Tama Lakes campsite. Photo: Isaac Rietveld

The 2026 Wilderness Outdoor Photographer of the Year winners

Features, Photo competition

View more by author

Alistair Hall

Alistair is the editor and publisher of Wilderness. His favourite tramping ground is Tongariro National Park.

By Alistair Hall

View more by author

Mark Watson

Mark is <em>Wilderness</em>’s gear editor and a dedicated storyteller, documenting his adventures in both words and photos.

Written by Alistair Hall with guest author Mark Watson

After whittling down the entries to a shortlist of standouts, the judges have chosen a clear winner.

From inclement weather to encounters with endangered wildlife, the most compelling images capture what makes tramping in Aotearoa New Zealand unique. Thanks to all who entered, and our continued thanks to sponsor Panasonic New Zealand for supplying the amazing Lumix camera prizes.

Here’s a selection of finalists

Out There and Third Place Winner: Jacek Pakulski

Milford Track Storm. **Photo: Jacek Pakulski**

Judges comments

Alistair Hall: There’s drama aplenty in this photo, which is why I was drawn to it. We’ve no doubt all been in similar foul weather and can appreciate the struggle! It really is ‘out there’.

Mark Watson: Muted tones and a bold diagonal structure emphasise the mood and moment of this photo. The track leads our eye through airborne snow to a figure whose outstretched arm and apparent tension convey the effort of tramping in bad weather.

Jacek receives a Lumix DC-TZ99 camera valued at $849!

Wildlife and Second Pace Winner: Glenda Rees

Judges comments

Alistair Hall:The kakaruai South Island robin is usually photographed on the ground near a tramper’s boot, so Glenda’s image instantly stood out for showing the bird in a different setting. Framing, composition and pin-sharp focus combine to make this a winning image.

Mark Watson: Glenda’s whimsical image captures a comic moment with expertise and vision, framing an irresistibly cute subject within playful textures and a tone that compliments rather than distracts.

Glenda is the second-place winner and receives a Lumix DC-G100DK camera valued at $1349.

2026 Wilderness Outdoor Photographer of the Year and Huts and Camping winner: Isaac Rietveld

Tama Lakes campsite. **Photo: Isaac Rietveld**

Judges’ comments

Alistair Hall: Isaac’s image transports me to a beautiful spot in my favourite park – who wouldn’t want to overnight here? It’s a clear winner, and Isaac’s other entries show the honour is deserved.

Mark Watson: Shot in the serene tones of blue-hour light, Isaac’s clean, balanced composition featuring a cosy tent amid a starkly beautiful mountain environment skilfully captures an aspirational moment in the outdoors.