escape the sometimes rather dreary winter landscape. On the other hand, the mountain passes in the country are navigable, all hiking trails are open, and the campervan life comes into its own the most.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Mueller Lake and Hooker Lake view, Mount Cook National Park

2.2. Which mode of transportation is best suited for New Zealand?

The most flexible way to travel in New Zealand is by car or campervan. The roads are well-maintained, many highlights are remote, and public transportation only covers the most important locations. Having your own vehicle allows for spontaneous stops, early starts for sunrises, and access to remote hiking trails. I traveled the North Island by car and the South Island by campervan, allowing me to experience both. For me, the campervan offers the greatest feeling of freedom: you always have your bed, your kitchen, and your small home with you, and you can decide anew every day where you will stay overnight. Thanks to the many paid campgrounds, simple DOC (Department of Conservation) sites, and designated Freedom Camping areas, you have an incredible number of options - from secluded lakesides to spots nestled in the middle of the mountains. For me, wanting to be independent and close to nature, the campervan was often the best choice.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Crown Range Summit

2.3. Healthcare and Medication

From a travel medicine perspective, New Zealand is straightforward. Unlike its "neighbor, Australia," there are no insects or snakes that are deadly to humans here. Healthcare is good, and pharmacies are found everywhere in cities and larger towns. It is important to bring regularly needed medication in sufficient quantity, as remote regions - especially on the South Island - are often hours away from the nearest pharmacy. As in any country with good medical care, it is essential to have proper travel health insurance with explicit coverage for outdoor activities. This is primarily about mountain rescue. The excellent rescue system, which includes helicopter operations, also comes with high costs. Furthermore, in nature, the weather can change extremely quickly. Many injuries occur due to hypothermia, lack of visibility, or misjudgement of the terrain—so it is better to contact the local DOC (Department of Conservation) information centers in the national parks, hut wardens/rangers, and/or check weather services one time more than necessary.

2.4. Entry and Precautionary Measures

New Zealand takes the protection of its unique nature extremely seriously - and you notice this as soon as you enter the country. Every traveler goes through a Biosecurity Check, where outdoor equipment, shoes, clothing, and camping gear are scrutinized. Dirt, soil, seeds, or small insects are not allowed to be brought into the country because they could carry diseases or invasive species into the sensitive ecosystems. Those who disregard the rules not only risk high penalties but also endanger the very nature they wish to experience. Therefore, clean shoes, dry equipment, and conscious behavior are the first steps in preserving New Zealand's pristine landscapes, mountains, beaches, and forests for yourself, for future travelers, and for the residents themselves.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Kea around French Ridge Hut

2.5. Budget and Finances

This is arguably the trickiest aspect when deciding whether to travel to the country or find an alternative. New Zealand is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also truly expensive. The reasons for this include high import costs, strong environmental and quality standards, and seasonal demand driven by tourism. A first hurdle is the flights, which, for example, from my home country of Germany, take a very long time and cost a correspondingly high amount.

The price of mobility is also exemplary. A simple rental car costs around 60 Euros per day, while an SUV costs 95 Euros already. Insurance often has to be added to this. For a simple, smaller campervan, prices start at 100 Euros and go up to 350 Euros per day, depending on the size and features. Here, too, insurance costs and camping fees must be factored in. If you choose paid DOC (Department of Conservation) sites, the price is between 5–15 Euros per person. For commercial campsites with more comfort, it is 20–30 Euros per vehicle. Not to forget is petrol/gasoline. Consumption is quite high due to the many kilometers covered. Of course, there is also the option of buying a used campervan, getting it insured, and then selling it again afterward. There are several markets for this, especially in the large cities. There are also online platforms, including Facebook pages with sales exchanges. However, those who do not bring flexible time at the end risk not selling the van in time and may have to lower the price. The cost of living is comparable to some European countries.

In summary, everyone must decide for themselves how much "luxury" they need, how often they prepare their own meals, how regularly "comfort" is important, and if they might spend the nights in simple huts or tents once in a while.

For my New Zealand adventure, including flights, the mixed car/campervan trip, paid and free campsites, several hut visits, tent overnights, mostly self-catering with frequent café visits, but also some highlights like the Milford Sound Cruise and booked Great Walks, I paid an average of 5000 Euros per month. Payment is made using the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), which, as of November 2025, has an exchange rate to the Euro of 1 NZD = 0.49 Euro. This can always be done easily with your credit card. Cash is only required when paying for huts on-site, where money boxes are set up.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Unnamed beach near Ship Creek

Photography Equipment

3.1. Camera Recommendation

Fundamentally, every photographer or individual interested in images must ask themselves what kind of photography they pursue and what intentions they bring with them.

Lens Selection for the Canon R5 in New Zealand:

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8: My main lens during hikes. This lens was used the most. It covers a good dynamic range in focal length, displays an image language at the most common level for people, and, with an appropriate holder (e.g., Capture from Peak Design) on the backpack strap, it is quickly accessible without placing too much weight on one side. Simply great for the spontaneous shot.

