Photo nature trip in Nouvelle-Zélande
Kiwis & Wildlife 15 days Charm & Character

Photo nature trip in Nouvelle-Zélande

Capture the wild essence of the South Island with two passionate photographers

22 years of local expertise4.91/5 (60 reviews including 56 Google)

Duration

15 days

Ideal seasons

Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

Charm & Character

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends, groupe

The spirit of travel

Discover the exceptional sites of the South Island of Nouvelle-Zélande, accompanied by Yoann and Marios, photographers and professional guides based in the country. A unique trip to bring back superb photos!
- Accompaniment by two professional photographers: Yoann and Marios, local experts, will guide you throughout the trip.
- Exclusive small group: A maximum of 8 participants for a personalized and friendly experience.
- Iconic and diverse sites: Explore essential places such as Golden Bay, the West Coast, Arthur's Pass National Park, Mount Cook National Park, Milford Sound, Dunedin, the Otago Peninsula, and Wanaka.
- Diverse photo sessions: Discover and practice different photographic themes adapted to nature.
- Support for beginners: Receive a cheat sheet to improve your skills and an A2 print of your best photo as a souvenir.

15-day trip: From Nelson on March 31, 2026 to Queenstown on April 14, 2026, for a complete adventure.

The stages of your journey

D1
NelsonHotel/Motel/Lodge 4*
D2
Golden BayHotel/Motel/Lodge 4 *
D3
Punakaiki4-star Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D4
Lake Brunner4* Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D5
Methven4-star Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D6
Mount Cook Village4* Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D7
Mount Cook VillageHotel/Motel/Lodge 4*
D8
Dunedin4-star Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D9
Dunedin4* Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D10
Wānaka4-star Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D11
WānakaHotel/Motel/Lodge 4*
D12
Te Anau4* Hotel/Motel/Lodge
D13
Milford SoundAboard the cruise ship
D14–15
QueenstownHotel/Motel/Lodge 4*

Highlights

Expert local photography guides
Maximum group of 8 participants
Iconic varied sites
Diversified Photography Techniques
Night aboard Milford Sound
A2 souvenir print included

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Discover Nelson: an unforgettable stay begins here!

We meet in the late afternoon in the charming sunny town of Nelson. An opportunity to get to know the group, the photographers, and discover the detailed program. We will evaluate together the level and expectations of each participant, marking the beginning of an unforgettable stay!

A welcome dinner will close out this first day.

Hotel/Motel/Lodge 4*Dinner
Jour 2
D2

Golden Bay and sunset at Wharariki: a magical moment

Nelson → Golden Bay

4h235 km

We head towards Golden Bay, crossing the Tataka mountain range.

After exploring the bohemian region of Takaka, we arrive at the end of the world, at Cape Farewell, to admire the Wharariki Beach and its spectacular sunset. If you feel at the end of the world, that's normal, you are! This site offers a multitude of composition ideas for photographers seeking breathtaking landscapes.

Hotel/Motel/Lodge 4 *Dinner
Jour 3
D3

Discovery of the Pancake Rocks and Spectacular Landscapes of Kahurangi

Golden Bay → Punakaiki

4h45330 km

Today, rock is in the spotlight! We start with the exploration of limestone blocks strangely shaped by rata tree roots, in an atmosphere worthy of an adventure film.

Then, we skirt around the Kahurangi National Park and cross the Buller Gorge before arriving at the famous Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki. The surrounding areas are full of very graphic sites that we will explore and photograph.

4-star Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfastDinner
Jour 4
D4

Lush forest, Pororari Gorges and immersion in the 19th century at Shanty Town

Punakaiki → Lake Brunner

30min90 km

This morning, the lush forest and wild beach of Truman Track welcome us before we set off to discover the nearby gorges of the Pororari River. The challenge here is to capture the harmony between the mountains, the river, the dense forest, the birds and the sky through the lens!

Then a visit to the reconstructed mining town of Shantytown Heritage Park immerses us in the heart of the 19th century. It is quite a different photographic style that awaits us. A trail then takes us into the primary forest, on the edge of the vast and wild Lake Brunner.

4* Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfastDinner
Jour 5
D5

Crossing the Southern Alps and Discovering the Geological Formations of Castle Hill

Lake Brunner → Methven

2h45200 km

We cross the Southern Alps via the village of Arthurs Pass, exploring a spectacular waterfall in this mountainous national park. You will then have time to wander at your leisure among the amazing geological formations of Castle Hill. The photographic opportunities are so numerous that it becomes a real challenge to make choices!

We then continue our journey towards the vast Canterbury Plains, which extend at the foot of the foothills of the Nouvelle-Zélande Alps.

4-star Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfast
Jour 6
D6

Ashburton Lakes, Mackenzie Country and the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook

A small detour takes us to the Ashburton Lakes, a set of natural bodies of water surrounded by arid mountains. If the wind gives us a little respite, the mirror effect will be guaranteed!

We then continue our journey by climbing back in altitude to reach the vast landscapes of Mackenzie Country, with stops at Lake Tekapo and several viewpoints over Lake Pukaki.

Our final destination of the day is the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where the country's highest mountains rise.

4* Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfastDinner
Jour 7
D7

Hiking in the mountains and sunset over Aoraki/Mount Cook

Today, we explore the mountains with hikes in Hooker Valley and at the Tasman Glacier viewpoint. Rocks, ice, streams, raw nature is ready to offer infinite composition ideas.

And what if the day ended with a spectacular sunset over the country's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook ? You will also have time to soak in the solitude of the alpine landscapes while capturing their beauty with your camera.

Hotel/Motel/Lodge 4*BreakfastDinner
Jour 8
D8

Fairy Chimneys, Victorian Architecture and Scottish Heritage in Dunedin

We start the day admiring the Omarama fairy chimneys, before descending the Waitaki valley with a stop near a hydroelectric dam, where autumn colours blend perfectly with the blue water of the river.

Arriving by the sea, we stop to photograph the limestone Victorian architecture of Oamaru, with a multitude of photographic details to capture.

At the end of the day, you will have time to stroll through Dunedin's historic centre, with its spires and monuments, testifying to its rich Scottish heritage.

4-star Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfastDinner
Jour 9
D9

Encounter with marine animals in the Otago Peninsula and little penguins

Dunedin → Dunedin

1h50 km

Today, animals will take centre stage! The wild coasts of the Otago Peninsula are teeming with seabirds, particularly royal albatrosses.

We will set out to meet them and, during a 1-hour cruise, we may even have the chance to encounter marine mammals in their natural habitat. Practical tips will be given to capture beautiful shots, even in more challenging conditions than on land!

At the end of the day, we will discover a colony of little penguins, the smallest penguins in the world, in a private reserve. The challenge will be to capture a lovely portrait of these seabirds at nightfall

4* Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfast
Jour 10
D10

Tunnel Beach, Central Otago Landscapes and Autumn Immersion in Wanaka

Dunedin → Wānaka

3h30275 km

This morning, a short but steep coastal path leads us to the spectacular cliffs of Tunnel Beach. An opportunity to play with the waves crashing on the coast using long exposure technique to add dynamism to your shots.

We then head inland, under the sublime light of Central Otago. With its historical past of gold rushes and landscapes worthy of an American "western", this region offers a unique setting for memorable photo stops.

At the end of the day, we arrive in the charming town of Wanaka, bathed in autumn colors.

4-star Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfastDinner
Jour 11
D11

Free day to put your photography techniques into practice in Wanaka

Mandatory rest day for your English-speaking photographer guides.

Take advantage of this free day to practice the techniques you learned during the first days of your trip. Before you leave, your English-speaking photographer guides will suggest several photo ideas to you, and believe us, there is no shortage of inspiration in this region!

Hotel/Motel/Lodge 4*Breakfast
Jour 12
D12

From Wanaka to Te Anau: exploring the Kepler Track and landscapes framed by nature

Wānaka → Te Anau

3h230 km

Today, we leave a magnificent region for another even more spectacular one. Crossing the Cardrona Valley and Lake Wakatipu, we reach the town of Te Anau, located on the shore of the country's second-largest lake.

In the afternoon, we walk a section of the famous Kepler Track. Here, trees covered with moss and lichen create a magical setting, perfect for setting up your tripod and capturing the best compositions of this enchanted forest.

