Book Your Seat on the PhotoPills Expedition to New Zealand’s Untouched Fiordland before April 27th and Get €500 Off (Only 4 Spots Left)
We’re going to New Zealand’s Fiordland (South Island)...
This isn’t just a trip...
It’s an adventure into the unknown, a journey into a world that feels almost mythical.
Are you in?
Around the New Moon...
From September 12th to September 23rd 2025, Marco Grassi and Daniel Murray (PhotoPills Masters) will embark on an extraordinary journey across New Zealand’s untouched Fiordland (South Island) to photograph the Golden Light, the Milky Way and the Aurora Australis along with some of the treasures hidden in this southern hemisphere (lost) paradise...
Onboard an Exclusive Private Cruise (with a Private Chef!), we’ll navigate through Fiordland’s most secluded fiords and untouched landscapes... Places where few photographers have ever set foot.
One of the darkest skies on the planet!
Of course...
We’ll be taking photos all day long...
But...
Can you imagine it?
To photograph the Southern Hemisphere’s Milky Way, the magical Golden Light and the hypnotic Aurora Australis along with narrow fiord passages and misty peaks, cascading waterfalls, remote wild beaches and rugged sea stacks, exuberant rainforests lined with iconic ferns, crystal-clear alpine lakes, massive cliffs, glass-like reflections, infinite coastlines, hidden coves, other-worldly rock formations... and the diverse wildlife: bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, royal albatross, shearwaters... And maybe even humpback whales and Fiordland crested penguins, one of the rarest penguin species on the planet!
We’re dreaming about it!
To achieve it, we’ll use the planning power of PhotoPills and the expert knowledge of Marco Grassi and Daniel Murray to always be at the right place at the right time.
Top secret: we have quite a few legendary photos planned already ;)
The Deal (Only 4 Spots Left)
We're offering you a €500 discount on the regular price!
All you have to do is to book 1 of the 4 spots available before Sunday April 27th.
Read carefully all the details of this unique adventure.
And when you’re ready, click here to book your spot:
Please, book as soon as possible. The seats are sold on a first come, first served basis.
The Adventure
12 PhotoPillers | 2 PhotoPills Masters | New Zealand’s Fiordland | Endless legendary photos
Warning! This is not a honeymoon... But it’s pretty close.
We’ll set sail on a private high-end cruise through one of the most breathtaking and untouched landscapes on Earth...
Oh, and did we mention it? A private chef will be preparing mouthwatering meals for us every day!
Long story short...
We’re on the hunt for 12 fearless PhotoPillers (aka PhotoPills and photography nerds) to join us on a 12-day, once-in-a-lifetime expedition deep into the heart of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park.
Together, we’ll chase the Southern Hemisphere’s Milky Way, the golden light of Spring, and the elusive Aurora Australis, all while exploring some of the most breathtaking and remote landscapes on the planet.
Sailing through the breathtaking Preservation and Chalky Inlets, and venturing into the legendary Dusky, Breaksea, and Doubtful Sounds, we’ll be fully immersed in the heart of Fiordland National Park... one of New Zealand’s most untouched and awe-inspiring landscapes.
These remote waterways, carved by ancient glaciers, are framed by sheer, forest-draped cliffs and punctuated by cascading waterfalls that plunge into deep, glassy fiords.
The sheer scale and untamed beauty of this wilderness create an atmosphere of profound solitude and wonder, offering a rare chance to experience nature in its purest form.
For multiple days, we’ll have the privilege of experiencing the fiords from different perspectives and at various times of day, allowing us to fully absorb their grandeur.
And after our epic voyage at sea... we’ll head to Milford Sound to capture its dramatic peaks and mirror-like reflections in the changing light.
So...
This expedition is a non-stop adventure to chase legendary photos and you are a key asset!
We have tons of incredible shots planned and will adapt on the fly to make the most of every moment.
If we're fortunate enough to be out photographing the Milky Way (or the Aurora Australis) at night and it takes us into the late hours, we'll take a little extra sleep the next morning, skip Sunrise and kick start our day a bit later.
On the other hand, if the conditions make us skip the astrophotography session, we'll rise and shine early to catch the Sunrise.
One thing is certain: We’ll always be right where the magic happens – ready to capture once-in-a-lifetime shots!
You are about to embark on a PhotoPills’ style journey. And it’s not going to be a honeymoon precisely... :P
You’ll be a true PhotoPiller!
Are you in?
Day 1. Friday, September 12th - Welcome to New Zealand
11:00 am
It’s Friday morning, and you land at Queenstown Airport (ZQN).
Queenstown is a picturesque resort town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand's South land, renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery and vibrant energy.
Surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal clear waters, Queenstown is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering activities such as bungee jumping, jet boating, skiing, and mountain biking.
