Portfolio Archive | Page 4 of 8 | Jacqui Stokes Photography

Cape Reinga Sunset

Cape Reinga captures a stunning sunset at the iconic lighthouse perched on the rocky peninsula. The photo shows the dramatic meeting of two seas in the background, with warm sunset tones illuminating the lighthouse and rocks. Taken from the top of the path, the image highlights both the natural beauty and the unique geography of this New Zealand landmark.

The Cape Reinga Lighthouse, built in 1941, sits at the northern tip of the North Island and guides ships safely through the treacherous waters where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. The surrounding peninsula is steeped in Māori cultural significance, known as the departure point for spirits leaving the earth. Its rugged cliffs, windswept landscapes, and panoramic views make it one of New Zealand’s most photographed coastal locations.

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum is a close-up macro photograph of a white chrysanthemum with bright green petal tips. The flower’s centre sits on the lower left third of the frame, facing diagonally up to the right, with only part of the petals captured in the image. The dark blue background provides a striking contrast, highlighting the delicate textures and colours of the petals.

Crashing Wave

Crashing Wave captures a sunlit ocean wave smashing against a large rock, with frothy sea foam in the foreground. Most of the wave is sharply detailed, while subtle motion remains in some areas, giving a dynamic and natural feeling to the scene.

Long-exposure photo of a small stream with textured, flowing water creating a soft, painterly effect.

Flowing Stream

This long-exposure of the fast flowing stream captures the quiet movement of water as it sweeps over the rocks, smoothing into soft shapes while still holding a beautiful ripple texture. The slight motion blur gives the scene a painterly feel, turning a simple stream into something calm and atmospheric.

New Zealand Tūī (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae) having a bath with water spray around the bird

Tui Bath Time

The Tūī (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae) is one of New Zealand’s most iconic birds, known for its glossy plumage and melodic calls. In this bathing scene, it shakes its feathers on the side of the bath, sending droplets flying around, capturing the fun and energy of our native forest birds.

New Zealand Bellbird Korimako (Anthornis melanura) with wet ruffled feathers perched in a tree

New Zealand Bellbird after a bath

The Bellbird — Korimako (Anthornis melanura) — has just enjoyed a refreshing bath and now perches in the tree with its feathers all ruffled and glistening. This playful little moment captures the charm and personality of one of New Zealand’s most delightful forest birds.

New Zealand Bellbird, Korimako

The New Zealand Bellbird — Korimako (Anthornis melanura) — is a melodic songbird native to New Zealand. This individual perches quietly in the trees, its olive-green plumage blending with the foliage while its sweet song fills the bush. A lovely example of the charm and character of New Zealand’s forest birds.

Pied Stilt (Himantopus leucocephalus) wading in shallow water feeding in late afternoon, New Zealand bird photography

Pied Stilt, Poaka

The Pied Stilt, Poaka, (Himantopus leucocephalus), with its delicate long legs and black-and-white plumage, is a familiar sight along New Zealand’s waterways. This chick wades gently through the shallow water, pecking for food in the golden light of late afternoon — a tender glimpse into the daily life of our native shorebirds.

Fluffy Pied Stilt Chick (Himantopus leucocephalus) wading in shallow water feeding in late afternoon, New Zealand bird photography

Pied Stilt Chick, Poaka

The Pied Stilt chick (Himantopus leucocephalus), Poaka, is fluffy with a soft grey-brown back, perfectly camouflaged along the water’s edge. In this late afternoon scene, it carefully wades and feeds in shallow water, showing the delicate charm of New Zealand’s native shorebirds.