photography tour zealandia

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Photography Tours at Zealandia

• Duration: 210 Minutes (approx.)
• Location : Karori, Wellington
• Product code: PHOTOG

Photograph wildlife and nature like a pro! Discover our small-group exclusive photography tours. Over three hours you’ll get unprecedented access to advice from expert photographers and view Zealandia through a whole new lens.

These tours are for keen beginners, ambitious amateurs, and accomplished photographers – anyone seeking to capture incredible once-in-a lifetime moments in nature.

Join Zealandia’s resident photographers on a stroll through the sanctuary to photograph the very best of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna. Capture raindrops on fern fronds, light shining through the forest canopy, and the striking detail and colour of bird feathers.

We will walk at a slow pace, with plenty of time for advice from our resident photographers and for you to try your best shot. As Zealandia is a wild environment, every tour will be different. Our photographers will cover different photography styles depending on what we see on the day. You will spend time at different locations throughout the sanctuary.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Sturdy walking shoes
• Warm clothing layers, sun hat/beanie, waterproof jacket
• Tripod if you have one
• Water bottle and snacks

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Science and knowledge events in New Zealand

Zealandia photography tour: black & white photography. a guided tour *in person*.

Date/Time Date(s) - Sat 6 January 7:30 - 11:00

Location Zealandia

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Photograph wildlife and nature like a pro! Discover Zealandia’s small-group exclusive photography tours. Over three hours you’ll get unprecedented access to advice from expert photographers and view Zealandia through a whole new lens.

These tours are for keen beginners, ambitious amateurs, and accomplished photographers – anyone seeking to capture incredible once-in-a lifetime moments in nature.

Join Zealandia’s resident photographers on a stroll through the sanctuary to photograph the very best of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna. Capture raindrops on fern fronds, light shining through the forest canopy, and the striking detail and colour of bird feathers.

You will walk at a slow pace, with plenty of time for advice from our resident photographers and for you to try your best shot. As Zealandia is a wild environment, every tour will be different. However, there are some special dates where our photographers will focus on a particular photography style more than on other styles (please refer to the special date list below for more details). Other styles will still be covered depending on what we see on the day. You will spend time at different locations throughout the sanctuary.

What to bring: Sturdy walking shoes Warm clothing layers, sun hat/beanie, waterproof jacket Camera Tripod if you have one Water bottle and snacks

Overview Duration: 3.5 hours guided photography walk Price: $120 per person Departing: 7.30am, Saturdays Tours available: October – April Minimum Number: 4 people per tour Maximum Capacity: 10 people per tour Minimum Age: 12 years Bookings

Special dates Zealandia are introducing tours that will focus on a specific photography style. Other styles and topics may be touched on during the tour, depending on the conditions and encounters on the day. Please check below for dates with a specialized tour.

9 December 2023: Bird photography 6 January 2024: Black & white photography 10 February 2024: Smartphone cameras 30 March 2024: Fungi photography

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Zealandia Photography Tour

ZEALANDIA Eco-Sanctuary , Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington

Ticket Information

• Photography Tour Ticket : $120.00 each
• Additional fees may apply
• Sat 2 Dec 2023, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 9 Dec 2023, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 16 Dec 2023, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 6 Jan 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 13 Jan 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 27 Jan 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 3 Feb 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 10 Feb 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 24 Feb 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 2 Mar 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 23 Mar 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 30 Mar 2024, 7:30am–11:00am
• Sat 6 Apr 2024, 7:30am–11:00am

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• Visit Zealandia

Zealandia_tours

Photograph wildlife and nature like a pro! Discover our small-group exclusive photography tours. Over three hours you’ll get unprecedented access to advice from expert photographers and view Zealandia through a whole new lens. These tours are for keen beginners, ambitious amateurs, and accomplished photographers – anyone seeking to capture incredible once-in-a lifetime moments in nature. Join Zealandia’s resident photographers on a stroll through the sanctuary to photograph the very best of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna. Capture raindrops on fern fronds, light shining through the forest canopy, and the striking detail and colour of bird feathers. We will walk at a slow pace, with plenty of time for advice from our resident photographers and for you to try your best shot. As Zealandia is a wild environment, every tour will be different. However, there are some special dates where our photographers will focus on a particular photography style more than on other styles (please refer to the special date list below for more details). Other styles will still be covered depending on what we see on the day. You will spend time at different locations throughout the sanctuary. What to bring: Sturdy walking shoes Warm clothing layers, sun hat/beanie, waterproof jacket Camera Tripod if you have one Water bottle and snacks Overview Duration: 3.5 hours guided photography walk Price: $120 per person Departing: 7.30am, Saturdays Tours available: October - April Minimum Number: 4 people per tour Maximum Capacity: 10 people per tour Minimum Age: 12 years Special dates We are introducing tours that will focus on a specific photography style. Other styles and topics may be touched on during the tour, depending on the conditions and encounters on the day. Please check below for dates with a specialized tour. 9 December 2023: Bird photography 6 January 2024: Black & white photography 10 February 2024: Smartphone cameras 30 March 2024: Fungi photography

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Albom Adventures

Capturing the essence of travel through photography

Inspiring New Zealand travel through photography

Zealandia Day vs Night Tour Review: NZ Wildlife in a Natural Habitat

Tucked up over the city of Wellington is Zealandia, an ecosanctuary reminiscent of the days before humans arrived in New Zealand. A predator-proof fence surrounds the Zealandia sanctuary, creating an “island” within New Zealand’s capital city and allowing birds and other native creatures to live wild as nature intended.