But we’re not here for that, are we? ;)
Beyond its thrill-seeking reputation, the town's lively atmosphere, combined with its stunning natural surroundings, makes it an ideal starting point for our Expedition...
12:30 pm
It’s time to meet Marco Grassi and Daniel Murray, your PhotoPills Masters for the expedition... and the rest of PhotoPillers in this adventure.
Once everyone is on board our vehicle, we’ll head to Te Anau, our first destination.
2:30 pm
Nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake on New Zealand’s South Island, Te Anau is our gateway to Fiordland National Park.
This picturesque town offers a perfect mix of majestic landscapes, pristine waters, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal stop before venturing deeper into the wilderness of Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and beyond.
Tonight we’ll sleep at the Radfords on the Lake, a beautiful lakefront accommodation.
After checking in, you have a bit of time to relax.
3:05 pm
Expedition briefing and PhotoPills class.
Time to kick things off!
Daniel and Marco will walk you through the adventure ahead, covering everything from logistics and locations to the epic photo opportunities we’ve carefully planned for you.
They’ll also go over:
- Essential gear recommendations so you’re fully prepared.
- Important safety guidelines to keep the expedition smooth and safe.
- Insider tips on how to make the most of every location.
Right after the briefing, we’ll dive into a special PhotoPills session... Because great photos don’t just happen, they’re planned!
Get ready to level up your planning skills with pro tips and tricks that will help you find, visualize, and set up your shots faster than ever before.
This is your chance to master the tools that will make capturing legendary shots a whole lot easier.
Let’s get to it!
4:45 pm
Grab your gear for our first Sunset session.
Are you ready?
5:30 pm
After a short 5-minute drive, we arrive at Marakura Wharf, a stunning wooden jetty stretching into the vast expanse of Lake Te Anau.
This natural leading line composition effortlessly guides the eye toward the breathtaking Fiordland mountains, standing tall in the distance.
But hey!
Don’t rush just yet.
You’re on a PhotoPills Expedition, remember?
Before picking your perfect shooting spot, take a moment to check PhotoPills and see exactly where the Sun will set. Planning is key to capturing that legendary shot!
The golden hour is in full swing, casting a warm, soft glow over the rugged peaks, painting the sky in hues of amber and rose.
The scene is pure magic... Whether you're capturing the Sunset from the jetty, playing with long exposures to smooth the lake’s surface, or simply taking in the beauty of the shifting light.
As the golden tones fade, blue hour takes over, wrapping the landscape in a soft, moody stillness.
The lake turns into a mirror, reflecting the cool twilight hues, while we soak in the last tranquil moments before the night settles in.
Golden hour begins at 5:54 pm, Sunset is at 6:33 pm, golden hour ends at 6:51 pm and blue hour ends at 7:03 pm.
7:05 pm
It’s time to return to Te Anau and have dinner in a tasty local restaurant we know.
7:55 pm
You’ve got two choices: head back to the hotel for some well-earned rest or let your inner PhotoPiller take the lead and chase the Milky Way at a secret spot.
So... what’s it going to be?
8:15 pm
At night, Lake Te Anau takes on an almost otherworldly beauty.
The entire landscape falls silent, and with minimal light pollution (Bortle Class 1), the sky transforms into a vast, glittering expanse of stars.
The Milky Way arcs across the horizon, making this a dream location for astrophotography.
This is a rare chance to capture the Southern Hemisphere’s night sky in its purest form... A spectacle few places on Earth can rival.
If the weather cooperates, we’ll have the perfect shot of the Galactic Center rising above Fiordland’s rugged peaks.
And if the lake is completely still?
We might even witness a breathtaking reflection of the stars, doubling the magic of the night.
And the Moon is under the horizon...
Plan & Pray!
The astronomical twilight begins at 7:37 pm and the Galactic Center is visible from 8:11 pm until 3:28 am. The waning gibbous Moon (72%) rises at 12:30 am.
10:50 pm
What a day!
Tomorrow, the adventure in Fiordland begins...
Rest up and dream big, team!
Photographic pills:
- Sunset, golden hour, and blue hour with the jetty at Marakura Wharf.
- Milky Way and Star Trails at Lake Te Anau.
Days 2-7. Saturday, September 13th to Thursday, September 18th - The Fiordland Voyage
6:30 am
Good morning PhotoPillers!
We're off on an incredible adventure along the remote and rugged Fiordland.
We’re about to see places most people never get the chance to...
Experience things we never even imagined...
And make memories that will stick with us for a lifetime.
But first... Breakfast at the Radfords on the Lake!
We need to get some energy before we jump into everything that’s ahead!
9:00 am
Some exciting things are about to happen...
After checking out of our hotel, let’s head to the Southern Lakes Helicopters Hangar.
We need to check in, before boarding the helicopters!
What could be more memorable than soaring high above Fiordland National Park and taking in views that very few get to see?
9:30 am
The first helicopter lifts off!
