In follow up to my Top 10 Amazing New Zealand Sunset Locations blog post, this time I am going to share my Top 10 New Zealand Sunrise locations that you just can't miss especially for landscape photography.
New Zealand is renowned for its stunning scenery, and capturing its beauty at sunrise is truly one of the best times of the day even if it means having to crawl out of bed when you really don't want to.
As the day breaks, the diverse landscapes of New Zealand are at their magical best ... with rugged coastlines, majestic mountains and tranquil lakes all illuminated in that beautiful early golden light, you won't regret being there for the show with your camera.
One of the best things I enjoy about sunrise photography is being at a location when there is hardly anyone there. The super early starts (if you want to capture colour in the sky you will need to be at a location at least 30 minutes before the sun actually rises) tend to put people off and you'll often find you have the place to yourself instead of battling any crowds.
Discovering the ideal location to witness this daily light show can be quite daunting due to the abundance of absolutely breathtaking spots to view the sunrise in New Zealand. So in this blog post, I have compiled a selection of my top sunrise destinations in New Zealand that offer unforgettable experiences and exceptional photo opportunities, provided the weather cooperates!
Whether you're on the North Island or the South Island, in my ‘Top 10 Amazing New Zealand Sunrise Locations Guide’ I share everything you need to know about each spot, what camera gear you’ll need, when to go and how to get there. Let's dive into the best sunset experiences New Zealand has to offer!
For ease of use and exact locations you can download my New Zealand Map and Guide, plus have access to travel itineraries and over 500 epic New Zealand photo locations, activities and places to stay.
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WHAT CAMERA GEAR TO TAKE WITH YOU TO PHOTOGRAPH THE SUNRISE IN NEW ZEALAND
As with capturing a sunrise, your experience will be significantly enhanced by having the appropriate camera equipment to capture the beauty and vivid colours of the scene.
The essential items I bring with me for sunrise photography include:
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings that will enable you to adjust exposure, aperture, and ISO for the best possible outcomes.
A sturdy tripod to ensure stability and reduce camera shake during longer exposures.
A wide angle lens, such as a 16-35mm, is excellent for capturing the vastness of the sky and landscape, while a telephoto lens, like a 70-200mm, can help isolate and emphasise specific elements of the scene.
A set of graduated neutral density (ND) filters to balance the exposure between the bright sky and darker foreground, or extending the shutter speed to create long exposure images.
A remote shutter release can help minimise vibrations, or if you're into adding yourself into the scene then this makes things a lot easier and allows you to operate the camera from where you are standing.
Extra batteries and memory cards.
Coffee!
WHICH SEASON IS BEST FOR THE NEW ZEALAND SUNRISE
When it comes to photographing sunrises in New Zealand, each season offers its own unique elements and qualities. From my own experience, I have shared the pros and cons to each season below:
SUMMER SUNRISE NEW ZEALAND
Sunrise photography in Summer means it is super early starts from December to February in New Zealand. If you're an early bird then there is no problem there ... however if you're not such a morning person then it is going to be hard to get out of bed for those colourful skies.
The Summer months come with longer days and clearer skies with vibrant, warm hues that enhance the beauty of the landscapes, whether you're at the beach, the lakes, a mountain, or in the city. The mild temperatures and pleasant weather also make it ideal for landscape photography, allowing you to explore different vantage points comfortably in the warm summer breeze.
AUTUMN SUNRISE NEW ZEALAND
As I mentioned in my Top 10 Amazing New Zealand Sunset Locations blog post, Autumn is actually my favourite time of the year for golden light and sunrise photography in particular. From the months of late March to May, the days begin to shorten and the sunrise times start later and later! With the cooler temperatures the skies often become clearer and more stable especially around the mountains, which then creates stunning and vibrant sunrise conditions. Some of the most colourful skies I have ever captured have been during the autumn months.
