Results – Kiwiana – 25.13 – Whangarei Camera Club

Judge – Jan Maree Vodanovich
As both a long-time creative and someone deeply connected to the landscapes, culture, and visual
rhythms of Aotearoa, it was an honour to judge the Kiwiana set for the Whangārei Camera Club.
My journey in photography has spanned decades — from early darkroom work to digital creativity
— and is now enriched by my parallel life as an artist and storyteller based in Mangawhai. I seek
out narrative, emotion, balance, and a sense of place in images, and I looked for those same
qualities in this set.
Judging Criteria
In assessing the entries, I considered both technical and expressive elements. Some of the key
criteria included:
● Relevance to the Theme: How well did the image evoke or interpret ‘Kiwiana’? Was it
iconic, nostalgic, humorous, or uniquely New Zealand?
● Composition and Visual Impact: Did the image have balance, focus, and clarity? Was the
viewer’s eye drawn with purpose?
● Originality and Storytelling: Did it tell a story or surprise us with a fresh take on
something familiar?
● Technical Quality: Exposure, sharpness, colour control, and post-processing all played a
part, though not at the expense of meaning.
For my process, I found it easier to assign a score and translate this into your requested scale:
I have left the scores inmy comments:
● 50–59: Non-Accepted
● 60–69: Accepted
● 70–79: Merit
● 80–89: Highly Commended
● 90–100: Honours
My Final Thoughts
This was a strong, often joyful collection of work. It was wonderful to see such a range of ideas —
from playful still life setups and documentary captures to rich cultural references and nostalgic
compositions. The humour, heart, and deep sense of place woven through these images are what
make Kiwiana so powerful as a theme.
Thank you all for sharing your creativity. Whether your image earned top marks or sits in a
category with room to grow, each submission added to the richness of this visual kōrero. I
encourage you to keep shooting, experimenting, and sharing. Kiwiana lives in the details — and so
does good photography.
Ngā mihi nui,
Jan Maree Vodanovich
Photographer | Artist | Storyteller

: 1. Title: “As Kiwi as a Rock Pile” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 76 – Merit This image captures a uniquely Kiwi expression of balance, nature, and quiet human interaction with the land. The carefully stacked rocks on weathered driftwood suggest themes of mindfulness and connection to place — ideas that resonate strongly with the spirit of Kiwiana when viewed through a cultural and environmental lens. Technically, the image is solid. The textures in the stones and wood are beautifully rendered, with crisp focus and a depth of field that nicely separates the subject from the lush green background. The diagonals in the driftwood create a pleasing composition and lead the eye well through the frame. To elevate this further, I would look for a touch more storytelling or emotional impact — perhaps an element that surprises, evokes nostalgia, or introduces subtle tension or light play. The image feels more observational than interpretive, which holds it just shy of the next level. This is a thoughtful, well-crafted image that communicates a quiet slice of Kiwi culture.

: 2. Title: “Rock Pile at Fantail Falls” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 68 – Accepted This image offers a pleasing study of natural balance and structure. The central rock stack is artfully composed, with a wonderful sense of tension and gravity-defiance — it immediately draws the eye. There’s a nice sculptural quality here that leans into the theme of Kiwiana by evoking our relationship with the outdoors, ingenuity, and quiet acts of creativity found in remote corners of Aotearoa. Technically, the exposure is well controlled, especially considering the reflective surfaces of the stones, shadows and the contrasting textures. Focus is sharp and the subject is differentiated from the background. The overall feel is clean and intentional. Where the image falls slightly short of a higher score is in its framing and storytelling. The tight vertical composition isolates the rock pile nicely, but the background feels visually busy and competes with the subject. A shallower depth of field or a slightly shifted angle might have simplified the scene and enhanced the emotional impact. It is a thoughtfully executed image with a strong subject and cultural relevance, and has potential for more through compositional refinement.

: 3. Title: “Heritage” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 72 – Merit This is a thoughtful still life composition that brings together a collection of iconic and symbolic Kiwiana objects — a carved tiki, pounamu, woven kete, ceramic heart, and tiny kiwi figures — each contributing to a visual narrative of identity, heritage, and affection for New Zealand’s cultural roots. The inclusion of both Māori and Pākehā motifs speaks to the blend of tradition and everyday life that defines Kiwiana in its broadest sense. The lighting is soft and even, allowing each object to be clearly seen with minimal distraction. There is attention to balance across the frame, and the tidy arrangement lends a sense of care and reverence to the display. I particularly liked the cheeky touch of the green gecko — a playful nod to the whimsical side of Kiwiana. Where the image could be strengthened is in its creative execution. As a still life, it sits safely within the genre, but doesn’t quite elevate into something unexpected or emotionally resonant. The subdued lighting does not enhance the image. A different angle, more dynamic lighting, or shallower depth of field could have added drama or intimacy to the scene. Overall, a sincere and well-considered interpretation of the theme that honours our visual culture.

: 5. Title: “Gumboots, They Are Wonderful” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 68 – Accepted This image taps into a delightfully quirky slice of Kiwiana — the iconic Taihape gumboot sculpture. There’s a sense of humour and place here that reflects a strong understanding of the theme. For many New Zealanders, gumboots represent rural life, practicality, and small-town charm, and this image captures that with a cheerful sense of pride. The composition is tidy, with the sculpture balancing the “TAIHAPE” sign in a way that anchors the image nicely. The blurred background and foreground helps to isolate the subject from the busyness of the surrounding environment. However, with both foreground and background falling out of focus, it becomes slightly disorienting — it’s difficult for the eye and brain to make sense of what’s being seen, and that can feel uncomfortable. That said, the image could be elevated further with a more dynamic angle or creative perspective — currently it feels more documentary than interpretive. Still, this is a fun and recognisable contribution to the theme. A solid effort that could become a Merit-level image with a bit more creative risk or storytelling flair.

: 6. Title: “Party Plate” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 75 – Merit This image offers a cheerful and quintessentially Kiwi snapshot — L&P and Pineapple Lumps, side by side like old mates at a backyard barbecue. It’s instantly recognisable, full of character, and firmly rooted in the heart of the Kiwiana theme. The subject choice is excellent — nostalgic, fun, and full of national flavour (literally and culturally!). Technically, there are some really strong choices here. The bokeh background adds a festive and inviting feel, helping to lift the mood and give the image a sense of occasion. The soft lighting is a little dull but works nicely with the reflective surfaces of the plastic and glass, avoiding any harsh glare. The use of a paper plate also adds a touch of casual authenticity. There are a few areas where the image could be pushed further. The bottle label is slightly out of focus, which draws attention because it’s such a strong visual anchor. A tighter composition or change of depth of field might have created more intimacy and control. Overall, this is a lively and well-conceived interpretation of the theme with a great Kiwi sense of humour.

: 7. Title: “Air New Zealand” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 67 – Accepted This image captures a classic and instantly recognisable view: the Air New Zealand winglet soaring above a vast sea of clouds, with the land far below basking in soft afternoon light. The koru logo is iconic, representing national identity, travel, and the pride many New Zealanders feel in their national carrier — making it a valid and thoughtful inclusion under the Kiwiana theme. The colour palette is beautiful, with the rich blues of the sky transitioning softly into the textured cloudscape. The composition is clean and balanced, with the wing acting as a strong leading line, guiding the eye across the image. While thematically relevant, the image is grainy and lacks detail. It feels more like a well-timed travel photo than an interpretive or creatively composed piece. The challenge here is lifting the moment beyond the ordinary — perhaps by enhancing light and shadow for drama, or introducing another element (reflection, silhouette, or juxtaposition) to add narrative. This is a calm and confident entry, well-executed and clear in intent. It shows potential with further exploration of story and artistry.

: 8. Title: “Cape Reinga Signpost” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 74 – Merit This image features one of Aotearoa’s most iconic landmarks — the Cape Reinga signpost — standing tall against a rich blue sky and endless ocean horizon. It’s a powerful symbol of distance, direction, and identity, and a perfect fit for the Kiwiana theme. The clean framing and bright primary colours give this image immediate visual impact. Technically, the image is well executed. The sharpness is crisp, and the exposure is spot on — the yellow signs pop beautifully against the deep blues, and the ocean adds a sense of place without distraction. The choice to shoot slightly from below adds presence to the signpost, giving it weight and purpose. To take this image to the next level, consider exploring ways to introduce story or mood. Cape Reinga is a site rich in cultural and spiritual significance — incorporating elements like weather, time of day, or even people could have shifted this from a record shot to something more evocative or emotional. Still, this is a strong and confident image that embraces a well-loved Kiwi landmark with clarity and respect.

: 9. Title: “Footrot Dog” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 80 – Highly Commended This image is a delightful nod to a truly iconic part of New Zealand’s cultural landscape — Murray Ball’s Footrot Flats. The use of the plush Dog, paired with two classic comic strips in the background, delivers a sense of playful nostalgia that immediately connects with Kiwi viewers of all ages. The subject is well chosen and clearly relevant to the Kiwiana theme. The plush toy is positioned to feel almost animated, with its expression and posture bringing a sense of character and familiarity. The cartoon panels behind add a layer of context and humour, grounding the image in its source material. Technically, the image is clean and well exposed. The soft lighting works well with the texture of the toy and keeps the white background from becoming too stark. One area for improvement would be the clarity and presentation of the comic panels — they’re a great storytelling tool, but are slightly washed out and could benefit from better alignment or contrast to read more easily. Overall, this image is a fun and affectionate tribute to a beloved New Zealand classic. It brings a smile and serves the theme well — with just a little more polish and narrative layering, it could easily push toward a higher award.

: 10. Title: “Ping the Kiwi” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 90 – Honours This is a heartwarming and intimate portrait of Aotearoa’s most beloved national icon. “Ping the Kiwi” captures a rare moment — a close interaction between human and kiwi — and does so with both sensitivity and skill. The contrast between the fluorescent high-vis jacket and the soft, feathery texture of the bird is visually striking and symbolic, hinting at the intersection of conservation work and precious wildlife. The subject fills the frame beautifully, and the gentle expression on the kiwi’s face — whether sleepy or simply calm — draws the viewer in with emotion and curiosity. The photographer has achieved excellent sharpness on the bird’s face and beak, and the soft fall-off into the blurred background keeps our focus exactly where it should be. The slightly distracting background figures, particularly the dark shapes and partial human forms that compete subtly with the subject. A touch more background separation or post-processing to soften those distractions could have elevated the image. Nevertheless, this is a beautifully observed and compelling portrait, rich in both Kiwiana meaning and photographic merit.

: 11. Title: “Back to Back” Photographer Level: Novice Score: 70 – Merit This image presents a thoughtful and symbolic view of Māori carving, beautifully capturing both the physical form and its mirrored reflection in glass. The choice of subject shows strong cultural awareness and connects meaningfully with the Kiwiana theme, especially through the emphasis on tradition, identity, and craftsmanship. The composition is visually intriguing — the reflection adds a layer of duality and introspection that elevates it beyond a simple documentation. The background of modern architectural lines contrasts nicely with the organic, weathered carving, suggesting a dialogue between past and present. Where this image could improve is primarily in technical execution. The lighting is quite flat and the reflection lacks clarity, making it slightly hard to distinguish detail. A slight shift in angle or a different time of day might have introduced more light contrast or mood. The photo is well exposed overall, but a stronger focal point or post-processing could give it greater punch. When using leading architectural elements, it is always masterful to have the lines align with the vertical or horizontal (this is difficult but worth the effort). This is a solid effort that shows creative intent and a growing eye for composition

: 12. Title: “Tāne Te Wānanga” Photographer Level: Novice Score: 71 – Merit This is a striking black-and-white interpretation of a traditional Māori carving, presented with strength, respect, and compositional intent. The use of monochrome is a confident choice that draws attention to form, texture, and contrast — and it works well here, heightening the impact of the subject’s expression and the natural grain of the wood. The carved figure is powerfully placed within the frame, and the modern linear background provides a graphic counterpoint to the organic lines of the carving. This contrast between cultural symbolism and contemporary architecture creates an unexpected harmony that speaks to the enduring presence of Māori heritage in modern Aotearoa — a fitting response to the Kiwiana theme. Technically, the exposure is well handled, with good detail retained in the shadows and highlights. The slight angle of the lines adds visual energy without becoming chaotic. With a little refinement — perhaps softening the highlights or bringing out slightly more midtone detail in the shadows — this could easily be pushed into a higher tier. This is a thoughtful and well-composed image that shows artistic promise and cultural awareness.

: 13. Title: “A Real Kiwi Bloke” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 78 – Merit This image is full of charm, character, and humour — a lively, down-to-earth portrayal of everyday Kiwiana that many New Zealanders will recognise and smile at. The subject — complete with gumboots, flannel shirt, and a bright yellow Ryobi mower — embodies the DIY, hands-on spirit of the “typical Kiwi bloke” in his natural suburban habitat. It’s the kind of image that feels authentic, nostalgic, and joyfully familiar. Technically, this image is well executed. The strong use of colour, particularly the pop of red in the shirt and yellow in the mower, helps anchor the scene and draw attention. The composition is well considered, and the lighting — bright and clean — adds to the cheerful, sunny feel. The garden details and weatherboard house provide a nice, contextual backdrop without being overly cluttered. To take this image into Highly Commended territory, consider pushing the storytelling or emotional moment a little further — perhaps with more expression, motion, or interaction. A slightly shallower depth of field could also help separate the subject more strongly from the background. Overall, this is a confident and endearing entry that hits the Kiwiana theme head-on.

: 14. Title: “Great N.Z. R.D.” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 86 – Highly Commended This image captures a wonderfully familiar slice of rural New Zealand life — the lineup of colourful letterboxes on a roadside fence, with lush green paddocks behind. It’s a perfect example of Kiwiana in its quiet, everyday form — practical, quirky, and unmistakably local. The choice of subject shows a strong sense of observation and a genuine appreciation for the small details that define our cultural landscape. Compositionally, the image is well balanced and visually pleasing. The repetition of shapes and varied colours keeps the eye moving across the frame, while the vivid green background adds freshness and contrast without overwhelming the foreground. The little signs of wear and weathering on the boxes add charm and character — these are letterboxes with stories. Technically, this image is strong, although the vignette is a little heavy. Exposure and colour are well handled, and the shallow depth of field gives just enough softness to the background to emphasise the subject. A subtle enhancement in lighting or contrast might lift the impact even further — but it’s already a polished and expressive piece. Overall, this is a very successful and characterful entry — an image that captures a uniquely Kiwi moment with clarity and affection.

: 15. Title: “Milk Delivery” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 87 – Highly Commended This is a beautifully observed tribute to a bygone era — the wire crate of glass milk bottles, tucked inside a rustic metal box, instantly evokes memories of early mornings, clinking bottles, and community life. It’s pure, nostalgic Kiwiana — and the image feels like a quiet homage to the simplicity of the past. The composition is clean and well framed. The bottles are presented with care and clarity, and the photographer has done a great job balancing light to retain detail in the white tones of the milk without blowing out the highlights. The muted palette and soft, overcast light suit the subject perfectly, and the cardboard number “91” adds an authentic, human touch. The background is nicely subdued, keeping the focus on the subject — though a very subtle crop or vignette might have helped tighten the visual impact. The darkness at the top of the frame is heavy. It would be nice to have a little detail to create interest without distraction. Still, the strength of this image lies in its restraint and emotional resonance. Overall, this is a quiet, confident photograph that speaks volumes in its simplicity. A strong Highly Commended.

: 16. Title: “Buzzy Bee” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 85 – Highly Commended This image features one of the most iconic symbols of Kiwiana — the beloved Buzzy Bee — and it’s presented with a lovely mix of nostalgia and simplicity. The composition is carefully considered, placing the toy on a textured carpet with soft, natural light falling across it, creating a warm, dated but homely atmosphere that instantly transports the viewer back to childhood. Technically, the exposure is very well handled. The colours are vibrant without being over-saturated, and the detail in the bee’s form is crisp and clear. The shadowing adds depth, and the placement of the string leading out of the frame adds a subtle sense of movement and interaction, inviting us to imagine a child just out of view. If anything holds this image back from Honours, it’s the background — while appropriately neutral, the carpet lacks visual interest and slightly flattens the composition. A different angle or selective depth of field might have added more dynamism or mood. Still, this is a delightful and emotionally resonant piece — a classic subject executed with skill and sensitivity.

: 17. Title: “My Nostalgia” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 73 – Merit This image is a heartfelt visual scrapbook — a personal collection of Kiwiana icons arranged in a neat, graphic layout that celebrates some of the most recognisable symbols of New Zealand childhood and culture. The inclusion of the Buzzy Bee, jandals, L&P, pōhutukawa flower, and the beloved Mr 4 Square character creates an immediate emotional connection for viewers who grew up with these iconic elements. The approach is creative and well-intentioned. Framing each image within its own box and assembling them in a digitally composed panel gives the piece a poster-like quality. The green borders are playful and consistent with the nostalgic theme. Each item has been carefully photographed and positioned. That said, the strength of the image as a collection comes slightly at the cost of photographic depth. Each individual element is competently captured, but lacks the nuance or lighting drama that might elevate the work from documentation to artistry. Additionally, the overall feel is more illustrative than photographic, which, while charming, limits its emotional or visual impact compared to more immersive storytelling entries. Still, this is a meaningful and culturally rich piece that clearly comes from the heart and embraces the theme sincerely.