4* Hotel/Motel/LodgeBreakfast
Jour 13
D13

Milford Sound: An Unforgettable Journey Through Spectacular Landscapes

We save the best for last: we take the Milford Sound road, one of the most spectacular in the country. Here, forest covers more than one million hectares, jagged peaks separate isolated valleys from the rest of the world, and rainfall is exceptional. The result: majestic landscapes that will delight all photographers.

We then board for a visit to the Milford fjord before dropping anchor for the night.

Dinner and overnight on board.

Aboard the cruise shipBreakfastDinner
Jour 14
D14

Final exploration at Milford Sound and farewell dinner in Queenstown

At daybreak, the boat departs for a new visit to Milford Sound. The spectacular and wild landscape will surely fill your memory cards!

We then return to Queenstown, where other photographic opportunities will likely present themselves.

The day ends with a farewell dinner at the top of the "gondola", offering a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings.

Hotel/Motel/Lodge 4*BreakfastDinner
Jour 15
D15

See you soon in Nouvelle-Zélande!

Transfer to the airport and end of this unforgettable trip.

Breakfast

Price per person

1 pers.€0/pers.

Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport-accommodation transfers on the first day
  • The optional activities offered on-site by your photographer guide
  • A change in the GST rate or the introduction of a new government tax
  • Meals not mentioned in the program
  • Possible supplements for public holidays and special events
  • Entry fees to Nouvelle-Zélande territory (NZeTA and IVL)
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended, see our partner Chapka)

Included

  • 2 professional photographers/guides/drivers speaking English and French
  • 13 nights in 4* hotels, motels and lodges (local standard) and 1 night aboard a boat in Milford Fiord
  • 14 breakfasts and 10 dinners
  • Comfortable minibus transport
  • Transfer to the airport on the last day
  • Shantytown Entrance
  • Sea excursion in Dunedin to photograph the albatrosses
  • Guided tour to observe little penguins
  • Cruise with overnight stay on the boat at Milford Sound
  • Taxes (GST 15%) included
  • DOC Concessions (access rights to parks and private lands managed by the Department of Conservation)
  • Mandatory Insurance and Licenses
  • Quick reference guide for beginners
  • A2 Print of Your Most Beautiful Photo

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to New Zealand for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities before your departure.

Passport

To enter New Zealand, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).

Tourist stay without a visa

Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays.

To date, this exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 12-month period.

The authorities may also request:

  • an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay.

NZeTA Travel Authorization

Before your arrival, you must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authorization (NZeTA), issued by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.

This authorization is required even without a visa and must be obtained before boarding your flight. It is electronically linked to your passport. During your application, you will also need to pay the International Visitor Levy (IVL).

To submit your application, you will need the following information:

  • passport information

  • a recent photograph

  • flight details

  • address of your first accommodation in New Zealand

The NZeTA application must be submitted online or via the official app at least 72 hours before departure. A digital confirmation will be sent via email and may be requested when passing through immigration.

Strict health and customs rules

New Zealand applies particularly stringent phytosanitary and customs controls upon arrival. It is prohibited or strictly regulated to bring in many food products, plants, animal products, or outdoor equipment (hiking boots, camping gear, etc.).

Any item subject to declaration must be declared on the arrival card. Non-compliance with these rules can result in heavy fines.

Travel with children

Minors must hold their own valid passport as well as an individual NZeTA covering the duration of the stay.

In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire with the New Zealand embassy or consulate in their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.

Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!

Choose the plan that best suits you:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the policy document detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy document with them throughout their trip.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insurance

Frequently asked questions

Before traveling to New Zealand, you must obtain an NZeTA authorization (approximately 17 NZD) and pay the IVL tourist tax (35 NZD). The authorization is valid for 2 years and allows multiple entries of up to 90 days per stay. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from New Zealand. Entry conditions vary depending on your nationality. Please check with the New Zealand consular authorities in your country before booking your trip.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between €250 and €400 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (€1500-2200 return) are additional. Campervan rental is a popular and often economical option.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and entertaining activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.

Let's talk about your adventure — South Island

A Nomadays advisor will get back to you to refine this project — itinerary, dates, budget, wishes — and propose a tailor-made version suited to your trip.

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance