ABOUT THE TOUR

dates: September 12-19, 2026

Join us this September for an unforgettable Photography Tour in New Zealand’s South Island, designed especially for photographers who crave both awe-inspiring landscapes and magical night skies. September transforms New Zealand’s South Island into a photographer’s paradise. Verdant valleys, snow capped peaks, blossoming trees, and crystal-clear lakes all come to life under soft seasonal light. But this tour offers more than just golden hours and grand vistas. We’ll also be dedicating time to astrophotography, chasing clear skies to capture the Milky Way and, if we’re lucky, the ethereal Aurora Australis (Southern Lights). September is one of the best times of year for night sky photography in New Zealand, especially with the equinox increasing auroral activity.

Throughout the journey, we’ll guide you through thoughtfully selected locations, both iconic and off the beaten path, helping you find and frame your best shots. Whether you're an experienced shooter or just starting out, we offer personalized support, hands-on guidance, and a creative and collaborative environment to help you grow your skills.

itinerary

Day 1: Queenstown to Te Anau

We start with a scenic drive from Queenstown to Te Anau, a quiet town near Milford Sound. In the evening, we'll shoot sunset at Te Anau Downs, a beautiful lakeside spot with great reflections. After dark, we’ll head out for astrophotography, capturing the Milky Way from the Te Anau wharf or Lake Henry, depending on sky conditions. It’s a relaxed first day with golden light and a chance to shoot the stars.

where to stay: alpine view, te anau

A cozy and convenient stay located just minutes away from our sunset and astrophotography spots. Its strategic location makes it easy to access key shooting areas around Te Anau, perfect for both early starts and late-night sessions.

Day 2: MILFORD SOUND TO GLENORCHY

Our second day starts bright and early with a sunrise spectacle at the magnificent Milford Sound. Here we will hop on a two-hour scenic cruise, immersing ourselves in the fjord’s stunning beauty, which includes countless mesmerizing waterfalls cascading down the rugged cliffs. At night, and if weather permits, we’ll try to capture the milky way rising over the famous Glenorchy Wharf which will also be our location for the sunrise shoot.

where to stay: GY BOUTIQUE Hotel, glenorchy

Overlooking the mountain, Gy Boutique Hotel Glenorchy is within a short walking distance of Made in Glenorchy Art Gallery. The centre of Glenorchy is a 5 minutes' walk of the hotel. The property is 350 metres from Glenorchy Lagoon Scenic Walkway.

Day 3: Wanaka / pukaki

We start the day with a sunrise shoot in Glenorchy, along the wharf or scenic lakeside walkway. Then we make our way to Wanaka to photograph the famous Wanaka Tree. In the afternoon, we travel to Pukaki, where we’ll shoot sunset in one of the quiet scenic spots around the area. After checking in, we’ll head out again for night photography, with a chance to capture the stars in the clear Pukaki skies.

Day 4: mount cook / tasman lake/pukaki

On Day 4, we explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak. We’ll photograph Mount Cook from various spots, including viewpoints along the Hooker Valley Track. By sunset, we’ll visit Tasman Lake for a dramatic mountain backdrop before heading back to the air lodge where can also shoot the night sky.

where to stay: pukaki air lodge, pukaki (day 3&4)

An airstrip converted into a cozy lodge, this unique accommodation sits right in the heart of an International Dark Sky Reserve, surrounded by open landscapes and little to no light pollution. It’s the perfect setting for stargazing and astrophotography, offering clear, uninterrupted views of the night sky.
We’ll be spending two nights here, taking full advantage of the peaceful location and indulging in long sessions under the stars.

Day 5: tekapo

spots in New Zealand. This will be our base for both sunrise and sunset photography, offering stunning light and reflections across the lake. If conditions are favorable, we’ll also make our way to Mount John Observatory for a night shoot, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Lake Tekapo, the Southern Alps, and the Mackenzie Basin, all under some of the clearest skies in the world.

where to stay: catch & relax, tekapo

We’ll be staying in Lake Tekapo, a scenic town famous for its turquoise lake, alpine views, and world-class astrophotography opportunities. Located within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, Tekapo boasts some of the clearest and darkest skies in the world. With minimal light pollution, it’s the perfect place to capture the Milky Way, constellations, and the beauty of the night sky in incredible detail.

Day 6: Queenstown night sky

Day 6 brings us back to Queenstown, where we’ll take some time to enjoy the city’s energy, strolling through its streets, checking out local spots, and taking in the lakeside views. As night falls, we’ll ride the Gondola for a panoramic view of the town lights below. Later in the evening, we’ll head to one of our chosen locations to photograph the Milky Way, conditions permitting.

where to stay: double tree by hilton, queenstown

Our accommodation in Queenstown offers a quiet retreat away from the busy city center—ideal for resting and recharging between shoots. It’s also well-positioned for easy access to our sunset and night photography locations, including our planned Milky Way session.

Day 7: Queenstown day shoot

Day 6 brings us back to Queenstown, where we’ll take some time to enjoy the city’s energy, strolling through its streets, checking out local spots, and taking in the lakeside views. As night falls, we’ll ride the Gondola for a panoramic view of the town lights below. Later in the evening, we’ll head to one of our chosen locations to photograph the Milky Way, conditions permitting.

your guides for this trip

FEE:

$3,200 (USD) - twin sharing / $3,700 (USD) - solo room

Inclusions:

Accommodation for 7 days and 6 nights (additional $500 for solo room)
Car Rental and Car Insurance (transport service)
Petrol
Park fees and entrances
Milford Sound Cruise
Queenstown Gondola
Queenstown Dinner buffet

Exclusions:

Airfares to and from Queenstown, New Zealand (ZQN)
Meals ( breakfast included in some hotels)
Visa Fees
Personal Expenses (laundry, mobile data, etc.)
Travel Insurance
Other expenses not included in the inclusions

**Monthly installment options are available upon request. Just message us for more details.**

things to note

- post processing

Weather happens. And in case of poor weather, we’ll make most of our time by holding a post processing session for the group

- Rest is part of the plan

We’ve built in downtime during the day so everyone can rest and recharge before heading out for night shoots. Having clear mind and rested body to make better photos.

- small group, big experience

We keep the group small (max 6 participants) to give everyone plenty of space, guidance, and time to shoot without feeling rushed.

- flexible itinerary

All shooting locations are carefully chosen for the best light and conditions. However, locations may change based on weather or access. But rest assured that we have backup spots prepared to ensure we still get great shooting opportunities.