The vibrant autumn hues of the changing trees particularly in the South Island where the colours range from shades of red, orange, and yellow, create a beautiful backdrop that works so well with the warm tones of the sunrise. As the autumn season falls during the quieter period between peak tourist times, you can enjoy visiting popular sunrise locations with increased peace and serenity.
WINTER SUNRISE NEW ZEALAND
The winter months of June to August in New Zealand offer some of the most breathtaking conditions for sunrise photography with the lower temperatures creating clear and crisp air conditions. Colours can appear more vibrant in winter and the mountains are free from that overhanging cloud that can so often be present in other months.
A major advantage of winter sunrises in New Zealand is the later sunrise times - around 7:30 to 8:00am depending on the location you're in - allowing you to capture the magic of dawn without the very early start required in other seasons.
Whether you're after soft, misty mornings in the North Island or bold alpine scenes down south, New Zealand’s winter sunrises deliver a unique and unforgettable experience.
SPRING SUNRISE NEW ZEALAND
Photographing the sunrise in New Zealand during the spring months, from September to November, is a beautiful time of the year when there is often still some snow left on the mountains and the vibrant colours are starting to come out from hibernation over winter.
The only issue with sunrise during the Spring months in New Zealand is the very early start times and very long days. Spring typically offers a combination of clear skies and striking clouds, which enhance the beauty of sunrise and golden hour. The gentle climate and the natural rejuvenation of plants (especially Lupins in the South Island) create a picturesque environment, making spring a fantastic season for photographing the sunrise in New Zealand.
THE TOP 10 AMAZING SUNRISE NEW ZEALAND LOCATIONS
Sunrise locations from the North Island to the South Island
1. SUNRISE AT HOT WATER BEACH COROMANDEL
One of the prettiest beaches to capture at sunrise in the Coromandel is Hot Water Beach on the east coast of the North Island not far from Whitianga. The added bonus of being at this white sandy stretch of beach with the Pacific Ocean lapping the shores is that there is an underground natural hot water spring right on the beach meaning at low tide you can dig yourself a hot pool and have a soak!
Head to the left of the beach from the main car park and walk towards the cliff face and large rocks on the shore.
At sunrise you will be able to photograph the sun to the east with the hot springs in the foreground (if it's low tide). All you need to do is dig your own little pool and wait for the sun to come up. If it's not low tide the beach is still beautiful and there are some rocks around to practice sea scape photography. I would suggest taking your wide angle (16-35mm or similar) and mid range zoom (24-70mm) for this spot.
Drone photography is also allowed at Hot Water Beach and on a good day there are some amazing top down wave shots to be had.
Check out my Top 10 Best Beaches In Coromandel New Zealand blog for more locations in the Coromandel.
2. MOUNT MAUNGANUI MAUAO SUMMIT SUNRISE
Mauao, also known as Mount Maunganui, is a 232 metre high dormant volcanic cone located at the end of a peninsula in the town of Mount Maunganui (my home town!). It has in my opinion the best views on offer in the Bay of Plenty and is one of the most beautiful sunrise locations in the North Island of New Zealand.
Mauao is an important landmark for local Māori iwi, featuring heavily in local mythology and history. The Mauao summit track takes around 35 minutes one way and requires a good level of fitness. From the summit the views over Mount Maunganui and right out to Papamoa are incredible especially at sunrise. Mount Maunganui beach has been ranked Number 1 as New Zealand's Best Beach and was ranked one of the top 25 Best Beaches in the world for its magical white sandy beach stretching for miles and its beautiful blue water.
For sunrise you'll need to set off early (at least 45 minutes before actual sunrise) and take your wide angle lens with you. Once you reach the summit you will see a set of stairs which you can take photos from, and you can also access a small pathway that leads to a clearing in front of the stairs to take in more unobstructed views.
3. SUNRISE AT TE MATA PEAK HAWKES BAY
Te Mata Peak in the Hawkes Bay region of New Zealand is a dream location for sunrise photography, offering a breathtaking blend of rolling hills, dramatic cliff faces, and panoramic views stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Ruahine Ranges.