Its destination: our amazing boat, the Fiordland Jewel, anchored in Preservation
Inlet (or Dusky Sound depending on the weather conditions).
During the flight, you’ll set eyes from the first time into the remote beauty of Fiordland National Park...
The park is made up of several fiords that were carved by glaciers thousands of years ago, including the incredible: Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, Breaksea Sound Preservation Inlet and Chalky Inlet.
Fiordland is most famous for its deep fiords but it’s also home to stunning alpine lakes, huge waterfalls, rainforest, and unique wildlife.
10:15 am
Arrive onboard our private boat for the next 5 days, the Fiordland Jewel.
Yes, that’s right, we’ll have the boat for ourselves!
Do you want to know more about it?
For starters, it’s an incredible 24-meter, three-deck catamaran that takes exploring the stunning Fiordland region to another level.
The vessel is packed with special features that make it stand out.
It has a top-deck hot tub – imagine soaking in warm water while gazing at the dramatic fiords around you! :)
There’s also a helicopter pad, making it easy for scenic arrivals, like the one you just experienced.
But one of the coolest things is the Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV), the first of its kind in Fiordland. It sends live high-resolution footage of the underwater world straight to the lounge, so you can see the fascinating marine life beneath the surface without even getting wet.
All cabins come with private ensuite bathrooms, so there’s no roughing it here.
The shared spaces are just as impressive. The main saloon and dining area have cozy seating for up to 22 guests (so we’ll have tons of room for all of us!), and there’s a licensed bar and galley kitchen, along with complimentary tea and coffee that you can drink at any time.
The boat carries a crew of four to five people (including our on board chef!) who ensure everything runs smoothly.
For adventures on the water, there’s a tender boat and eight kayaks, giving you plenty of ways to explore the fiords up close.
But the best of it all is that whether you’re relaxing indoors or enjoying the open-air deck, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world...
And we’ll be on our own...
11:00 am
As soon as everyone is onboard, we’ll start our voyage across the spectacular fiords!
If you’re even slightly considering a trip to Fiordland, this boat is the way to do it. It offers the perfect mix of adventure, comfort, and exclusivity. That’s great because you get to experience one of the world’s most remote and stunning regions without sacrificing luxury.
Oh!...
One small detail before we start admiring the landscape and taking pictures of the beauty surrounding us.
Fiordland National Park is also one of the wettest places in New Zealand and it rains here around 200 days per year with an annual rainfall of around 7 m (23 ft)!
With so much rain we may not be welcomed with blue skies...
But who cares!
Because Fiordland National Park is almost more beautiful during the rain.
Although hard to believe, during rain, thousands of waterfalls are created in the valleys along the steep cliffs – it’s truly magical!
The cruise will take us through Preservation and Chalky Inlets... Then Dusky, Breaksea and Doubtful Sounds... weather permitting of course! ;)
But the cool thing about navigating with our own boat is that the captain will always make sure that we make the most of our time and experience the best of what the fiords have to offer, which is a lot!
Have I told you that there’s no shortage of incredible photo opportunities here?
As the light changes throughout the day, the landscape takes on a whole new character – soft and warm in the morning, rich and golden at Sunset, or dramatic and misty when the clouds roll in.
The still waters create amazing reflections, sometimes so perfect they look like a mirror, only broken by the occasional ripple.
And every day, there’s a new way to experience and photograph the fiords, whether you’re on a boat, paddling in a kayak, or hiking through the trails.
Doubtful Sound, one of the voyage’s highlights, is the second-largest fiord in Fiordland National Park, and there’s a reason people call it “the sound of silence”.
Unlike its more famous neighbor, Milford Sound, it doesn’t get nearly as many visitors. But that’s not because of the scenery – it’s just as breathtaking.
The real challenge, as you just experienced yourselves, is getting there.
Surrounded by rugged peaks, covered in dense green rainforest, and dotted with hidden coves and caves, this place has a way of making you stop and take it all in. It’s the kind of beauty that leaves you at a loss for words.
The Māori name for Dusky Sound is Tamatea.
Imagine standing in a place where beams of sunlight break through the clouds, casting a glow over the water, with mountains towering in the distance.
Dusky Sound is one of those places that feels truly untouched.
At 40 km (24.9 mi) long and up to 8 km (5 mi) wide, it’s the largest of Fiordland’s 14 sounds, dotted with several small islands along the way.
The scenery here is next-level. Think rugged mountains and countless waterfalls tumbling down the cliffs thanks to the extra rainfall.
It’s also a hotspot for wildlife... You’re likely to spot seals lounging on the rocks or dolphins playing in the water.
In fact, within the fiords, you can find New Zealand Fur Seals, bottlenose dolphins, Fiordland Crested Penguins, and even the occasional humpback whale.
And speaking of animals... You may also have some opportunities to fish!
