Autumn Adventures Down Under
- liquidamber9
- Jul 22, 2025
- 3 min read
There are few moments in travel that make you stop, breathe, and silently thank the universe. For me, sailing past the Sydney Opera House at sunset aboard a ferry from Manly Beach was one of them.
After a full day both running a half marathon in the quest to complete one on each continent, and photographing the coastal charm of Manly—its sandstone cliffs, barefoot surfers, and bustling weekend markets—I hopped on the ferry back toward Circular Quay. I had timed the trip to catch golden hour, and Sydney did not disappoint.
As the ferry cut across the harbor, the sun dipped low behind the skyline, casting warm light across the waves. The Opera House—iconic and elegant—came closer minute by minute.
But that was just the beginning of a month-long journey that carried me across the coasts, peaks, and deserts of Australia and New Zealand, camera in hand.
Sydney, Australia
My journey began with a delayed arrival that cost me some time in the city, but I made the most of every minute I had. A photo walk through the Central Business District with a local photographer friend recharged my creative energy. We explored street scenes, Saturday markets, and harbor views. Next on the list was a ferry over to Manly Beach and a ferry back at sunset.
Queenstown & Wanaka, New Zealand
Flying into Queenstown was riveting. Towering peaks and reflective lakes welcomed me. I prepped a simple meal in my apartment and wandered lakeside trails before waking early to chase sunrise at #ThatWanakaTree.
The next day brought a long but awe-inspiring drive to Milford Sound in the rain. Thousands of waterfalls cascaded from cliffs and the moody skies made the cruise damp but gave jaw-dropping views around each bend.
Back in Queenstown, I was able to see native kiwis at the Kiwi Park (nocturnal = no flash or cameras allowed!) and made a cinematic side trip to Glenorchy in search of Middle-earth vistas.
Blenheim, New Zealand
From the peaks to the vines—next stop, the Marlborough wine region. I ran my second half marathon of the trip here, winding through rows of grapevines - home to some of the most amazing Sauvignon Blanc in the world, including Oyster Bay, Kim Crawford and the host Saint Claire's vineyards. This race earned me continent number five!
Christchurch
A short layover let me stretch my legs and enjoy the cultural riverfront of Christchurch. Dumplings at a local favorite rounded out a relaxed evening.
Cairns & The Great Barrier Reef
Back in Australia, I landed in tropical Cairns. Two days on the reef delivered every snorkeling dream: reef sharks, coral fans, Sand Rays and endless fish on an Indigenous-guided tours with storytelling, music, and reef science combined. The highlight was a mesmerizing flow of flying foxes overhead at dusk, coming home to the coastal fig trees.
Uluru & Kata Tjuta (Ayers Rock)
The red center was my grand finale. The landscapes here felt sacred. I spent sunrise and sunset photographing Uluru’s shifting colors, joined an astronomy tour beneath the Milky Way, and even rode a camel named Whiskey at dawn.
My time in the Outback reminded me to slow down. The Indigenous stories of stars, the quiet strength of the rock formations, and the community's respectful cultural protocols all left a mark on me.
Final Thoughts
Travel, for me, is about capturing moments that evoke emotion—whether it's joy, stillness, wonder, or awe. This trip gave me all of that and more. From finishing two half marathons to witnessing sacred stories in the stars, I return home grateful, inspired, and ready to share the journey through my lens.
Stay tuned for my upcoming gallery release featuring selected works from this trip.
Comments