As the first light spills over the landscape, the peaks and valleys are bathed in golden light, and if you're lucky enough you might get to photograph the fog in the valley below during autumn and winter.
The summit is easily accessed via a formed road leading up to the lookout where these shots were taken. You can literally just jump out of the car from the car park and take some incredible photos. Take your wide angle and mid range zoom lens with you for this location.
4. TE REWA REWA BRIDGE SUNRISE NEW PLYMOUTH TARANAKI
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is an amazing pedestrian and cycleway bridge in New Plymouth, New Zealand. It's not your average bridge however, it has an incredible steel arch design that looks like it's swaying in the wind, and also happens to line up perfectly with Mount Taranaki when looking down the bridge which makes for a magic photo especially at sunrise.
The bridge leads to the sacred land of the Te Ati Awa Iwi and Ngati Tawhirikura hapu whose descendants were killed and buried there during the Musket Wars.
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge does work both at sunrise and sunset golden hours for photography but if you'd like to have it quieter or to yourself definitely go for sunrise. Park in the nearby carpark and take your zoom lens with you for this location (70-200mm or similar) and position yourself back from the bridge so you can compress the mountain in the centre of the bridge.
Check out my Top 5 Beautiful Mount Taranaki Photo Locations Blog for more locations in the Taranaki region.
5. SUNRISE AT CASTLEPOINT LIGHTHOUSE AND BEACH WAIRARAPA
Castlepoint Lighthouse is an iconic landmark majestically standing along the rugged Wairarapa coast of New Zealand near the bottom of the North Island. It attracts many landscape photographers each year eager to capture one of this country's most beautiful lighthouses.
Featuring a breathtaking coastal landscape, rugged cliffs, and the iconic lighthouse towering against a dramatic coastal backdrop, Castlepoint provides limitless opportunities for capturing an extraordinary photograph for your New Zealand portfolio.
Constructed in 1913 and designed by engineer John Blackett, the Castlepoint Lighthouse octagonal tower stands tall, serving as a beacon for ships navigating the area. For decades, dedicated lighthouse keepers resided on site, but with the advancement of technology, the lighthouse underwent automation in 1988.
I have found that the best golden hour conditions for my images from Castlepoint were at sunrise. Head to the Castlepoint Lighthouse Walk and with the sun rising from the oceans horizon it creates beautiful light on the rugged coastal landscape and the lighthouse giving it the most beautiful colours. Take your wide angle lens with you to this spot.
Check out my Guide to Castlepoint Lighthouse for more
6. MOUNT STOKES SUNRISE MARLBOROUGH
Mt Stokes is an amazing trail that explores the unique landscape of Marlborough Sounds and has one of the best views in the entire Marlborough Region especially at sunrise. From the Queen Charlotte Drive turnoff at Linkwater, you can take Kenepuru Road and reach the start of the trail which leads to breathtaking views from Mt Stokes atop the 1,203m high mountain ridge.
With its rugged terrain, steep ascents, and a distance of approximately 11 kilometers, this challenging hike is not for the faint of heart. The track passes through mountain bush with a lot of tree roots, old river beds and is very steep in parts so a good level of fitness is required.
Once you're at the top the view of the Marlborough Sounds is absolutely breathtaking and worth all that effort to get there. I visited at sunrise to capture the golden light and was lucky enough to be above the early morning fog and clouds. This spot would also work at sunset. Take your wide angle and zoom lenses to have a range of options capturing the amazing views.
7. SUNRISE LAKE CAMP HAKATERE CONSERVATION RESERVE CANTERBURY
Lake Camp is a beautiful lake located in the Hakatere Conservation Park in the Canterbury Region of New Zealand. This location offers incredible views of Mount Potts, Mount Harper, Mount D'Archiac and the Southern Alps reflecting in the still waters of the lake at sunrise and is especially jaw dropping during the winter months when the mountains have snow.
