NIWA's annual photographic competition produced some amazing shots of the natural environment
From one Pole to the other, Niwa scientists work in some of the world's most extraordinary landscapes. On any given day you might find a Niwa staff member under the ocean, on the ice, atop a mountain or deep in a lake or river.
These stunning environments are celebrated eachyear in an annual photography competition for staff.
A flying fish jumps out of the water at the Poor Knights Islands, this image won the overall prize. Photo / Crispin Middleton
The winner of this year's award was specialist diver Crispin Middleton, with his photo entitled Underwater Angel, taken near the Poor Knights Islands. Middleton has been trying to capture photos of flying fish for years, but every time he tried they would simply dart away. This year he managed to get his shot by hovering above the fish where they would linger for a few seconds before darting away.
The judges described the flying fish as like a piece of jewellery set against a black background.
"It has beautiful colour and is a very detailed image. An iridescent jewel against the dark of the ocean, beautifully captured and nicely lit to show all its subtle colour. This would have been a rare shot to capture."
Lake Rotorua as night falls. Photo / Rob Murdoch
This shot of the glacial headwaters of the Rakaia River won the Freshwater section prize. Photo / Shannan Crow
Sunset at Tarn Ridge, Tararua Ranges. Photo / Ross Mitchell
Close-up with a southern Buller's albatross, and winner of the Our Work category. Photo / Rob Murdoch
Clear skies provide an astronomical view on a lookout near The Remarkables. Photo / Ayushi Kachhara