Whether you are a nature or history lover, bird watcher, or just a visitor, Zealandia Wellington is a must-see. It is much more than a bird sanctuary, filled with New Zealand flora and fauna (birds, reptiles and insects); it is a paradise a world apart from the city below.

Visitors choose between day and night entry. Each is a unique experience with its own advantages. We have done both and share our thoughts below.

However, you can reserve your ticket now if you already know your choice.

Zealandia day vs night highlights

Before I go into our experiences on each, I thought I would share our summary. First is the bottom line. We loved both options. Zealandia is magical no matter when you visit.

However, if I had to choose only one, I would recommend the night tour for most visitors, as it is one of the most unique things we have ever done.

Zealandia daytime visit

Advantages of a daytime visit

• Option for a 2-hour guided tour or general admission pass allowing self-guided walks through the grounds.
• Birds you might see during the day: Takahē, tui, Kākā, Kākāriki, Saddleback, Whitehead, Kererū, Hihi, Bellbird
• Also, you might see tuatara and wētā
• Small groups with a maximum of 12 people per tour.
• No minimum age.
• There is a free shuttle to Zealandia during the day.

Disadvantages of a daytime visit

• You miss the opportunity to see and hear the nocturnal animals
• You must leave the park by 5pm in the summer, 4.30 after May 1.

Zealandia night visit

Advantages of a night visit

• Guided 2.5-hour tour.
• About 80% of night tours see at least one of Zealandia’s 150 little spotted kiwi birds.
• Other birds you might see include: morepork, Pāteke, Takahē and Kākā
• Other night creatures, you might see include: wētā, glow worms, Maud Island Frog, and tuatara
• Special lights are provided to each participant.
• End the tour with a cup of hot kawakawa (bushman’s tea)

Disadvantages of a night visit

• No option for self-guided entry
• For families, the minimum age is 12.
• No shuttle option at night.
• More expensive
• Requires more planning and pre-booking as it frequently sells out.
• The Zealandia Cafe (Rātā Cafe) is closed at night. However, the gift shop remains open.

Zealandia night tour – our experience

Setting out at dusk, we got to watch the forest transition to nighttime.

As the nocturnal creatures awaken, Zealandia by night becomes a different place. Like walking through an enchanted forest, the sights and sounds of the park at night were intriguing.

Every night is different. Our extremely knowledgeable guide had a keen eye for spotting wildlife, and she could identify bird calls for us, a skill I simply don’t possess on my own.

But more important to our wonderful evening was her passion for wildlife, conservation, and the entire ecosystem that surrounded us.

Highlights of our Zealandia night tour

Red light torches are provided to all tour participants. The red light allows us to see without affecting our night vision and does not disturb the animals.

After watching a short film, we headed into the sanctuary with torches (flashlights). Our Zealandia night tour’s first stop was a beautiful vantage point looking out over much of the ecosanctuary.

Then we continued our amazing walk. Some of the highlights included spotting Tui, kaka, pied shags, North Island robins, kereru (wood pigeon), and Takahe. We also heard the morepork owl’s call and six kiwi birds’ calls, although we didn’t see any that night. (If you have the same luck, here are more places to see kiwi )

Our guide also pointed out eels, reptiles, insects like the tree weta, stick insects, several species of spiders, and various native plants.

Zealandia eco-sanctuary by day

Our daytime visit was a few years ago, but little has changed since then as Zealandia’s conservation project is a 500-year vision for full regrowth to a self-sustaining ecosystem as it was before human inhabitants.

Zealandia is still one of my favourite places to visit in Wellington .

In addition to the eco-sanctuary, access to the educational exhibition hall (created by the designers of the LOTR Exhibition) is included in your entrance fee.

For me, the guided tour really brought the park to life. Just like at night, without the passionate guide, I wouldn’t have seen nearly as much as I did.

Our guide identified both plant and animal life.

She pointed out rare and endangered species as well as more common ones like the Silver Fern, a national symbol of New Zealand that is identified by the green upper and silver underside leaves.

We walked along the gentle sloping tracks. Sometimes she spoke, other times in silence that was frequently interrupted by songbirds.

The crisp, fresh air makes it difficult to remember that this Wellington sanctuary is only 10 minutes from the city centre.

Before we left, she even showed us an entrance into the abandoned mine which is now home to the cave wētā., but I am not sure this is currently included in daytime tours.