Best photographed at sunrise, Lake Camp is a unique opportunity to capture rarely seen mountains due to its off the beaten path location. It is a great place to avoid the crowds and enjoy the natural surrounds without any human influence.
I would advise taking a 4wd during the winter time and also have chains handy as the snow can get quite deep in parts and the gravel road slippery.
There is freedom camping available at the lake if you have a self contained vehicle and your best photography location is right there at the camp site. Take your wide angle and zoom lenses with you to make the most of the scenery.
8. TASMAN LAKE SUNRISE AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Get ready for the most popular sunrise view of Mount Cook and incredible icebergs to go with it. Located just outside of Mount Cook Village on New Zealand's South Island, the Tasman Lake walk offers stunning views of the Tasman Glacier lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as close access to icebergs.
A 25 minute hike from the parking lot leads to the perfect spot to marvel at sunrise reflections off the lakes surface. A few minutes after beginning the track from the carpark, at the fork take the path to the right for the Tasman River. This will lead you to the rivers edge (after a bit of a scramble over some rocks) and the best view of the Tasman Lake.
Tasman Lake works best at sunrise for light and colour in the sky. To avoid the crowds start the day early by getting here and enjoying the peaceful surroundings on your own. You'll need to allow for at least 25 minutes to walk to Tasman Lake so take that into account when arriving for sunrise. Take your wide angle and zoom lens with you. During winter astro photography and milkyway captures are amazing in this dark sky area.
For more information check out my Complete Guide to Mount Cook Photo Spots.
9. SUNRISE AT NUGGET POINT LIGHTHOUSE THE CATLINS
Nugget Point Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in New Zealand, located on the breath taking Catlins coast and is perfect at sunrise. This iconic beacon of maritime history not only guides ships through treacherous waters but also serves as an enchanting subject for photography and capturing the rugged beauty of New Zealand's coastline.
The lighthouse, with its classic white structure, is framed by panoramic views of the turbulent seas below and the scattered rocky islets known as "the Nuggets." The changing moods of the ocean, from calm to tumultuous, provide a dynamic backdrop for photographers looking to freeze the ever shifting drama of nature.
From the carpark, take the well formed track out to the lighthouse (about 30 minutes). I would suggest taking your wide angle and a mid range zoom lens with you also. Most of my shots are taken from a side track which you will see to your right as you get to the bottom of the main track that leads out to the lighthouse. This track is very precarious and goes straight up and I would not advise taking it if you are afraid of heights.
10. ROYS PEAK WANAKA SUNRISE
The Roys Peak track in Wanaka is one of those locations in the South Island of New Zealand that everyone has heard of or knows about, and for very good reason. I can honestly say that the view from the Roys Peak hike in Wanaka is one of the best in New Zealand, if not THE best, and is incredible at sunrise.
From the Roys Peak track summit you can see the glacially carved mountains and valleys that have shaped and formed Lake Wanaka, you can see across the incredible Southern Alps and the always majestic Mount Aspiring, you can see the township of Wanaka and out to Hawea, it really is such a beautiful sight.
The Roys Peak Carpark which is around 6km outside of the Wanaka township along the Mount Aspiring Road is your starting point. A high level of fitness is required for this track as it is a steady incline the entire way and will take around 5-6 hours return via the same track. During the winter months the section above 1000m is challenging with snow so crampons are a must and a decent level of experience hiking in snow/avalanche terrain.
Roys Peak works at both sunrise and sunset, but your best bet with less people is to head up in the dark for sunrise. Take your wide angle lens and your zoom lens, and be sure to stop at the Selfie Point to get that famous selfie shot from the Roys Peak lookout.
Check out my Hiking the Roys Peak Track Wanaka Guide and Photos blog for all the info you need.
Thanks for taking to time to read my Top 10 Amazing New Zealand Sunrise Locations Guide. I hope it inspires you to come to New Zealand and explore some of these magical places at sunrise.
If you are interested in prints of any of the New Zealand Landscape Photography seen in this blog, please feel free to head on over to my New Zealand Photography Print Store and have a little look around.
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