Sigma 14mm f/1.8: Less frequent use but of incredible value. The night sky over New Zealand is simply breathtaking and probably one of the most beautiful in the world. Additionally, with strong solar winds, you have the chance to capture the Southern Lights. Therefore, as soon as good nighttime weather was forecasted, this lens found a place in my backpack.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Aurora Australis at Sefton Bivouac, Mount Cook National Park

Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1: Here, I opted for this lens instead of the RF 70-200mm f/2.8. The weight is not very conducive on the mountain, but the lens pays off with entirely new perspectives and possibilities. Especially given the vast distances to the mountains and mountain ranges, great pictures of individual distant mountains and details bathed in alpine glow could be captured. Nevertheless, at least for multi-day tours, I would probably reconsider whether the RF 70-200mm f/2.8 would not be sufficient.

Further Equipment:

Fuji X100VI: My secret favorite. In New Zealand, personal storytelling fulfilled me the most. It was the many small moments, spontaneous photos of new friends, details like the steaming old kettle in the golden light, or the imperfectly blurry photo that made it perfect. For this, this small, light, and compact camera is worth its weight in gold.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Fjordview over Gertrude Saddle, Fiordland National Park

Mavic 3 Pro (Drone): My drone was used very little in New Zealand. There are extremely strict regulations that must be adhered to. Especially in the National Parks, many bird species live there that must not be disturbed. Furthermore, there is quite a bit of air traffic (helicopters, etc.). The initial sense of frustration ultimately transformed into an internal, soothing feeling: Less weight in the backpack, more focus and perspective searching with the camera in hand!

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Duke´s Nose (Kaiaraara Rocks), Totara North

3.2. Tips for Trekking with Gear

For every hike, you should carefully consider what you hope to gain from the spot and how long the tour will last. For example, if you have a day tour ahead of you, you can easily fall back on your camera backpack, fill it additionally with enough water and food, and take all your equipment with you. If you embark on a multi-day trekking tour, you should definitely set priorities. For instance, I always forwent a second camera body or the drone entirely. Again, it depends on the total capacity of your trekking backpack and what other functional products you carry with you, depending on pack size and weight. It can be helpful to coordinate with your hiking companion so that each person only takes a different focal length on a tour and the cameras are shared. In this case, it is naturally advantageous to be familiar with the other person's system or, ideally, to have the same one.

4. The Ten Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling to New Zealand

1. Underestimating Time/Distances: Distances in New Zealand are often underestimated. Both islands are huge, and even though there is a well-developed road system, the speed limits and often winding roads are a factor, resulting in many hours of travel time. Therefore, I recommend prioritizing key highlights rather than rushing to see everything, and allowing more time to enjoy selected locations.

2. Internal Stress Factor: New Zealand offers so many possibilities of beautiful nature that you want to see everything. But that will simply not be possible during your trip. Whether due to long distances, the weather, or just the thousands of spots you want to experience. New Zealand is a country that is meant to purify you, calm you down internally, and where you mostly let yourself drift. It is completely okay if you skip or miss places. In return, you will have had the opportunity to develop special personal feelings in other beautiful places or discover something new that was not yet well-known.

3. Accommodation (Wrong Camper): New Zealand thrives on flexible travel. Anyone who doesn't travel in a campervan, or at least a car, is simply too restricted. Furthermore, it is important for campers to note that they need to have a permanently installed toilet (self-containment). Otherwise, there are extra restrictions on available campsites.

4. Freedom Camping in Unauthorized Areas: Caution! This is prohibited. Extremely high fines are imposed. There are simply so many campsites and parking options in New Zealand that it would truly be a big mistake to take this risk.

5. Ignoring Environmental Protection: New Zealand is one of the countries that places the highest value on environmental protection. Leaving trash behind or walking off marked paths destroys the landscape and is also subject to high penalties. Moreover, this would be doubly foolish, as the preserved natural landscape is precisely why people travel to the country.

6. Unclean Equipment (Biosecurity): New Zealand's isolated islands have strict and very rigorous entry conditions. This is related to the sensitive ecosystem and primarily concerns equipment, shoes, outdoor clothing, or food. Many plant and animal species exist only here, and the country lacks natural defense mechanisms against certain pests or diseases common elsewhere. Therefore, check everything twice for cleanliness before entering. Violators risk high penalties here, too.

7. Underestimating the Weather: Not only does the decision about the time of year play a major role in meeting your needs. Underestimating sudden changes in the mountains, heavy rain, or rough coastal conditions can also become a problem. Always inform yourself early about current weather developments and plan alternatives to mitigate risk.

8. Ignoring Hotspots (Acceptance of Crowds): Everyone knows it. You see a photo of a place and think "wow," how secluded this paradisiacal place must be! "Behind the scenes" videos then reveal completely different circumstances. And so it is in New Zealand. Whether it’s Milford Sound, the Tongariro Crossing after sunrise, precisely timed tours in Hobbiton, or crowds on the Hooker Valley Track, acceptance before ignorance helps to deal with this adequately and allows you to visit less touristy places a few hours later.

9. Spontaneously Planning Great Walks: The ten so-called "Great Walks" are recognized as the most beautiful hikes and are correspondingly popular. They are usually fully booked months in advance for the season or only sporadically available if there are cancellations. Therefore, booking well in advance is recommended. Should the desired period for the route suddenly no longer fit, you can often still cancel the huts, sometimes even free of charge.

10. Wrong Insurance: Outdoor activities such as mountain tours, climbing, or boat trips entail risks. Often, only basic medical care is covered; helicopter rescue operations or repatriation must be privately secured through specialized insurance.

Get the exact geo-position for this spot: Spot behind the Peak, Kepler Track, Fiordland National Park