A few of the inhabitants of Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary

Some of the animals we saw that are photoed below include:

• This shag and baby in a nest are some of the many NZ native birds found here.
• Reintroduced to Zealandia in 2002, the kākā had effectively been extinct in Wellington since the early 20th century. It is a North Island bird and is related to the alpine parrot, kea. Often heard before seen, kākā makes a somewhat screechy sound which you can hear here .
• The critically endangered takahe.
• I saw a saddleback at Zealandia, up in the trees. I could see either head or body, but never both, so this photo is from the Zealandia media pack.
• This is the first tuatara I have seen outside of an enclosure. I could clearly see the spines on his back without the glass that usually separates us at other locations.

Getting to Zealandia in Wellington

• The Zealandia entrance is at 53 Waiapu Road.
• There is a small parking lot on site. We found the Zealandia free shuttle very easy to use for our daytime visit. Plus, the cable car stops nearby.
• About 500 active volunteers and 50 staff members support this wildlife sanctuary.
• Zealandia is formerly known as the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary.

General tips for visiting the ecosanctuary

• Allocate a minimum of two hours for your visit. Nature lovers could easily spend the entire day.
• Regardless of when you visit, wear comfortable walking shoes. The main trail is a gentle grade and very easy to navigate. However, it is unpaved, so the ground can be uneven. If you are into tramping, there are more difficult trails that recommend walking boots. They also have a wheelchair-accessible path.
• Bring a drink bottle and a jumper (jacket) as the Wellington weather is unpredictable. Note that the tours run in all weather
• Twilight tours and Kids’ night walks (school holidays) are for children as young as 5 years old.

Can’t get to Wellington – Check out these options

While Zealandia is truly special, it’s not the only fabulous eco-sanctuary in New Zealand. In fact, we have been to two others that remind us of Zealandia while we were there.

Just outside of Dunedin is Orokonui Ecosanctuary a self-sustaining ecosystem supporting many rare and endangered native plants and animals, particularly many of the South Island native species.

In the Auckland region, there is the island of Tiritiri Matangi . Now an open bird sanctuary island, it is home to many of the same native species.

Similarly, two of the Auckland regional parks now have predator-proof fences, thus creating open bird sanctuaries. These are Shakespear Park at the end of Whangaparaoa Peninsula and Tāwharanui Regional Park a bit farther north and east of Warkworth .

Save on your NZ trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget). See all our personal favourite NZ hotels here .
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Activity discounts : we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
• Private guides : we do have a go-to when we hire a private guide .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel. And don’t forget to download our free New Zealand packing list when you sign up for our newsletter.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Will you take the Zealandia day or night tour?

For more on New Zealand, start here: New Zealand Road Trips: Itineraries for North or South Island Adventures , or you might like …

Dunedin to Christchurch Road Trip: Unique East Coast Stops

A WWII Ship Degaussing Station in Shakespear Park, Auckland NZ

Auckland Sailing: 9 Ways to Get Out on the Water

Mount Victoria Lookout: Wellington New Zealand’s Best Views

Disclaimer: I was a guest of Zealandia for the purposes of writing this article. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

For more tips … join Explore New Zealand, the country’s largest NZ travel and photography group on Facebook (free).

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

Mary {The World Is A Book}

May 4, 2018 at 12:34 pm

This looks like such a great place to visit during both day and night. I like that the animals are roaming freely. It’s a great way to see some of the local animals and some I’ve never heard before. We always enjoy night tours with animals so if given the choice, I would definitely do this.

Wayne Olson

May 2, 2018 at 7:37 pm

Wow! This would be an interesting adventure to learn more about the animals (I would love to see a Kiwi!) 🙂

Best wishes, Wayne!

Comedy Plus

April 30, 2018 at 10:38 am

I want to go during the day and then at night. I would love this place.

Have a fabulous day. 😎

April 30, 2018 at 8:41 am

I like to idea of a night tour in a place like Zealandia Ecosanctuary. I’m sure you get to see way more animals than you would during the day. Isn’t it a little scary though? How about if you step on a snake? Brrrr! My husband always keeps pushing me to go and explore some wild areas by night with him, when we travel. But I always refuse. Just the two of us in the wilderness at night seems scary, but in a guided tour it’s different.

Rhonda Albom

May 1, 2018 at 10:11 pm

New Zealand is one of only three countries in the world that has no snakes, so no worries there.

California Globetrotter

April 29, 2018 at 8:27 pm

How awesome is this animal sanctuary!? I love that its a protected area where so many different types of species have a place they can call home!

April 29, 2018 at 12:53 pm

Wasn’t that the bridge that Dean Waratini stood on for one of his songs in the 1970s? It looks familiar…

April 30, 2018 at 6:27 am

I am so impressed that you remember that moment and song. I had to look it up, and I think you are correct. Hre is the Bridge: https://youtu.be/U2VKY1iCUG4

April 29, 2018 at 6:48 am

I would be all about visiting Zealandia if I were to make my way to New Zealand. And I know my husband would put this high on his list also. Looks like a very interesting, and cool, place to visit.

April 29, 2018 at 7:24 am

Jill, perhaps it’s time for a trip to New Zealand?

Paul Pietrangelo

April 29, 2018 at 2:50 am

So many interesting things to show and explain to. To take photos at night are amazing Rhonda. Thank you for doing and showing us this amazing things because I doubt that I’ll ever be there to see them myself. See ya.

