Four people in winter clothing stand in ankle-deep water of a calm lake with snow-capped mountains in the background, reflecting on the lake's surface, under a clear blue sky.

High-quality Gitzo tripods can be provided if you are travelling without your own. Please let us know ahead of time should you need one.

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Secrets of the South

New Zealand Photography Expedition

Embark on an enriching photo workshop across the captivating landscapes of New Zealand’s/Aotearoa, South Island/Te Waipounamu under the expert guidance of Chris McLennan, who proudly calls this stunning country his home.

2027 Departures - NOW BOOKING

Private departures available on demand to suit your schedule.

Trip Details

10 Days - 9 Nights ex Queenstown
Maximum group size 6 guests - We can also cater to private trips with a minimum of 2 guests.
Accommodation on a twin share basis (single supplements may be available upon request)

Inclusions / Exclusions

Includes accommodations, all meals, vehicle transportation, Milford Sound boat cruise, National Park fees, all activities, expert photography tuition and guiding.

Excludes international travel, visas, travel insurance, gratuities and alcoholic beverages.

Personalized guidance from renowned Nikon Ambassador Chris McLennan.

Chris has led photo expeditions not only in New Zealand but all around the world for the past 20 years.

You will learn professional techniques for composition, lighting, and storytelling. Chris will be there to assist you in enhancing your photography skills by sharing his extensive years of knowledge with you.

The Catlins

Chris spent many years holidaying with his family in this area whilst growing up. His knowledge of the location is invaluable to exploring this amazing area. From rainforests, spanning beaches, rocky coastlines and wetlands, the Catlins, provides a stunning backdrop for some of New Zealand's rarest animal species.

Nestled deep within the dense rainforests of the South Island, hidden waterfalls add an enchanting element to the already stunning landscapes of the Catlins.

A small waterfall flowing into a pool surrounded by lush green plants and moss in a rainforest setting, bathed in sunlight.

A sea lion sitting on the beach facing the ocean with waves and a rocky hill in the background in the catlins, new zealand.

Sunset over a beach with reflecting water, dark clouds in the sky, and hills in the distance.

A penguin standing on rocky ground in front of a textured black and gray rock face with green foliage above and to the sides.

The beauty of the expansive beaches is a delight for any photographer. The contrast between the sandy stretches and jagged coastal formations creates a visually captivating subject.

A scenic coastal landscape with a cliff on the left side, calm water reflecting the sky, rocks in the foreground, and a cloudy sky above.

Aerial view of a coastal landscape with green fields, cliffs, sandy beach, and ocean during sunset.

Te Anau / Milford Sound-Piopiotahi

Te Anau ‘The Place of Swirling Waters’, is the gateway to Fiordland National Park, home of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, ‘the eighth wonder of the world’.

We will drive along Milford Road through beech forests and infinite valleys.

During our time in Milford Sound, we will take a scenic cruise to capture images of the wildlife, towering waterfalls and impressive mountain peaks.

Lake Te Anau is the largest of the southern glacial lakes and our accommodation offers spectacular views of the mountains and lake.

A misty mountain forest with tall trees, fog, and waterfalls.

A young girl in red clothing stands on the shore in a calm body of water surrounded by tall, snowy, cloud-covered mountains in Milford Sound

Amidst the backdrop of the steep granite mountain peaks and the dark waters of Milford Sound, iconic waterfalls cascade down with graceful magnificence.

A native new zealand bird, a kea bird with outstretched wings shows colors of brown, orange, yellow, and black, flying against a white background.

A scenic view of a tall, cascading waterfall flowing down a rocky, green forested cliffside on a cloudy, stormy day in Milford Sound

Close-up of a native new zealand bird, a tui with black beak, iridescent black and green feathers, and a white fluffy patch on its neck, set against a blurred green background.

Glenorchy/Tahuna

The place we call home. We take pleasure in revealing exclusive hidden gems that we love photographing.

Glenorchy is the gateway to Paradise, and we will take you there. We are surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, pristine lakes, lush forests and diverse birdlife, offering an abundance of photo opportunities.

Scenic view of snow-capped mountains under pink and purple clouds at dusk, with a dark forest and a calm river in the foreground.

A forest landscape featuring a rushing river, tall trees, and a waterfall in the background shrouded in mist.

Night sky with green and purple aurora australis over mountains and a calm lake. The Glenorchy wharf with a bright light extends into the water, reflecting the sky's colors.

Night sky filled with stars and the Milky Way galaxy over a peaceful landscape. In the foreground, a red building with a sign that says "Glenorchy" and a small boat dock illuminated by a streetlight. Trees and mountains are visible in the background.

OPTIONAL ADD-ON - Earnslaw Burn via helicopter

As we soar past the stunning blue ice of the hanging glacier, we'll make our descent and touch down on the valley floor, which sits over 1,000 meters below! Once landed, we will take our time to capture the beauty of the fast-flowing waterfalls and glacier-fed streams through your lens.

Half-day photography/helicopter experience to Earnslaw Burn from Glenorchy with lunch.

Earnslaw Burn is an exclusive to our photography workshops.

Add-on prices will vary depending on the number of guests on the trip.

A yellow and green helicopter flying near a rugged mountain landscape with cascading waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, rocky cliffs, and a sparse grassy valley.

Snow-covered mountain peaks with a cascading waterfall and a flowing river in the foreground, under a clear blue sky.

A person in a red jacket sitting on moss-covered rocks near a large waterfall flowing down a steep cliffside, with a blue sky and wispy clouds in the background.

Scenic landscape of a mountain valley featuring a cascading waterfall, snow-capped peaks, and a flowing river in the foreground.

New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it. The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations.