Auckland Photographer of the Year 2025 – Gerard Emery

I’m thrilled and humbled to be named Auckland Photographer of the Year 2025 by NZIPP. For me, photography has always been about exploring the landscapes around us and capturing the beauty that often goes unnoticed.

Over the past year, I’ve focused on landscapes — the coastlines, hills, and hidden corners of New Zealand that offer endless inspiration. My images aim to highlight light, texture, and the small, often overlooked details that make each scene unique. Sometimes these landscapes reveal slightly abstract patterns or compositions, but the heart of my work is always the natural world around us.

Winning this award is a reminder that taking the time to really look, explore, and experiment pays off. It’s also incredibly rewarding to be recognised by other photographers who share a love of New Zealand’s scenery and the craft of photography.

I hope my work encourages people to slow down and see the world differently — whether it’s a sweeping vista, a quiet forest, or the way light falls across a familiar landscape. Every place has its story, and photography is my way of sharing it.

Thank you to NZIPP and to everyone who supports my work. This award motivates me to keep exploring, capturing, and sharing the landscapes of New Zealand with fresh eyes.