Cruisin Paul

The night photos were a bit difficult to take, so I was glad they offered me access to a few media shots. And, you never know. You and Mary love to cruise, perhaps a long cruise to New Zealand someday? Wellington is usually a stop on the itinerary.

April 30, 2018 at 1:47 am

You know Rhonda, I’ll just sit down and think about that. Maybe someday we’ll even get a chance to meet you and we could sit down to lunch. See ya.

Wednesday Elf

April 29, 2018 at 1:33 am

Rhonda, thanks for introducing me to Zealandia. How wonderful that a place has been created and set aside to save and preserve the natural flora, fauna and wildlife of the area. Beautiful photos as always and delightful narration of what you saw and what a visitor can expect to experience.

April 29, 2018 at 7:23 am

It is such a fascinating place to visit and see nature the way it was intended.

Ryan Biddulph

April 28, 2018 at 5:52 pm

We saw so many shags yesterday down at, of course, Shag Point 😉 Of course we saw the Moeraki Boulders too. Impressive as can be. The boulders, those shags and the many fur seals laying out and resting. Zealandia is noted for our house sit at Paekakariki in about 2 weeks. Looks like a winner! Thanks for sharing.

April 28, 2018 at 6:38 pm

Day or night, you will love Zealandia. If you go in the day, be sure to take one of the tours (they are included in the entrance fee). As for the Moeraki Boulders – I love them. It is one of my favourite spots in New Zealand.

Sanjana @ Green Global Travel

May 13, 2015 at 4:43 am

Great post and lovely pictures! Sounds like it was a fun visit!

March 10, 2015 at 7:48 am

What a neat place! Love those birds!

March 10, 2015 at 1:31 pm

There were so many more interesting birds that we saw, hiding in the trees, making it super difficult to get great photos.

March 8, 2015 at 10:51 pm

I spent 10 days in Wellington a few years ago. I really wanted to get to Zealandia but my schedule didn’t allow it. I missed out. I’ll have to get back there one day and make time to visit. How lovely to see those “sanctuary birds” how sad that they need to be “sanctuary birds”.

March 8, 2015 at 11:11 pm

Too bad, it is really a neat place. It’s like traveling really far away, yet only going a few minutes outside of the city.

Julie K Pick

March 8, 2015 at 10:36 pm

Lots of unusual birds and creatures! My favorite is the Kaka.

KVVS MURTHY

March 8, 2015 at 6:26 pm

Very beautiful pictures..and with your account of details about the place..!

March 8, 2015 at 1:49 am

Such wonderfully exotic photos! Thanks for posting them.

March 8, 2015 at 10:45 am

Living here in New Zealand, they don’t feel that exotic to me, but they are special as so many are endangered.

March 7, 2015 at 10:14 am

You got some beautiful pictures here 🙂 love the bird close up’s…

March 7, 2015 at 9:25 am

Wow, what an adventure. I like to see wild, rare animals too, but I must admit I’m more comfortable when they’re inside a cage or behind the bar. Not that I support animal caging but I’m just a scaredy cat when it comes to unfamiliar animals.

Anyway, good for you to have enjoyed this kind of activity outdoor.

March 7, 2015 at 1:48 pm

Remember there are no large indigenous mammals in New Zealand, so not much here that can do more damage than a peck, and few of the birds or critters would ever both people.

March 6, 2015 at 11:04 am

Would love to visit New Zealand some day.

March 6, 2015 at 12:53 pm

I hope you get here, there are so many amazing things to see and do in New Zealand. Zealandia is just on of the highlights.

Lisa Howard

March 6, 2015 at 6:06 am

I love the shot of the Kākā. That’s a cool looking bird!

March 6, 2015 at 9:00 am

I agree, he is a cool looking bird, although he looks quite a bit like his cousin the Kea. On the South Island they are known for picking at the rubber which holds the windscreen (front window) onto the car.

March 6, 2015 at 4:03 am

Wonderful capture the natural, beautiful pictures and great tour!

travelFREAK

March 5, 2015 at 11:48 pm

Fantastic post, Rhonda! Extremely useful for people looking for adventure!

March 5, 2015 at 8:10 pm

nice place! PAUL SACHS

March 5, 2015 at 3:04 pm

Very cool photos.

March 5, 2015 at 1:09 pm

Oh yes, I would visit here if I could. I’d spend more than a couple of hours too. What great shots.

Sarah E. Albom

March 5, 2015 at 1:08 pm

Cool photos 🙂 I love that picture of the Kākā especially; it’s definitely my favourite. And good tips. Zealandia was an awesome reserve!

March 5, 2015 at 12:53 pm

Love the photos of the birds and the little dinosaur – somehow this reminds me of the movie Jurassic Park. Your tips for visiting are great!

Alex J. Cavanaugh

March 5, 2015 at 12:52 pm

You have so many animals not found anywhere else in the world. Impressive for a couple of large islands. Glad the Shags weren’t shagging at the time…

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Whether you are an amateur or professional photographer - our trips are for all participants who are interested in photography and all routes and programs are designed by photographers for photographers. We also welcome tour companions who are just joining these trips - without taking photographs.