Our private chef will surely have some secret recipe under her sleeve to cook us something delicious with today’s catch... ;)
But the best of it all is that you can experience these wildlife encounters from your own kayak...
Kayaking in New Zealand's fiords is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and nature of Fiordland. From a kayak, the experience is completely different than from the shore or on our boat...
From your tiny kayak, you really feel so small, like you’re floating among giants!
Take photos and explore the whole bay all while keeping an eye out for some of the area’s unique wildlife.
So as you can see, whether you’re watching marine life from the lounge, kayaking through the fiords, or stargazing from the hot tub, every moment on the Fiordland Jewel is unforgettable.
When the day starts winding down, that golden hour light kicks in, making everything look amazing – soft, warm tones that really bring out the textures in the cliffs and the greenery.
If there’s a bit of mist in the air, it adds this dreamy, almost otherworldly vibe.
And there’s so much to capture! Wide, sweeping views that stretch for miles, plus all the little details like waterfalls tumbling down the rocks or wildlife going about their evening routine.
Plenty of ways to get creative with your shots.
When the night finally comes, we’ll gather to share anecdotes and experiences that occurred during our day.
We’ll be all together around a delicious dinner, while toasting with a glass of wine.
Because life is good...
We’re in a unique place taking amazing photos...
And we deserve these little pleasures from time to time, don’t we? ;)
Tomorrow, we’ll wake up in the morning and we’ll go over everything we’ve been through again.
Ready to accept the challenge?
Photographic pills:
- Sunrise, golden hour and blue hour in Fiordland National Park.
- Midday shots in the fiords.
- Sunset, golden hour and blue hour in Fiordland National Park.
- Milky Way and Star Trails in Fiordland National Park.
Day 8. Friday, September 19th - Fiordland’s Mirrors
6:25 am
OK PhotoPillers... Time to get up!
Get dressed and stand on the deck – Sunrise is at 6:47 am and you surely don’t want to miss this last one!
10:00 am
Now that our wonderful cruise around the fiords is over, we need to retrace our steps.
But this time, we’ll do it differently.
To travel from Doubtful Sound to Lake Manapouri, we’ll begin by boarding a coach at Deep Cove that will take you over the scenic Wilmot Pass, a 671-meter-high route offering breathtaking views of Fiordland's landscapes.
Upon reaching the West Arm of Lake Manapouri, we’ll transfer to a boat that will ferry us across the lake to the township of Manapouri. From there, it's a short 20-minute scenic lakeside drive to Te Anau.
12:00 pm
Mission accomplished ! Let’s drive to Te Anau where a fantastic lunch awaits.
1:55 pm
Once at our hotel, the Radfords on the Lake, we check in and rest for a while.
5:35 pm
After a 40-minute drive, we arrive at our Sunset shooting spot – the fabulous Mirror Lakes!
The lakes are renowned for their stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, creating a perfect canvas for photographers...
A wooden viewing platform and short walking track run along the lakes, one of which has a deliberately mirrored sign mounted just above the water's surface, so that the name "Mirror Lakes" is shown correctly in its reflection.
The water is so calm, it’s hard to believe the effect it produces...
But you don’t have to trust me – better see it with your own eyes :)
Golden hour begins at 6:02 pm, Sunset is at 6:41 pm, golden hour ends at 7:00 pm and the blue hour ends at 7:11 pm.
7:15 pm
Time to drive back to Te Anau.
8:00 pm
After a full day, we’ll enjoy a well deserved dinner in a nice place in Te Anau.
9:30 pm
After a delicious dinner you have two options...
You either return to the hotel and enjoy a peaceful rest or, led by your PhotoPiller spirit, you embark on a quest to chase the Milky Way in a secret spot!
9:55 pm
At night, the surroundings of Lake Te Anau turn into this calm, almost magical spot, perfect for astrophotography. With no light pollution, the sky becomes super clear and full of stars, and the Milky Way just stretches out across the horizon.
It's one of those rare chances to capture the Southern Hemisphere’s night sky in such a breathtaking natural setting.
If the sky is clear, you have a chance to capture the Galactic Center of the Milky Way along with some majestic peaks. If the water’s still, it might even reflect the stars!
Oh!
And if luck is on our side and the Aurora Australis ignites the sky, we’ll stay out for hours, capturing every mesmerizing wave of light as it dances across the Southern Hemisphere!
The astronomical twilight begins at 7:45 pm and the Galactic Center is visible from 8:20 pm until 3:00 am. The waning crescent Moon (6.1%) rises at 6:03 am.
12:15 am
Bed time!
Rest is essential, as we prepare for the next adventure.
Tomorrow...
Surprise, surprise!
A helicopter will take us above the Fiords!
Photographic Pills:
- Sunset, golden hour and blue hour at Mirror Lakes.
- Milky Way, Star Trails and maybe Aurora Australis at Lake Te Anau.
