What a welcome back to 2026, in the funny old times we live in!!

Last night’s promise of an auroral display started out a bit quiet, but ramped up pretty quickly to be quite a beast. Incoming space weather data suggested something big ‘could’ happen. But cloud cover and terrestrial weather being what it was, it seemed all a bit ‘meh’.

Nevertheless fairly late in afternoon, I thought ‘Oh well, no harm checking’. It turns out that last nights’ aurora was probably bigger than any solar storm I’ve witnessed here in Canterbury.
Bigger than the last couple of epic events that signalled what we thought was the peak of the current solar cycle. (Sun activity revolves on a 11yr cycle – which we are on the slight downward curve currently of the maximum expected).

Certainly this was one of the few times where large curtains of light filled the width and height of the sky at times, that you could really SEE. (Human vision at night can’t replicate the natural colour and accuity able to be captured in camera with longer exposures. That is why photos always look so bright and quite rich). Yet this was actually a visual feast, comparable to displays you might commonly witness in Iceland, Nordic countries, Canada etc…

So having curated some potential spots in advance, I took off without much expectation. Commonly with big displays like this, there are droves of cars, with a plethora of headlights and torches (not exactly conducive to dark sky photography!!). But there was hardly a soul. It seems the expectation of cloud kept many away. Or maybe the storm onset went under the radar. I can’t be too sure. It worked out perfectly for photos, and was the latest nights I have had out in years – till 4.30am!!!

Please enjoy some of nature’s glory. As we head into the spring equinox in coming months there could well be ongoing activity.

Ummm, what to do, what to do…..!!

The solar storm stats were brewing yesterday afternoon, far beyond anything I have seen, perhaps ever. After last May’s epic storm, I wasn’t sure we would see much better. Especially seeing this solar cycle has been a bit lack lustre in terms of regular displays (in my opinion). Yet, with THREE coronal mass ejections inbound to earth, this was a wee reminder that the dipping peak of Solar Cycle 25, can still deliver.

BUT… and a BIG BUT… was, will terrestrial weather be in our favour?!
Murphy Law’s was well at play with almost certain cloud cover over most of NZ, with only a few fleeting gaps. Fortunately, with a bit of advance planning, modern weather models online, a bit of good luck, and a narrow window of opportunity, I had just a spot in mind. After quick message to the farmer, I set off to I try my luck!

So despite huge cloud cover most of the night, I managed to get some of the display. Most of the time was just a dark bank of cloud, with the odd glowing spot peaking through. After initially packing up, and in the car ready to leave, I decided to try one more set up (after noting there may be another short burst inbound, coming in past the relevant satellites, combined with a clearing patch of sky moving overhead).

These levels were only a fraction of what they were earlier in the day. I can only imagine if we didnt have such heavy cloud cover, and if the earlier levels held, this may almost have been a once in a lifetime event.

The two big bulls behind me all night though didnt care much!

2250hrs NZDT 12 Nov ’25.
Springston, Canterbury.
(Shot on private land, with permission).

Why Choose a NZIPP Accredited Photographer?

In today’s world, everyone has a camera in their pocket – but not everyone is a professional photographer. Whether you’re booking someone to capture your wedding, take family portraits, or create compelling brand imagery, the difference between a good photo and a truly great one often comes down to the photographer’s experience, training, and professionalism.

That’s where NZIPP Accredited Professional Photographers stand out.

Note, this is different to someone who is a ‘member’ of NZIPP. Not all members are accredited, but all accredited photographers are members!

What is NZIPP?

NZIPP stands for the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography—the country’s leading organization for professional photographers. With a history spanning over 80 years, NZIPP sets the gold standard for photography in New Zealand, ensuring that its members deliver quality, professionalism, and peace of mind for clients like you.

What Does ‘NZIPP Accredited Photographer’ Mean?

An NZIPP Accredited Professional Photographer isn’t just someone who takes good photos. They’ve gone through a rigorous acceptance process to prove:

• Technical excellence in their craft

• Ethical business practices

• Commitment to Continuing Education and professional development

In other words, accreditation means we take your investment seriously, and have the skills and experience to back it up.

The Client Benefits of Hiring an NZIPP Accredited Photographer

1. You’re in Trusted Hands

NZIPP Accredited Photographers agree to follow a strict Code of Ethics, to operate with professionalism, honesty, and respect. You can expect clear communication and fair pricing. In the event there may be a dispute, the national NZIPP body will oversee a compliant to ensure a fair resolve for all parties.

2. Professional Standards, Real-World Results

NZIPP accreditation is not a participation badge – it’s earned through peer review by industry experts. That means your photographer has to prove their ability to deliver consistent, high-level work across different situations and clients. Senior industry peers will review the likes of lighting, composition, editing, posing, storytelling… to see how that photographer operates. The ultimate aim is for clients to know they are hiring someone who is consistent in their approach, and  capable of providing stunning images that truly reflect your moment, brand, or story.

3. Ongoing Education Means They Stay Ahead

NZIPP members are committed to learning and growing. They attend workshops, conferences, and mentoring programs to stay on top of the latest techniques, technology, and trend. This is so you can benefit from their up-to-date expertise.

4. National Recognition = Peace of Mind

Many accredited photographers also enter (and win!) NZIPP’s Iris Awards, New Zealand’s top professional photography competition. These accolades are more than trophies – they’re proof of artistic excellence and technical mastery. Regardless of the various distinctions or categories, any photographer who is willing to push themselves creatively, is trying hard to be the best they can be. Putting yourself out there into such prestigious awards, is also a valuable litmus test. Not only to test and embrace photographic trends, but also to gauge one’s skill against other leading creatives nationally / international.

Final Thought – Invest in a Photographer Who’s Invested in You

Your memories, moments, and milestones deserve more than a quick snapshot. They deserve to be captured with care, creativity, and professionalism. By choosing an NZIPP Accredited Photographer, you’re choosing peace of mind, lasting quality, and someone who truly cares about doing the job right.

When quality matters, trust the professionals who are backed by New Zealand’s most respected photographic body.