Company founder and President Hermann Reuther himself has a passion for Travel and Photography and this made the new  Reuthers  travel activity reality. We are very proud of providing worldwide destinations - all of them are well known from organising dream tours since 1997.

While photography is on top of the activities,  Reuthers  Photo Tours  are also a cultural journey, which we believe will enhance your ability to capture the essence of all destinations in your images.

Reuthers  Photo Tours combine the best in nature and cultural travel with great guides who are eager to share their experiences from the countries and their passion for photography with you.

There are perfect conditions for people interested in photo tours all over the world. Photo Paradise New Zealand means the most beautiful regions of the world, a mild climate and different landscapes of sunny white beaches to snow-capped mountains. Discover New Zealand and be enchanted by this beautiful country at the other side of the world - with a photography travel.

There are several photo tours of different lengths in New Zealand. The Paradise Tour takes you over the north and south island of New Zealand as well as Stewart Island - starting and ending in Auckland, the largest city of New Zealand.

We now invite you to choose from the following Photo Tours we have put together for You:

The 34 day Paradise Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the north and south island as well as Stewart Island and includes the spiritual place Cape Reinga with its lighthouse...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Paradise

The 29 day Highlights Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the north and south island of New Zealand as well as nature paradise Stewart Island and the Northlands.

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Highlights

The 23 day Discover Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the north and south island as well as nature paradise Stewart Island. You will visit a traditional Maori culture show with a hangi dinner and finish your trip in Christchurch, the largest city in the south island of New Zealand...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Discover

North Island

The 7 day North Island Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the north island and finishing in Welligton, the capital of New Zealand with its National Museum Te Papa...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand North Island

The 6 day North Island Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the north island by starting and finishing in Auckland, the city of sails and visiting the Bay of Island and the Waitangi Grounds, the birth place of New Zealand...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Northlands

South Island

The 20 day South Island Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the south island by starting and finishing in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Crossing the Cook Strait between the islands by Interislander for sure is one of the highlights...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand South Island

The 16 day Southern Photography Tour through New Zealand is taking place on the south island by starting in Wellington and visiting Mount Cook, the highest mountain of New Zealand, before finishing the trip in Christchurch...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Southern

The 7 day Nature Photography Tour through New Zealand's north and south island starts in Christchurch and takes you to Kaikoura, famous for whale watching as well as to a wine tasting tour in Blenheim located in the Marlbourough wine region...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Nature

The 5 day Coastal Photography Tour through New Zealand's south island takes you from Christchurch to Kaikoura, famous for whale watching as well as to a winery tour in Blenheim located in the Marlborough wine region...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Coastal

The 3 day Northern Photography Tour through New Zealand is the shortest tour we are are providing. You start in Wellington and visit the Tongariro National Park, the oldest one in New Zealand as well as taking part in a Waitome Glowworm cave tour...

>  Photo Tours New Zealand Northern

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When should I arrive?  All tours visitors must arrive at the ZEALANDIA Visitor Centre 15 minutes before the tour start time. 

How much walking is involved  expect to be on your feet for 1.5-2 hours. the tours venture through the zealandia bush and tracks will include slopes, gravel and uneven terrain in places. it is not a strenuous walk but you will need reasonable fitness to join the public tour. if you have any doubt whether the tour is right for you, please get in touch at  [email protected] ., what should i wear  you'll be venturing into the bush. dress to the conditions, with sturdy walking shoes, warm clothing and a waterproof layer just in case, what if the weather is bad on the day of my tour  we go out in just about all conditions, so be prepared bring a waterproof jacket and wear sturdy walking shoes. in very extreme circumstances we may call off a tour for safety reasons. if this happens to your tour we will let visitors know as soon as possible and do our best to arrange a tour at a later date., can i book my own private tour   absol utely just email us and we can arrange for you., what if i have any mobility or accessibility requirements  we are pretty f lexible in catering for any special requirements but we do need to know about them beforehand, so please contact [email protected] to see how we can accomodate you. we also have more general accessibility information here ., how do i get to zealandia  zealandia is just a 10 minute drive from the cbd, and also on multiple bus lines. see more here ., what payment methods are accepted  online payment accept only mastercard or visa what if the booking widget isn't working for me head to  our booking page here or contact [email protected] to book., terms and conditions & cancellation policy can be found  here.  .

"This was the most wonderful tour and I can not rave about it enough. We were guided through the sanctuary by a very knowledgeable staff who pointed out numerous birds and plant species and explained about the ecology and history of the area. The land is strikingly beautiful and the vision and dedication to create a natural habitat teaming with the creatures native to New Zealand is very inspirational." - ZEALANDIA By Day review by Yvette, via Trip Advisor

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Tips for Visiting & Photographing the Palouse

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Please note that Alison doesn't give photo tours or lessons, but if you'd like to visit the Palouse to see its unique rolling hills and farms, and maybe to photograph it yourself, here are some resources and a few tips to get you started....