Day 9. Saturday, September 20th - Above the Fiords
5:20 am
Wake up!
Let’s pack our photography bags and meet at the lobby...
Our helicopter awaits!
5:50 am
Brief drive to Te Anau heliport. Today we’ll be photographing the fiords from above.
6:15 am
As the engines start up, we lift off, and right there in front of us is Doubtful Sound, one of New Zealand’s most remote and pristine fiords, offers unparalleled natural beauty, and viewing it from above elevates the experience to a whole new level.
After a scenic helicopter ride at Sunrise, we will land on a Secret Peak high above the fiord, providing a breathtaking vantage point that showcases the vast expanse of the surrounding landscapes.
From this elevated position, you’ll see the rugged cliffs, lush rainforests, and winding waterways of Doubtful Sound stretching into the distance.
The journey itself is an experience, with approximately 50 minutes of flying time. Each of us will have a window seat, offering uninterrupted views of the incredible landscapes below – perfect for capturing stunning shots during the flight.
Blue hour begins at 6:15 am, golden hour begins at 6:26 am, Sunrise is at 6:44 am, and the golden hour ends at 7:24 am.
8:45 am
After the flight, we return to the hotel for breakfast, swapping stories about our time in the sky and showing off our best photos.
The smell of fresh coffee and pastries fills the air, making the whole experience even better... :)
10:00 am
We're heading to Milford Sound, so get ready for an amazing trip. Every twist and turn along the way feels like nature is painting a masterpiece right in front of you.
After checking out from the hotel, we make a quick stop to buy snacks and something for lunch. Today, we’ll have lunch on our way to Milford Sound, in one of the photo stops we’ll make.
11:10 am
The drive is packed with stunning views. We can’t resist pulling over a few times, especially at Mirror Lakes, where the water is so calm it perfectly reflects everything.
It’s one of those spots you can revisit over and over to capture a photo.
12:10 pm
We take a nice walk over to Marian Falls, and once we’re there, we spend some time capturing the beauty of the falls and the vibrant greenery around it.
It’s a great spot for long exposure photography, so that’ll be the main thing to focus on.
1:55 pm
Next, we embark on a scenic drive towards Christie Falls in Fiordland National Park.
Because there are so many other impressive and tall waterfalls in the area, this sometimes gets left behind, but it shouldn’t be. It’s extremely scenic, and adds a little bit of variety to the waterfalls you’ll likely see along the way.
2:30 pm
We also stop at Monkey Creek.
Monkey Creek sits in the stunning Hollyford Valley, and it’s not just any creek – it’s a glacier-fed spring with water so pure you can drink it straight from the source.
Beyond the crystal-clear water and the towering mountains all around, this spot is also a great place to see some of New Zealand’s unique wildlife.
If you’re lucky, you might spot a rare whio (blue duck) in the creek.
And in the carpark? That’s a hot spot for kea, New Zealand’s famous alpine parrots.
Kea aren’t your average birds... They can grow up to 50 cm (19 in) tall, with olive-green feathers and a flash of bright orange under their wings. They’re crazy smart, super curious, and a little bit cheeky, so watch out – they might just take an interest in your gear!
3:45 pm
We get to our hotel, the Milford Sound Lodge, where we check in and take a quick break.
5:10 pm
Milford Sound is the kind of place that looks too perfect to be real, especially with Mitre Peak (1,692 m or 5,551 ft) standing tall in the background.
The whole area is a dream if you love photography, with its dramatic fiord landscape and constantly changing light.
What makes this even better? We’ll be there at low tide, which completely transforms the scenery. Areas that are usually underwater will be exposed, revealing all sorts of cool rocks and tidal pools to check out.
And with Mitre Peak reflecting in the water? It’s going to be an incredible spot to capture some seriously stunning shots.
Golden hour begins at 6:03 pm, Sunset is at 6:42 pm, golden hour ends at 7:00 pm and the blue hour ends at 7:11 pm.
7:25 pm
We head back to Milford Sound Lodge, the perfect spot to unwind and take a moment to soak in everything we've experienced.
7:30 pm
Dinner time!
9:00 pm
What if... The sky is crystal clear!
Milford Sound is one of those places that blows you away during the day and then gets even more magical at night. It's a perfect spot for stargazing and photographing the Milky Way because the skies are super dark with hardly any light pollution.
At night, the bay, along with those famous mountain peaks, transforms into a whole new world – just the kind of place where you’d want to set up your camera for some epic night shots.
For this shoot, we’ll be setting up on the left side of the beach, facing west, which is key to capturing the Milky Way’s Galactic Center in the shot. The Milky Way will be diagonal and the core on the left side of Mitre Peak, which is great for single shots and for panoramas as well.
And if the Aurora Australis is active, we’ll be ready, at the right planned shooting spot, to immortalize the moment :)
Plan & Pray!