: 18. Title: “Pōhutukawa Flower” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 68 – Accepted This image captures the vibrant essence of summer in Aotearoa — the unmistakable bloom of the pōhutukawa, known as the New Zealand Christmas tree. The photographer has chosen a classic and beloved symbol of Kiwiana and presented it with careful attention to detail and colour. The composition is clean, placing the bloom off-centre and allowing the lush green leaves to provide a complementary background. The red stamens are rich and eye-catching, and the whites of the emerging flowers offer textural contrast. Focus is crisp where it needs to be, and there’s a nice softness in the background to help the subject stand out. While the image is technically well handled, it sits within the realm of competent botanical photography — safe and traditional. To elevate it further, consider exploring different lighting conditions (e.g. backlighting at sunrise or soft side lighting), or tighter cropping to create a more dynamic composition and emotional connection. This is a solid and beautifully presented image that honours a beloved Kiwi icon with care and clarity.

: 19. Title: “Pōhutukawa” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 81 – Highly Commended This image beautifully captures the pōhutukawa in full bloom — not just as a botanical subject, but as a cultural and seasonal icon deeply woven into the fabric of Kiwi life. There’s an undeniable warmth to this photograph: the red blooms glowing against the soft focus background, and hints of a coastal summer scene with boats and sky just gently rendered beyond. What elevates this image is its emotional tone. The lighting has a dreamy, almost nostalgic quality — the kind that evokes barefoot holidays, Christmas at the beach, and slow summer days. The framing is effective, allowing space for the blooms to breathe while giving us a glimpse of the world they belong to. Technically, the image is softly handled — not hyper-sharp, but intentionally so. The artistic softness adds atmosphere, though a little more clarity in the primary bloom might have increased impact without compromising mood. Colour grading leans toward vintage, which works well, giving that old world Christmas postcard feel. Altogether, this is a poetic and evocative image with strong cultural resonance. A well-deserved Highly Commended for its storytelling and sensitivity.

: 20. Title: “K is for Kiwi” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 93 – Honours This image quietly captures the essence of Kiwiana with understated elegance. The weathered mural — a classic kiwi beneath a punga tree — paired with the carved word “KIWI,” evokes a sense of history, place, and identity. What makes this image stand out is its found quality — it feels authentic, unposed, and deeply rooted in the everyday texture of Aotearoa. The colour palette is beautifully restrained. The soft, chalky blues and greens, aged whites, and hints of rust and moss create a nostalgic harmony that speaks to the passing of time. The simplicity of the subject is its strength — nothing is overworked or forced, and the photographer has shown restraint and respect for the scene as it is. Compositionally, the image is balanced and thoughtful. The horizontal bands at the top and bottom frame the work nicely, while the mural and text sit in perfect conversation with one another. It’s a quiet piece, but one with depth and sensitivity — a true celebration of everyday New Zealand through a poetic lens. A gentle yet powerful Highly Commended.

: 21. Title: “Whareiti” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 91 – Honours This image is a quiet delight — a beautifully observed study of an iconic little Kiwiana object nestled among fern fronds. The carved weather house, with its tiny Māori figures and thermometer, is instantly recognisable to many New Zealanders, and the photographer has composed the scene with warmth, humour, and cultural affection. The framing through the native fern gives the piece a sense of intimacy and storytelling — almost like the object is being rediscovered in the bush, or cherished as part of a domestic memory. The koru unfurling at the base adds a beautiful symbolic layer of new life, growth, and continuity — a subtle but powerful inclusion. Technically, the image is well crafted. The depth of field is handled nicely, allowing the whareiti to remain clear while the surrounding ferns create softness and layering. The background colours complement the subject, adding visual interest without distraction. Light is gentle and diffused, adding to the nostalgic, organic feel. To push this into Honours, a slight increase in contrast or careful dodging around the figures might lift their presence a little more from the foliage — but that’s a minor point in what is a charming, richly symbolic image. A strong sense of originality, cultural relevance, and visual poetry.