Helpful Resources

Take advantage of these great resources for interesting and helpful information, history, travel ideas and maps:

• Pullman Chamber of Commerce. 415 N. Grand Ave., Washington, 99163. 509-334-3565 /800-365-6948. Pullman is in Whitman County, home of most of the Washington portion of the Palouse and it is the Palouse's largest town. The Pullman Chamber offers informational brochures, maps and contacts for Whitman County and the entire region. The Chamber's brochures are often descriptive of photogenic towns, landmarks, and suggested travel routes.
• Moscow Chamber of Commerce. 411 S. Main, Moscow, Idaho, 83843. 208-882-1800 /800-380-1801. www.moscowchamber.com. Moscow calls itself "The Heart of the Arts", and its Chamber of Commerce provides information and contacts about arts and other events as well as recreational opportunities.
• Palouse Scenic Byway. This website describes the 208 miles of the Palouse Scenic Byway and many of the towns and events along the Byway. Maps, videos and loads of information!
• Latah County Historical Society. 327 E. Second, Moscow, Idaho 83843. 208-882-1004 . The Idaho portion of the Palouse is mostly located within Latah County, Idaho. The Latah County Historical Society offers a great deal of historical business and personal records, photographs, maps and oral history transcripts. A great resource for photographers and others who may be researching for a book, article, or lesson plan about the Palouse region.
• City of Colfax. The County Seat of Whitman County, Colfax is in the heart of the Palouse region. Its historic downtown offers shopping, dining and overnight accommodations. A friendly place to make your center of photographic operations, especially if you're photographing Steptoe Butte.

The Landscape and the Seasons

The colors and textures of the Palouse hills are primarily influenced by the variable weather and the crops that blanket the fields. While there's a general progression of changes the appearance of fields over the course of a year, part of the fun of photographing the Palouse is that these patterns aren't set in stone and you can never be exactly sure what you'll see or what the light will be. Ground that is pristine snow-covered white during one January may be dark, deep mud the next January. (In 2007-2008, our wheat field was covered in snow from November through early April, but in 2009-2010, it had snow on it a total of 3 days!)

Even though the Palouse region isn't very large, there are variations in how the geography and weather affect the appearance of the landscape in different areas. Broadly speaking, the southern and far western Palouse progress through the farming seasons earlier than the central region, with the northeast usually progressing the latest. The northeast generally holds snow on the ground longer (some years into late February or March), while parts of the south may receive very little to no snow. Also, the lower elevations of the river canyons are drier and rockier and have longer periods of gold and brown tones than the higher elevations. The far western portion of the Palouse (from around Dusty, Washington and west) is also drier, less populated, and less treed.

SUMMER Around late June to early July, the primarily green hues will be begin their transition to the warmer golds and browns of ripening crops and grasses. Blue grass, hay fields and crops that were planted the prior autumn will begin to turn tan before the crops that were planted in spring, resulting in a patchwork effect of greens, golds and browns that provides exciting geometric photographic opportunities.

Encourage Your Creativity A good rule for all photography is to think outside the box and inside your own head. Popular photographic locations are often photographed over and over again in the same ways by many people. This is somewhat human nature; we see a photograph we love that makes us want to visit a place and then it's hard to "see" the place in a unique way-- in our own way. Don't just shoot the scenes you've seen before in pictures; instead, make the subject your own. Try to see it through your own eyes and with your own creative spirit. Regarding the Palouse in particular: remember, it's not just about the hills! Seek images that go beyond the classic green rolling hills scene.

Time of Day Generally, photographing the Palouse in the early morning or late afternoon-early evening provides the best light needed for showing off the shapes of hills and textures of fields and barn wood. Low side-lighting on the hills at these times creates the shadows that make the hills more visible and dramatic. If you don't have much time to photograph, these would be the time periods to get out there. Ask Permission! Many of the same locations (certain picturesque barns in particular) are visited regularly by individuals and groups of photographers and cyclists. Palouse residents are very friendly and generous, just as you'd hope to find in rural America. Returning the kindness to landowners who are welcoming to the cars and photographers stopped on their roadsides and driveways can go a long way toward keeping these locals amenable to future visits. Cultivated fields (and barns and old homesteads) in Idaho and Washington are not public property. Be sure to have the proper permission to enter agricultural fields and to photograph close to barns and other private property. If you have a business card, give one to the owner. A really nice idea is to get the landowner's name and address, and if you get a good picture of their farm or house, send them a copy.

Locations You Shouldn't Miss

*Note that Washington state requires a permit to use Washington state-managed recreation lands, including the state parks noted below. A one-day pass or an annual pass can be purchased. Rather than including a link here to a web page that may expire, do a web search for Washington State's Discover Pass and you'll easily find the info you need.