The astronomical twilight begins at 7:46 pm and the Galactic Center is visible from 8:20 pm until 2:53 am. The New Moon (0.2%) rises at 6:20 am.
11:45 pm
Off to bed!
Photographic Pills:
- Sunrise ascent with a scenic flight over the formidable Doubtful Sound, capturing the grandeur of this remote fiord from above.
- The journey to Te Anau, seizing the dynamic landscapes that unfold along the way, including the serene reflections at Mirror Lakes and long exposure photography at Marian Falls, Christie Falls and Monkey Creek.
- Sunset, golden hour and blue hour at Milford Sound.
- Milky Way, Star Trails and maybe Aurora Australis at Milford Sound.
Day 10. Sunday, September 21st - The Secret
I’ve been giving you lots of details of this amazing expedition to New Zealand.
Maybe far too many...
But on September 21st we’ll do something very special...
What will that be?
Well, you'll have to be there, with us, to figure it out :P
Day 11. Monday, September 22nd - The Skyline
5:15 am
The alarm buzzes... Time to get up!
The day starts early to seize the serene ambiance of Milford Sound at sunrise. The morning light is promising for capturing the landscape’s awakening.
6:10 am
It’s just a short drive and an easy walk to get to the perfect sunrise spot. At 6:37 am, the tide will be low, which means you’ll get to see some really cool patterns and textures on the shore – perfect for capturing some unique shots.
By the time the blue hour rolls in, we’ll already be set up, cameras in hand, enjoying that soft, peaceful morning light before the sun even peeks over the horizon.
Then comes golden hour, when the light turns everything magical, especially the peaks. That’s when you get those dramatic, glowing shots that look straight out of a postcard.
And the real show?
That’s when the Sun finally breaks over the horizon, lighting up the whole fiord.
A wide-angle lens will help capture the full scene, but a telephoto lens could be awesome for zooming in on the peaks as they catch the first light.
Once that golden glow starts to fade, we’ll wrap up the shoot... Hopefully with some epic shots of Milford Sound at its absolute best in the morning.
Blue hour begins at 6:08 am, golden hour begins at 6:19 am, Sunrise is at 6:37 am, and the golden hour ends at 7:16 am.
8:05 am
We walk back for a well-deserved breakfast, and then we pack all our stuff up.
9:35 am
After checking out from our hotel, we start our journey to Queenstown.
But first, we’ll stop in Te Anau for a quick bite (what about a delicious pie?).
11:40 am
After filling our stomachs, we set off for Queenstown!
1:40 pm
We arrive in Queenstown.
This is one of those places that just takes your breath away. Sitting right on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by towering mountains like The Remarkables, it’s basically an adventure lover’s paradise.
Back in the 1860s, it was just a quiet farming settlement until gold was discovered a few years later. That changed everything.
Since then, the energy hasn’t faded. These days, it’s all about tourism, and for good reason.
They call it the ‘Adventure Capital of the World,’ and they’re not kidding. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, bungy jumping, paragliding, or rafting, this place has it all. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, you won’t be disappointed!
Let’s check in at our hotel, the Crown Plaza Queenstown. After that you can relax or go for a walk...
5:15 pm
After a quick drive, we get to Skyline Queenstown and hop on the famous Skyline Gondola.
This ride isn’t just any cable car...
It’s the steepest one in the Southern Hemisphere, and the views along the way are absolutely unreal!
Once we reach the top, the whole of Queenstown stretches out in front of us, right along the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
And behind it?
The Remarkables mountain range stands tall, making the whole scene look straight out of a postcard.
It’s a dream spot, especially as the Sun starts to set.
When the blue hour sets in, the town begins to light up, and that mix of natural twilight and city glow makes everything feel almost ethereal.
When the timing’s just right, we’ll set up for the shot – capturing that perfect moment when the last bit of daylight fades, the lights flicker on, and Queenstown’s skyline shines against the deepening blue.
It’s the kind of scene that sticks with you long after you’ve packed up the camera.
Golden hour begins at 6:03 pm, Sunset is at 6:41 pm, golden hour ends at 7:00 pm and blue hour ends at 7:11 pm.
7:20 pm
We take the Skyline Gondola back and return to the hotel to drop off our gear.
7:45 pm
We meet at the lobby and go for a delicious dinner in a super nice restaurant we love.
How cool is that, huh?
9:30 pm
We head back to our cozy rooms, already thinking about the amazing photos we're going to take tomorrow... from way up in the sky!
Photographic pills:
- Sunrise, golden hour and blue hour at Milford Sound.
- Sunset, golden hour and blue hour from the Skyline complex in Queenstown.
Day 12. Tuesday, September 23rd - The Farewell
5:00 am
Wake up! Today we have one final picture that we want to capture.
And we don’t want to be late for our last Sunrise... ;)
6:00 am
We kick off the day with a short 20-minute drive to Moke Lake, a peaceful little spot that feels like a well-kept secret.
The still water and quiet surroundings make it the perfect place to start the morning.
Before the Sun comes up, everything is wrapped in this soft, cool light. It’s that quiet, almost dreamlike moment before the world fully wakes up...
Then, as the golden hour approaches, we wait for the Sun to make its grand entrance. That first warm light touches the clouds and the lake, setting the stage for something pretty magical.
Finally, the Sun rises, painting the sky with colors while its reflection shimmers on the water. Light and shadow play across the lake, and you can’t help but reach for your camera to capture it all, can you?
Blue hour begins at 6:03 am, golden hour begins at 6:15 am, Sunrise is at 6:32 am, and the golden hour ends at 7:12 am.
7:50 am
After retracing our steps and a short drive, we’re back at the hotel where we take our time to have a delicious and well deserved breakfast.
Then, it’s time to check out and grab our luggage...
10:00 am
As we make our way toward Queenstown Airport, we recall all the amazing locations we’ve captured, although each mile brings us closer to wrapping up the adventure.
10:20 am
Our journey’s coming to an end at Queenstown Airport, and...
Wow! What a ride it’s been!
Thinking back on everything we’ve experienced in Fiordland, it’s hard not to feel a mix of amazement and gratitude.
We chased starlight, stood in the mist of towering waterfalls, and soared above rugged peaks. Every moment has been nothing short of unforgettable.
A huge thank you to each and every one of you for the laughs, the early wake-up calls, and those freezing-but-magical nights under the stars.
This adventure wouldn’t have been the same without you.
Here’s to the shots we took, the moments we lived, and the memories we’re bringing home.
Until the next adventure, safe travels, dream big, and may the light always be with you!
Book Now and Save €500 (Only 4 Spots Left)
Please book your spot on our Expedition to New Zealand’s Fiordland before Sunday April 27th, and get a €500 discount on the following prices based on your cruise cabin preference:
Vip Super King Option (Single room, Sold Out)
BOOK NOW: VIP SUPER KING (SINGLE)
Cruise cabin details:
- 1 Super-king double bed.
- Sea views (full width forward window and large side windows).
- Separate Private shower and toilet.
- Located on the Sun deck (top deck).
Hotel occupancy: Single room.
Expedition price per person:
- Total Expedition price: €16,000
- Discount: €500
- Final Expedition price: €15,500
- Booking deposit: €3,000
Note: If you’re a couple interested in this room, please contact us via [email protected].
Super King Option (Single room, Only 2 Room Left)
Cruise cabin details:
- 1 Super-king double bed.
- Sea views.
- Separate Private shower and toilet.
- Located on the main deck.
Hotel occupancy: Single room.
Expedition price per person:
- Total Expedition price: €15,000
- Discount: €500
- Final Expedition price: €14,500
- Booking deposit: €3,000
King Twin Option (Sharing room, Only 1 Room Left)
Cruise cabin details:
- 2 king single beds for 2 people.
- Sea views.
- Separate Private shower and toilet.
- Located on the main deck.
Hotel occupancy: Twin room (2 beds) for 2 people.
Expedition price per person:
- Total Expedition price: €12,000
- Discount: €500
- Final Expedition price per person: €11,500
- Booking deposit: €3,000
Quad Cabin Option (Sharing room, Sold Out)
BOOK NOW: QUAD CABIN (SHARING)
Cruise cabin details:
- 2 bunk beds (4 beds) for 2 people.
- Sea views.
- Combined Private shower and toilet.
- Located on the main deck.
Hotel occupancy: Twin room (2 beds) for 2 people.
Expedition price per person:
- Total Expedition price: €11,000
- Discount: €500
- Final Expedition price per person: €10,500
- Booking deposit: €3,000
The balance payment will be made via two payments due on the following dates:
- May 25th, 2025
- June 22nd, 2025
Please, finalize your booking as soon as possible. The seats are sold on a first come, first served basis.
What’s included in the price
- The PhotoPills Welcome pack.
- A 12-day expedition photographing New Zealand Fiordland’s (South Island) most iconic features along with the Golden Light, the Milky Way and the Aurora Australis.
- 12 days of learning, fun and adventure with Marco Grassi, Daniel Murray (PhotoPills Masters) and the funniest geek community – the PhotoPillers.
- Full immersion in the PhotoPills method (Imagine.Plan.Shoot!).
- Ground transportation during the expedition.
- Activities:
- Secret day special activities (super fun).
- 1 Sunrise scenic helicopter flight to a secret peak to photograph Fiordland from above.
- Farewell dinner in a fantastic restaurant we love in Queenstown.
- All lodging:
- 1 night at Crowne Plaza Queenstown (bed and breakfast).
- 2 nights at Milford Sound Lodge (bed, breakfast and dinner).