: 22. Title: “Inquisitive Kea” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 92 – Honours This image is an absolute Kiwi classic — a perfectly timed and beautifully rendered portrait of our famously mischievous alpine parrot. The kea, caught mid-investigation of a vehicle, is a scene instantly familiar to anyone who’s encountered their curious antics in the South Island. It’s humorous, authentic, and deeply rooted in New Zealand culture. The technical execution is strong. Focus is excellent, with clear detail in the feathers and a sparkle of personality in the kea’s eye. The composition is clever — the diagonal of the vehicle’s underside leads the eye down to the bird, while the textured gravel adds a gritty sense of place. The lighting is soft but directional enough to give depth and dimension to both subject and setting. What makes this image shine is not just its storytelling, but its restraint. There’s no excessive cropping or stylisation; the photographer lets the moment speak for itself. The only suggestion for pushing into Honours would be perhaps a slight lift in exposure or contrast around the bird’s head to make it pop just a little more against the shadowed background. Still, this is a standout image — culturally rich, visually engaging, and full of character.

: 23. Title: “Kiwi Post” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 88 – Highly Commended This image is a vibrant, storytelling gem — a snapshot of rural New Zealand that’s brimming with personality and colour. The iconic red Rural Post van, poised at a weathered letterbox with the postie’s arm reaching out, speaks volumes about Kiwi life off the beaten track. From the hand-painted signage to the wild roadside setting, it’s a beautifully grounded portrayal of everyday Kiwiana. What truly elevates this image is its composition. The flowers in the foreground create a natural frame and burst with complementary colour, echoing the van’s vivid red. The use of leading lines — from the vehicle, the flowers, and even the mailbox post — draw the viewer’s eye through the scene with energy and rhythm. Technically, this is a strong image. Exposure is well controlled, and the overall sharpness is good. The slight dampness on the ground and misty atmosphere in the background lend authenticity and atmosphere. One minor area for refinement could be lifting the midtones slightly to enhance detail in the darker parts of the van, but this doesn’t detract from the overall impact. This image is rich with story, deeply embedded in place, and joyfully celebrates a slice of New Zealand many will instantly recognise.

: 24. Title: “Kiwiana” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 95 – Honours This image is a powerful, reverent portrayal of Māori artistry — a stunning carved pou that honours tradition, storytelling, and spiritual presence. The decision to photograph the entire form from base to crown captures not just the craftsmanship but the mana and majesty of the carving. It feels grounded in wairua (spirit) and whenua (land), and it’s a bold, respectful expression of Kiwiana in its truest, most indigenous form. Technically, this is a beautifully composed and executed image. The texture of the weathered timber is rich and tactile, and the light falls just right to define the intricate whakairo patterns without flattening them. The soft cloud-filled sky gives the upper frame breathing space and a sense of elevation, while the lower portion is weighty and rooted — giving the image spiritual and visual balance. What elevates this to Honours is its emotional resonance. This is more than documentation — it’s an image that speaks. The figure at the top, with its expressive face and watchful presence, and the flowing, twisting forms below, offer both cultural significance and sculptural beauty. This photograph stands confidently as an artwork in its own right — deeply respectful, visually compelling, and unmistakably Aotearoa.

: 25. Title: “Only in NZ” Photographer Level: Salon Score: 72 – Merit This image celebrates a uniquely New Zealand expression of care, identity, and community — our emergency services vehicle beautifully wrapped in bold Māori design. The Waka Manaaki (vehicle of care) is not only a functional object but a powerful symbol of cultural partnership and respect. Capturing it so cleanly and purposefully speaks to a strong sense of place and pride. The composition is well executed. The low angle enhances the mana of the ambulance — this is not just any vehicle, but a guardian presence. The lines of the driveway and building gently frame the scene, while the vibrant yellow-green colour palette and koru-based graphics make the image pop. Everything is sharp, and the lighting is well controlled despite the overcast day, with enough contrast to give definition and depth. One of the image’s strengths lies in its quiet storytelling: the rural setting, the arm’s-length reach of healthcare, the reflection of trees in the window — all hint at broader narratives without needing to be literal. Stepping slightly further back or repositioning would give the image a touch more breathing room. Nonetheless, this is an iconic and current entry that brings modern Kiwiana into focus — service, culture, and aroha in motion.

