I was contracted by the beautiful people at Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track to capture New Zealand’s 11th Great Walk, the Hump Ridge Track.

The 3-day, 61 km journey is full of many features, elevation, incredible boardwalks that cover kilometres of the track, 1 night accommodation at Okaka Lodge that sits at almost 1000 m and another night in Port Craig Lodge, at sea level. 

For the beginning of my journey, I tagged along with a guided group who were shuttled by helicopter to their starting point. We touched down on a small pad where our journey and ascent to Okaka Lodge began. 

With stunning views of the coast, nearby mountains, dramatic change of foliage and lots of wind, we arrived at Okaka Lodge where delicious food and drinks were presented.

As the sun set I ventured out of the lodge to walk the short nearby loop. The golden light rolled over the surrounding peaks leaving me in a dream state of disbelief. 

A new day began and I hurried up the mountain to capture the sunrise, greeted by kea and more angelic golden light. I said goodbye to the wonderful people of the guided group and the next day joined a group of freedom walkers to descend to Port Craig Lodge.

Welcomed by more kea, a full day of pouring rain and a true insight to how this forest stays so lush, we made our way down to the Lodge where we dried off the best we could before the final day. Although I’ve never been so wet in my life, I felt so lucky to be there, experiencing every moment fully and bathing (literally) in the wonders of the rich forest. 

The last day was our push to the parking lot where we travelled through more of the fresh forest, walked over rushing rivers and finished off with a vast wide beach walk.

A photoshoot like this has been something I’ve dreamed about for a decade. I’ve been photographing the natural world for what seems like forever and to have my work recognised this way is an achieved milestone. Thank you to all the beautiful people at Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track for your hospitality, kindness and trust in me to capture your trail, and a thank you to all the amazing hikers I met who made it all just so much fun.