• Steptoe Butte State Park. On Hume Road, off HWY 195, north of Colfax, Washington. A road spirals around this tallest point in the region, all the way to the top of the butte, giving you a 360 degree view of the Palouse, the Blue Mountains and the Bitterroots. Rest rooms and picnic tables at the bottom help make this a convenient stop at one of the most popular photographic locations on the Palouse.
• Kamiak Butte State Park. Between Palouse and Pullman, Washington off HWY 27. This tree-covered butte has easy (though not flat) trails leading through the sun dappled woods to the top of the butte where lovely views of the Palouse await your photographic creativity. Camping sites, picnic grounds, a children's play area and rest rooms make this a good family stop when photographing away from home. Many native flowers bloom on Kamiak by early June.
• Artisans at the Dahmen Barn. HWY 195, Uniontown, Washington. 509-229-3414 . A place to get inspired by local artists while shooting the photogenic barn-turned-artists'-haven and the fantastic folk art fence made from over 1000 wheels.
• Palouse Falls State Park. South of Washtucna, Washington off HWY 26. The Palouse River flows over this 197' waterfall into a rocky canyon. The water flow is heaviest during the spring run-off, from April-June, depending on the year. The surrounding area is rockier and drier than the undulating hills area to the east, providing unique photographic opportunities.

All images, text, and HTML code copyright Alison Meyer Photography. All rights reserved. No form of reproduction, manipulation, copying, saving, or other use of these images, text, or code is allowed for commercial or personal purposes without prior written consent from Alison Meyer Photography. For usage info, please contact Alison. Thank you!

Palouse Photography Tips: A Guide for Visitors

Jeff Stamer

• July 22, 2015
• Pacific Northwest USA / Photo Tips and Guides

The Palouse is a remote farming area in southeastern Washington state and western Idaho.  The endless softly rolling hills are home to vast wheat fields, scattered small towns and friendly folks.  It’s the type of place that evokes memories of the “Norman Rockwell” America we imagine it was long ago.

You’ve probably never heard of the Palouse…unless you are a wheat broker, a local resident or a landscape photographer.

Why landscape photographers?  Well, those hills I mentioned are blessed by a soft, flowing, nearly sensuous beauty when viewed thru a camera.  As a result, photographers from across the world flock there during the summer when the fields are covered by colorful waves of wheat.   Images of this area captivated me for years and I finally had the chance in June to experience it for myself.

And here’s what I found:

What do you think?  Unreal?  Surreal?  I’d never seen anything like it but for some odd reason when I first gazed upon the Palouse landscape, I was oddly reminded of a painting by Dali …

I thought Dali was Spanish but maybe he spent some time in western Washington before he started painting?

The Palouse seems to encourage random, strange thoughts like that…it just doesn’t seem real somehow.   It is all just so pretty…so green and the people are just so incredibly nice.  Boy, I thought the folks in my town were friendly …but the Palouse?  Have you ever had one of those road-workers that holds the “Slow/Stop” signs actually walk up to your car and start talking to you?  This happened to me twice in the Palouse.  If this occurred in some other parts of the country, I’d be rolling up my windows and frantically looking for a way to get away…but here it didn’t seem odd or threatening.  It quickly became clear that the locals just don’t seem to have the ‘shields’ that those of us from urban areas take for granted.

Okay…okay…enough with my ramblings about how the Palouse made me feel.   What does it look like?

Well, first of all the landscape is best appreciated from the vantage point of height.  Fortunately, there is a tall hill (butte) smack dab in the middle of the best part of the Palouse.  It is called Steptoe Butte and as part of the Washington State Park system, it is open to the public.    In the hours before dusk and after dawn, the low angle of the sun creates wonderful shadows around all those curvy hills.

Well, you will also notice the 58 turbines of the Palouse Wind Farm built in 2012.  They are a good distance north of the butte so they don’t look huge but they are actually about 500′ tall and produce quite a bit of electricity.

Every direction you look reveals more details and different perspectives:

If you come down from the Butte, the perspectives from ground level are still captivating…just not jaw dropping.

So, if you ever want to travel back in time to a simpler, friendlier time while being surrounded in a landscape that only a crazy Catalonian surrealist artist could envision, make your way to the Palouse next summer.  It will be a memorable experience.

Tips and suggestions for my Fellow Photographers:

When to visit.

May and June are usually peak for the yellow and green of the fields.  A very different look can be seen in July and August when the wheat turns gold and brown. Harvesting usually begins in late August.

Where to stay?

Colfax is the town closest to Steptoe.  It is about 30 minutes south and you can choose from 4 or 5 hotel/motels.

Where should you go for your shots?

Steptoe Butte   As mentioned, Steptoe Butte is the primo place to be in the Palouse.

The best light is near sunrise and sunset.  Be on Steptoe for both….the same features can look totally different at the opposite ends of the day.  Plus, by visiting twice you will increase your chances of photographing during partly cloudy conditions when dappled sunlight accentuates the incredible shadows created by the low angled sunlight.

When you first get to Steptoe, pay your $10 at the unattended kiosk (or you can buy a full year pass online for $30), then drive to the summit. There is a large parking area just below the actual summit and many folks pull in here mistakenly thinking they are at the top.  The actual summit is accessed by a narrow (a little wider than a single car), unmarked road on your left as you pull into the larger pullout.  It looks like a service road used to get to the cell towers on the summit.  Once you get to the top, scout out your potential shots by using your binoculars.  Look for nice perspectives and find the farm houses, barns and silos that you will want to incorporate into your shots.

