Rotorua in New Zealand is known for its rich geothermal activity. The area is scattered geysers, natural hot springs and pools of bubbling mud. Among these areas of volcanic activity there is a surprising amount of vibrant green life that has found a way to adapt to the extreme conditions.
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By far my favourite road that I have ever driven is the road to Milford Sound in New Zealand. Through glacial-cut valleys and surrounded by towering mountains, the views are absolutely breathtaking.
Almost my whole life I've lived next to an ocean or sea of some description. Coastlines and its inhabitants are one of my favourite subjects to photograph. Especially in New Zealand where you can still find plenty of wild and beautiful locations.
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The beauty of going out to see cetaceans in the Azores is that you never know what you are going to see. There is such a huge array of species you can can come across, and the different behaviours and changing weather makes each encounter unique. Nothing beats seeing them in calm waters.
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The Azores islands are well known for their lush green blanket of vegetation. Many of the viewpoints over the island can best be described as picture perfect and just like a postcard. At least when you are lucky enough to have clear skies over the highest peaks.
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The north coast of São Miguel Island attracts more sperm whales than the south. Off the north, these whales are often in mass gatherings of dozens of individuals. The best part is that the north coast has not been as "touched" by tourism like the south coast has. Over the years, my most most incredible moments with sperm whales have all been off the north coast.
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Two delightful bird species that can be seen in the Azores - the European robin with its bright orange breast, and the inquisitive chaffinch that will often approach close to people.
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Off the Azores islands, a variety of marine mammals can be seen. Particularly in the spring, which is the time that the largest number of species can be seen. Following is a small selection of this marine mammal mix, starting with a very rare visitor to the region:
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Now here's a species you don't see every day. In fact most people have never heard of them. They are false killer whales, and just like killer whales, or orca, they actually belong to the dolphin family. These sleek animals always make me think of black bullets shooting out of the water.
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I love the soft and colours of the light in the winter. Especially the glowing pastels at the end of the day as the sun is low in the sky in the late afternoon.
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One of the most amazing displays in nature - large oceanic bottlenose dolphins leaping several metres into the air. These acrobatic synchronised leaps and are performed in relation to courtship behaviour. What a treat to see these big males showing off!