- 2 nights at Radfords on the Lake (bed and breakfast).
- 6 nights aboard a three-deck catamaran with a high quality 5-star marine fit-out (helicopter pad, top deck hot tub, Remote Operating Vehicle, 8 kayaks) and 9 climate-controlled cabins, each with their own ensuite bathroom (bed, breakfast, lunch and dinner).
What’s not included
- Flights/transport to Queenstown, New Zealand.
- Tourist visa (if necessary).
- International medical and travel insurance coverage (strongly recommended).
- All meals and beverages, except those expressly indicated in the "What’s included in the price" section.
- Snacks, alcohol and beverages.
- Anything not mentioned in the “included” list.
Do you want an example of how huge this will be?
This is a glimpse to what happened in the PhotoPills Expedition to Iceland. We had so many adventures and so much fun... We can’t wait for New Zealand (Fiordland)!
But you don’t have to take our word for granted. Here’s what some PhotoPillers say about the PhotoPills adventures:
“I went to Iceland expecting to have the opportunity to photograph the marvelous landscape and master nightscapes. What I encountered was so much more – 14 kindred souls from across the globe who share a passion for photography. Together we expanded our creative boundaries, learned from one another and had an insane amount of fun in the process. I am confident that everyone came away from the experience a better photographer.”
“From the very moment the guys from PhotoPills announced the expedition to Iceland... I didn’t think it twice! I was using PhotoPills but not at its full capacity, so I had no better chance to learn from the creators of this amazing app. The experience was even more amazing than anything I could have imagined. In Iceland, I discovered a bunch of folks as crazy about photography as I am. I had a blast!
Photography is a continuous learning process, you always find something new that motivates you to improve. And this adventure made me improve more than I could imagine.”
"The PhotoPills guys know how to create a fantastic experience. They bring an infectiously fun energy and are always willing to drop some handy photography knowledge on you that you will take with you. You take their trip and you'll for sure have a good time, get some amazing pics and leave a better photographer."
“During my experience in Iceland I lived wonderful moments and had surprises that were beyond the expected. It completely exceeded my initial expectations! Sharing knowledge, experiences and ways of working and living photography with such a great group has been one of the most enriching life experiences I have ever had.
Who he said that learning and knowledge sharing can not be wonderfully fun?”
“I can't say enough about what a fantastic time I had during the PhotoPills Iceland photo tour! The guys from PhotoPills and Donal Boyd were so knowledgeable, accommodating, and especially lots of fun. Never a dull moment – nonstop action and shooting of amazing landscapes for 10 days. I came away with enough images and memories to last a lifetime!”
FAQs
What’s the temperature in New Zealand in September?
September in New Zealand marks the beginning of spring, so temperatures are cool but gradually warming up. Here’s what you can expect:
- Daytime: 5ºC to 13ºC (41ºF to 55ºF)
- Nighttime: -1ºC to 5ºC (30ºF to 41ºF) (Expect frost on colder nights)
Cold southerly winds can make it feel even chillier, especially near the fiords.
Also, Fiordland is one of the wettest places on Earth! So expect around 200-400mm (8-16 in) of rain in September.
The fiords get about 200+ rainy days a year, and spring brings frequent showers and misty mornings... But that’s what makes the waterfalls so spectacular!
Oh, and higher altitudes (like the Milford Road and Key Summit) may still have snow.
You’ll need to be prepared for unpredictable spring weather in this rugged corner of New Zealand.
So, it’s key to wear different layers of clothing (base, middle and shell layers) to be able to adapt to any temperature change, snow and rain.
What do you recommend I bring along for the expedition?
Your sense of adventure and fun, your camera and your sense of humor, of course.
Besides that? Once you book your spot, we’ll send you further details and suggestions about what to bring (gear, clothing, etc.).
Is travel insurance included in the price of the expedition?
No. Participants are suggested to purchase national or international medical and travel insurance coverage.
Also, we recommend you to choose a travel insurance that:
- Covers trip cancellation costs.
- Covers Covid-19 health, travel and cancellation costs.
What is the cancellation policy?
We hope you don’t need to cancel your spot, but if a situation arises where you don’t have a choice, our cancellation policy is the following.
If you choose not to join the Expedition, a cancellation fee may apply. This fee will be equivalent to the cost of the Expedition, minus any savings or additional income we generate if we’re able to fill your spot with another participant.
If we’re able to fill your spot, we’ll refund the payments you’ve made, deducting a €300 administrative fee and any non-refundable costs retained by our travel partners.
However, if there are unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances at the destination or nearby that significantly affect the execution of the Expedition or the transportation of passengers to the destination, no penalty will be applied, and we will refund all payments you have made toward the Expedition.
Refunds will be paid by the same method that the original payment was made.
Credits: All images by Marco Grassi, Daniel Murray, Fiordland Discovery and iStock.
