I have two passions in my retirement – hiking and photography. The Active New Zealand “Manuka†tour completely met my expectations and desires with regards to both of these passions. I wanted a tour with lots of hiking but also with enough of time along the way to stop and enjoy AND photograph the scenery properly. The day-to-day schedule and the time allotted during hikes offered a good balance between seeing as much as we could see but still having time to stop and take photographs. During the hikes it pretty much needs to be hand-held shots as there simply won't be time for tripod usage. However, be sure to bring your tripod because your time around the 'magic hours' is usually your own and you will likely experience some amazing sunrises and sunsets. For many years I have told friends that I wanted to do the Milford Track one day, but when it came down to it, I opted for the Hollyford Track instead, hoping for greater and more interesting photo opportunities. I'm very happy to report that, in all respects, the Hollyford Track Option was awesome. Photographically, I consider Hollyford Track Day 2 to be my favorite of the trip. Lake Alabaster at sunrise simply must not missed! I am very much looking forward to my next Active New Zealand trip, hopefully to photograph the North Island this time. Here is a link to the NZ photographs on my web site: http://photosbyetemerson.net/ Eric Emerson

| January 1970