Don’t stay at the summit the whole time.  There are a number of pullouts along the road that winds around the butte and they will give you significantly different perspectives.  It only takes a few minutes to drive from one to the other and you will be surprised how different your shots look from the lower elevations.

The park is officially open from dawn to dusk but I’ve never had an issue being there earlier or later than the posted hours.

During the day, drive around:   Get off the paved roads, slow down and just drive.  There are some wonderful vignettes to be found.  Be respectful of private property and be aware that some big farm equipment rolls down the gravel roads.  Also be aware that most of the roads around here have sharp drop-offs right at their edge….you can’t just pull over everywhere.  You may have to drive a bit further and hike back a short ways.

Dahmen Barn:   Located in Uniontown (about an hour south of Steptoe) this is an antique barn that is now a co-op for local artists.  Photographers adore the fence that surrounds the property which is made from hundreds of old metal tractor wheels, gears, etc.  Here is a link with more info and directions.

T.A. Leonard Barn:   You will see a lot of quaint red barns in the Palouse, but how many round barns have you ever seen?  This beautifully restored gem is 40 minutes south of Steptoe in Pullman right off of Old Moscow Road.  It’s a private farm and not open for tours but you can photograph it from the road.  This site will give you more info and directions.

Palouse Falls:   About an 90 mile drive west of Steptoe is the magnificent 197′   Palouse Falls .  Perhaps best seen at sunset, you can also take wonderful Milky Way shots here.  I’ll be writing a full article about this location later in the fall.

Other locations:   Teri Lou, a local photographer has put together a detailed map  showing locations of barns, old cars and other photographic points of interest.  She sells the map via the internet for $25.  It is quite detailed and worth your money if you are going to visit.  Here is a link .  And no, I don’t get a commission!   Short of hiring a full time local guide, this is the best resource I’ve found to help visiting photographers find potential locations

How long should you visit?

If your time is tight, you can cover the highlights in a day.  That will give you a sunrise and sunset on Steptoe and the middle of the day to explore the countryside.  Of course, the Palouse is a big area, so you would need to spend much longer to cover it thoroughly.  If you do decide to take a few days, I’d suggest you hire one of the local photo guides or book a photo tour.  Many of them have relationships with the farmers who will allow you to access to locations on private property that would otherwise be unavailable to you.

Lenses: When you think of landscapes, you naturally think of wide angle lenses and they will come in handy when you are driving around the farm roads.   But on Steptoe, you need long lenses.  As I reviewed my photos taken on the butte, I noticed that nearly all of them were taken somewhere between 300-500mm on a full frame camera (450mm to 750mm on an APS-C crop sensor camera).

Polarizer:   You will often have some haze on Steptoe and a polarizer will help reduce that issue and make your colors ‘pop.’

Post processing

Dynamic Range :  Full frame cameras, HDR, blending layers in Photoshop….many of us work hard to show the full dynamic range in our shots.  Oddly enough, the Palouse is one of those venues where that might not be necessary..or even preferred.  Those dark shadows contrasted by the brilliant crests of the hills seems to me to be a big part of the beauty of the Palouse.  Do yourself a favor and try processing some shots where you can’t see every detail in the shadows…you might like the result.

Haze:   I found that I had to use the clarity slider in Photoshop liberally to combat this issue.

Palouse Photography Tips:  A Guide for Visitors

Related Images:

This post has 8 comments.

Please feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you truly are interested in a tour of the barn and taking pictures from the surrounding hill side. I will gladly return to Pullman, as we still have family in the area. Take time to look at the “Leonard Round Barn” Web page. We have one visit to the farm scheduled in the Spring, 1920. Exact date still not determined. [email protected]

Hi Peggy, Thanks so much for your kind offer! I’m not sure when my schedule will allow me to visit the Palouse again, but I’ll pop you note when I do. Thanks again, Jeff

Johnny Boyd

This worth a read concerning the Chamber’s map. http://palousemap.blogspot.com/

Hi Johnny, I already have a link to Teri Lou’s map and that article in the paragraph titled “Other Locations.” Teri Lou did a great job creating the map and I certainly want to make sure she gets full credit and fair compensation for her work!

Rod Schwartz

Jeff, I’ve really enjoyed reading your tips and will post a link to this site at PalousePics.com, to give you exposure to a wider audience. You’re right about the Pullman Chamber’s brochures. I should also mention their “Picture Perfect Palouse” Facebook page, which has become a great magnet for visitors and locals alike to share their images. Next time you’re in the area, give me a shout. I’m easy to find. Keep up the great work! -Rod

Hi Rod, Thanks for the exposure…never hurts! Plus I will definitely take you up on your offer next time I make it out to your beautiful Palouse!

Thanks for the very valuable information. I am considering a visit in early April due to my own birthday and Spring Break for my son. We will be spending a few days. You suggested contacting a local photo guide for better access, etc. Sounds really good. How do you suggest I look for one?

Thanks again.

Hi Farzad, Since I haven’t actually toured with any of the companies that have tours in the Palouse, I’d suggest just doing a Google search. Another option is to check TripAdvisor, since they will give you reviews of the tours. I wish I could be more help! Jeff

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