Water takes a tortuous pathway on its journey across Aotearoa, eroding the landscape to create the architecture of our land. Falling in the mountainous regions, snow compacts over time forming glaciers which melt to create alpine lakes and rivers. Rain on both sides of Te Waka O Aoraki forms lakes and rivers to join their alpine neighbours, nourishing life on its passage to the ocean. The warmth of the rising sun preserves balance in this natural resource journeying back to the mountains to begin the cycle again.
1. Foreboding clouds above the Alps signal the beginning of water's journey.
2. The advancing storm brings waves of rain and snow, shadowing layers of mountainous beauty.
3. The clearing rain rewards us with a golden moment of colour.
4. A snowcapped Aoraki Mount Cook towers above his brothers and the Tasman Valley below.
5. Murchison Lake reflects its radiant glacial colours contrasting the surrounding landscape.
6. As the melt begins mountain Tarns pocket colourful moments.
7. The Hooker Lake gently ushers icebergs to shore.
8. Torrents roar under the watchful eye of Aoraki Mount Cook as he rests from the day past.
9. Braids of tears flow down the Tasman Valley to the shores of Lake Pukaki.
10. Lake Pukaki marks the gateway to the barren Mackenzie basin.
11. Man’s persistent need to interfere with the architecture of nature.
12. Reeds gently sway and quench their thirst under a softening sky.
13. Trees walk from Lake Brunner to create their unique forest habitat.
14. Ground ferns constrain water’s escape.
15. Saturated moss hangs in the balance feeding off its host.
16. Mushrooms grow precariously but glisten in delight from the refreshing rain.
17. Rock crevices release water as it bursts from the mountainside.
18. White water rushes to join the Hokitika Gorge.
19. The Hokitika Gorge in a reflective mood in glorious colour.
20. The Waiau River threads its way across the valley under a fiery sky.
21. Early morning sun welcomes water from the mountains as it hunts the Rangitata River.
22. The headwaters of the Rangitata River funnel streams in the shadow of the Hakatere Range
23. In sight of the Pacific Ocean water's voyage is almost complete.
24. Journey’s end as water ebbs and flows, nestling amongst its new neighbours.