: 26. Title: “Inside Waitangi Marae” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 74 – Merit This image captures a bold and iconic detail from inside a marae, showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship and symbolic depth of Māori whakairo (carving). The subject — fierce, proud, and intricately carved — represents cultural strength and heritage. The strong vertical format helps centre the viewer’s attention on the power of the figure, while the texture of the tukutuku panels and surrounding carvings adds rich context and cultural layering. Technically, the image is nicely framed, with symmetry that gives a feeling of balance and reverence. The colour palette — rich reds, browns, and earthy ochres — is well handled and reflective of traditional marae interiors. Lighting is sufficient, although slightly uneven; the right side of the carving is a touch more shadowed than the left, which subtly affects detail visibility in that area. A little more even light or careful post-processing could enhance clarity without losing atmosphere. This photograph communicates respect for place and heritage, and is a strong representation of Kiwiana through the lens of indigenous identity. It’s thoughtfully composed and well seen, with room for small technical refinements that could elevate it further.

: 27. Title: “The Postcard” Photographer Level: Intermediate Score: 73 – Merit This image beautifully encapsulates a classic New Zealand summer — the vivid red of the pōhutukawa blossoms set against blue sky, turquoise sea, and white sand is instantly recognisable and evocative. It’s a bold and cheerful celebration of Kiwiana that invites the viewer right into the scene. The image is well exposed, with vibrant colours that pop without feeling overdone. The framing captures a sense of abundance and seasonal joy, and the use of depth works well to layer tree, beach, sea, and headland into a cohesive visual story. There’s a lot happening in the composition, and at times this works slightly against the image. The eye is drawn in many directions, particularly where the lower branch intersects the distant headland. A slight shift in shooting position may have allowed for a cleaner relationship between elements, perhaps placing the foliage more clearly against the sky or water for clarity and focus. That said, the image retains strong impact, charm, and a genuine sense of place.

: 28. Title: Grassroots Rugby Photographer Level: Salon Score: 88 – Highly Commended This image delivers a punch of nostalgic authenticity — the worn rugby ball and sturdy Red Band gumboots are such iconic pairings in the New Zealand rural landscape, evoking muddy paddocks, Saturday morning games, and backyard battles among siblings. It’s a well-observed cultural portrait, strong in its simplicity and storytelling. The warm side lighting is beautifully handled, lending texture and form to the ball and boots, and creating a rich tonal contrast against the cool green of the grass. There’s an honesty to the image — no gloss or stylisation, just a grounded sense of place and purpose that feels deeply Kiwi. If I were to offer one area for consideration, it would be the overall composition. While the placement is balanced, a slight adjustment in angle or depth of field could have created a stronger separation between the objects and background, enhancing focus and visual hierarchy. Still, this is a highly effective and evocative image with emotional resonance and technical skill.

: 29. Title: Red Band and Number 8 Photographer Level: Salon Score: 89 – Highly Commended This image is pure, unfiltered Kiwiana with a delightful twist of humour and subtle commentary. A single Red Band gumboot perched on a waratah with a bit of Number 8 wire — it’s instantly recognisable and speaks volumes about our rural ingenuity, practicality, and identity. It’s the kind of image that makes you smile with a knowing nod. Technically, the photographer has done an excellent job. The boot is beautifully sharp with rich detail, and the background is nicely blurred, helping the subject pop without distraction. The framing is tight and clean, and the vertical post anchors the composition well while the curved wire adds just enough whimsy and motion to the frame without disrupting its stillness. What lifts this image to honours is not just its execution, but its wit and sense of storytelling. There’s a quiet reverence for our rural culture mixed with a dose of dry humour — the well-worn boot standing in as sentinel or silent fence-top flag. The one thing holding it back is the post processing. Where the background has been altered there is an unfortunate highlight around the boot. Still, this is a standout — technically strong, culturally rich, and unmistakably Kiwi. A joy to view.

: 30. Title: Kiwifruit Photographer Level: Salon Score: 85 – Highly Commended This image is a strong and deliberate still life that celebrates one of New Zealand’s most iconic exports. The placement of the halved kiwifruit is excellent — the vibrant green and symmetrical seed pattern pop immediately against the more muted browns of the whole fruit and bowl. The choice of a rich wooden bowl adds a natural warmth that works beautifully with the subject, and the blue backdrop provides a striking but complementary contrast that elevates the scene. Lighting is well managed, with nice dimensionality on the fruit, although there’s a slight specular highlight on the cut surface that might be softened for polish. Compositionally, it feels balanced and thoughtfully arranged, with enough depth and curvature in the bowl to keep the viewer’s eye moving. This image is clean, confident, and commercially viable — the kind of photograph you could see in a food publication or packaging context. A tighter crop or slight lighting refinement might lift it further, but it’s an excellent effort worthy of high praise.