Almost 70 finalists were chosen from 6,000 entries for New Zealand’s largest photographic competition, with works reflecting the country’s natural environment, wildlife, culture, history and traditions. Photojournalist Mike Scott took first place for his aerial shot of an island of green trees in the middle of a landscape scorched by bushfires, with judges praising his patience and craft
New Zealand Geographic photographer of the year competition 2026 – in pictures
