Aotearoa - Land of the Long White Cloud

Well known for its dramatic landscapes, New Zealand (or ‘Aotearoa’ in the traditional Maori language) feels like something of a visual paradise. Majestic snow-capped mountains that extend right to the shoreline, beaches that extend for miles without a soul in sight and tropical rainforests make for aesthetic stimulation at every turn.

However, it’s in the culture and atmosphere of this land that I found my stimulation. The Maori and pacific island people speak of their connection through a series of traditional tales and folklore. From creation stories to guidance on their inter-connectivity with the land, it’s clear that this special landmass offers far more than stunning topography.

So, how does a photographer attempt to do justice to both this grandeur and heritage? Essentially it’s an impossible task, especially in a short time period. Instead we must listen to the land and seek to forge some connection if possible. Much of my time here was spent exploring small scenes and inner landscapes, often when the full scale is overwhelming I find it’s best to start small. It was hard to avoid stunning vistas throughout my time, nor did I seek to, but I found the most satisfying time was spent exploring the smaller scale and seeking to work with the natural flow and rhythm of the land…