Fall Under Autumn’s Spell

Kahuru (Autumn) has arrived — and many say it’s their favourite season of the year.

The days are getting shorter, Te Rā (the Sun) travels further north across the sky, and its rays bathe the landscape in a softer, more golden light than the harsh overhead brightness of summer.

The air is crisp in the mornings, with frosts beginning to form, yet by mid-morning, temperatures often soar. Come afternoon, you’ll wonder why you wore a warm jersey at all.

But don’t get too complacent — one of the most spectacular golden hours of the year is just around the corner.

Speaking of golden, one of Autumn’s greatest features is the leaves on our deciduous trees. They transform from vibrant green to succulent oranges and rich yellows, creating an incredible natural backdrop.

We recently saw an article asking people to name their favourite Autumn destinations — excluding Queenstown and Arrowtown. There’s a reason for that: the Southern Lakes region is the peak of autumnal beauty. As the early settlers arrived here, many brought deciduous trees, unknowingly planting the seeds of a future seasonal spectacle.

Wandering the streets, riverside trails, and lake edges, you’ll find yourself walking on a golden carpet of fallen leaves. Biologically, these leaves nourish the soil and surrounding trees, but for now, they gift us breathtaking scenery.

The summer crowds have thinned, yet Queenstown and Arrowtown remain vibrant. It’s easier than ever to find peaceful, awe-inspiring spots. Having lived here for decades, and spent countless days exploring with our cameras, we know not just the iconic vistas you’re dreaming of, but many hidden corners too.

Then there’s the light. On our Starry Night Adventures, we explain how Te Rā shifts across the heavens throughout the year. During the day, we see firsthand how the sun’s lower angle softens the atmosphere and light, offering beautifully flattering conditions — especially in early mornings and late afternoons.

Add a few autumn clouds to the mix, and you have perfect, gentle lighting. If you’re standing in the right place at the right time, you might even be lucky enough to spot a Uenuku (rainbow) arching across the sky.

Our AuthenticAs Adventures blend private guided touring with professional photography — something truly different. Gone is the awkwardness of following a photographer in a rental car, or sharing a minivan with strangers. Instead, you travel together with us, your personal guide, driver, and photographer.

This connection changes everything. As we travel, we learn about you — your interests, your family, your dreams for your time here — and we shape the day as we go. This relaxed, comfortable approach means when it's time for your family photographs in Queenstown or Arrowtown, you’ll feel natural and confident. Time and again, our manuhiri (guests) tell us how much this made their adventure special, and we are incredibly proud to create these genuine connections between takata (people) and te taiao (the environment).

Of course, it’s also worth mentioning: there are more rainbows around at this time of year. But if you’re not outside looking for them, you’ll never see them…

All of our tours are private — just you and those you choose to bring. This allows us to tailor every detail around you.  We’re photographers first, with an eye for light, detail, and moments,  and that philosophy shapes everything we do.

We’re proud to be a Qualmark Silver tourism operator, recognised for our commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability. You can trust that you’re in expert hands.

We’d love to invite you to create your own magical family memories this autumn in the Southern Lakes. Our AuthenticAs Queenstown Adventure and To the Top and Back Tour are two of our most popular daytime experiences. Or, for the ultimate journey, combine a daytime adventure with a Starry Night Adventure for an unforgettable day into night experience.

If you have specific locations or ideas in mind, simply emailus@authenticAs.org to start the conversation.

We can't wait to meet you — and to show you the extraordinary place we are lucky enough to call home.