Larryn Rae is a landscape and astro-photographer based in Wānaka. He’s especially well known for his distinct nightscape images. 

“Most of my personal adventures involve New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, with a strong emphasis on nightscapes, particularly in alpine settings above the tree line,” he says. 

Tent

I rely on the Bushbuck Horizon 8000. It’s lightweight (2kg), durable, waterproof, and has consistently withstood challenging conditions.

Footwear

I opt for robust boots: LA Sportiva Trango GTX for summer and Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro for winter.

Stove

I use the MSR Windburner. It’s lightweight, efficient and ideal for my trips.

Pack

My choice is the Osprey Aether Plus 85L. It accommodates multiple camera setups and camping equipment, as I prioritise warmth, safety and comfort in the treacherous alpine environment.

Clothes

Balancing warmth and weight is crucial due to the hefty camera gear I carry. Base layers include Macpac polyester and Icebreaker merino, a Macpac fleece mid-layer, and a robust down outer layer from Outdoor Research or Montane. Heated socks, multi-layered gloves and headwear shield me from severe cold.

Sleeping gear

The Bushbuck Cumulus mat weighs 660g and boasts an R-value of 5, ensuring warmth even on snow and ice. The Macpac Serac (1400g) sleeping bag is my staple. With a -100C comfort rating and 800 loft, it guarantees the warmth I crave after chilly shooting sessions.

Camera and lenses
Most of my weight comes from my camera gear. I often carry two complete camera setups, including: Canon R5 H-alpha mirrorless and a Canon 6D H-alpha DSLR. I have four lenses, two carbon fibre tripods, accessories, and the Sky Watcher Star Adventurer 2i tracking mount.

Hiking poles

Black Diamond aluminium poles are both durable and reliable.

Alpine gear

Essential for snowy and icy terrains, I always have Petzl Vasak 12-point crampons, a Petzl helmet and a Climbing Technology ice axe.

Essentials

Always on me are a PLB, head torch, power bank, tape and spare batteries.