From natural mountainscapes to man-made filming locations, there are many spots to snap when visiting various parts of New Zealand.
December through to February is said to be the busiest time for tourists, so read on if you want to avoid the crowds and discover lesser-known spots of beauty, especially in the South Island.
Campervan company Travellers Autobarn wanted to discover which tourist-friendly destinations were the least snapped by visitors, so looked at regularly named photogenic destinations and monitored how many social media posts each had. Six of the top 10 lesser-known spots are in the South Island.
In order from least popular they are:
1. Pororari River Track – In Paparoa National Park, a moderately challenging 7-7.5km round walk takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete. Top photo spots include Pororari Hut, offering stunning 360-degree views and the suspension bridge at the midpoint of the track.2. Bennett’s Bluff – The route between Glenorchy and Queenstown is renowned as one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. Bennett’s Bluff on the main access road is accessed by a 10-minute walk. Scenic photographic viewpoints include the picturesque Lake Wakatipu, Humbolt Ranges and Mount Earnslaw.3. Nevis Valley – A remote, tranquil escape, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet, the Nevis Valley is accessible by car, although four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. The valley’s dramatic landscapes are rich with gold mining relics, offering several key photo opportunities.4. Wainui Bay – In Abel Tasman National Park, Wainui Bay is a serene and stunning location with golden beaches and clear waters providing a picturesque backdrop for photography. The coastal lookout points offer sweeping views of the bay and surrounding landscape.5. Hooker Glacier Lake – Fantastic photo spots include the picturesque wooden boardwalks and swing bridges along the Hooker Valley Track. The lake’s turquoise glacial waters and floating icebergs are a highlight. Other must-see spots include Mueller Lake with stunning reflections of Mount Cook, and the Sealy Tarns Viewpoint boasting amazing panoramic views.6. Mou Waho Island – Accessible only by water taxi or private boat, the island features a hiking trail which leads to the stunning Arethusa Pool at the summit, with breathtaking views. The best photo spots include the summit with its breathtaking views of Arethusa Pool and Lake Wānaka, as well as the picturesque shoreline.
