One of the first places that really stood out to me was the Dome Forest Lookout Walk. After a few days in the city, this hike showed me a completely different side of New Zealand. Surrounded by thick trees and endless greenery, it felt peaceful and almost unreal. When we reached the top of the trail, I was able to photograph a wide view of the landscape below. I had never seen anything like it before, and I was excited to have a camera that could help me remember the view exactly how I saw it.

Later on, we visited Hell’s Gate in Rotorua, which has one of the most unique landscapes I’ve ever seen. The geothermal walk took us past bubbling mud pools and steaming vents, and the air even smelled different. It felt like stepping into another world. With my camera, I was able to focus on all the textures and details that made the area so unusual. The whole walk was something I never imagined I’d get to see in person.

Not every photo I took was of nature, though. One of my favorite memories from the trip was attending my very first rugby game with our group. I knew very little about rugby going in, but the energy from the crowd, the cheers, the music, and the back-and-forth intensity of the game made the whole experience unforgettable. I brought my camera with me and ended up snapping candid shots of our group, the field, and even the fans around us. It was the kind of moment where you feel totally present — and I’m so grateful I could capture that joy.