A reminder for me to have fun with my business!
Collaborations are an opportunity for me to remember the importance of creating 'just because', of connecting with others and experiencing new things. I'm an avid adventurer, and getting to tie this together with my love for photography is a real privilege.
Pihopa Retreat
This 5-star luxury retreat is nestled in the heart of Nelson. Sarah and her lovely family live here, running the show and ensuring that all guests have an incredible experience.
I reached out to Sarah in 2024, as my partner and I were travelling from the North Island down to the South to settle in Christchurch. I asked if she'd be interested in collaborating with me, and she said yes! So we enjoyed two nights here, with a beautiful breakfast and afternoon tea included each day, along with canapés and drinks in the evening before we were picked up for dinner.
In exchange, I provided Sarah with a number of professional images for her to use for her advertising purposes, along with a family photoshoot.
Black Cat Cruises Akaroa
The Black Cat Cruises team take people out on incredible adventures through Akaroa Harbour - a scenic 90 min drive from Christchurch. From dolphin spotting, to even swimming alongside these amazing creatures, Black Cat Cruises is not only an acclaimed success in NZ's tourism industry, but also internationally recognised as an eco-tourism pioneer. They hold the honour of being the first to introduce cruises in Akaroa, and proud to be acknowledged as NZ's very first eco-tourism operator.
I recently reached out to the team to ask if they'd be interested in collaborating with me, so they invited my partner Josh and I out for a trip on one glorious Saturday morning. We couldn't have asked for better weather, and the team at the check in office all through to the Skipper himself, were all awesome and super enthusastic!
Tiny Away
Tiny Away is a global initiative, combining the charm of tiny‑house living with a passion for eco‑tourism. They work with land owners from around the world to promote each tiny home and its respective space, shining light on the unique environments around them.
Tiny Away reached out to me, asking if I'd be interested in collaborating with them as a Photographer. This meant staying in different tiny homes throughout the South Island, and most recently in Tropical North Queensland! The exchange was for my partner and I to enjoy the tiny home and all of the wonderful surroundings, and I'd provide professional imagery and a write-up about our different stays.
Seifried Winery
Hermann Seifried, an Austrian orchard-raised winemaker, came to New Zealand in 1971, where he fell for Agnes –a spirited kiwi from a Southland sheep farm. Driven by a dream, the couple became pioneers in the South Island’s wine industry. They purchased land in the Moutere Valley, where they planted the region’s first vineyard in 1973.
As their business flourished, the Seifried family also grew. The Seifried children were often found sleeping beneath the vines as Hermann and Agnes worked. Heidi, Chris and Anna developed a deep connection to the vineyard from a young age. Today, all three children play integral roles in the family business, their early vineyard experiences sparking a lifelong passion.
I had the pleasure of visiting this winery on my travels through the Nelson region, offering some professional imagery and an Instagram video in exchange for a tasting session and a delicious bottle of Gewürztraminer to take home.
The Barn Cabins & Camp
Nestled among the Marahau Valley, the Barn is the adventurer's gateway into the Abel Tasman National Park. Established in 1992, it boasts cosy little cabins, glamping sites, tent and van spots, and more.
Josh and I stayed here for a few nights on our travels in the area, and I took some updated branding photos for them, as well as a few reels for Instagram. I captured the essence of The Barn, the lovely staff, and the incredible scenery surrounding it.
A place that we will return to time and time again.
""Kendra did some beautiful photos and a social media boost for our accommodation! I feel very grateful to have her work with us here at the Barn. Kendra was so considerate and energising to have around. I love her way of capturing a moment that fits with the vibe we are going for. Thank you and I can't wait to follow your photography journey, I know it's going to be amazing."
- The Barn Cabins & Camp
Merakii Wellbeing
This skincare range was launched in 2021 after owner, Savannah Blake, discovered first-hand the life-changing benefits of daily self-care rituals.
I reached out to her asking if she'd be interested in swapping a few products for me to try, in exchange for some product photography.
A few years later, I'm still using her products - the morning and evening face oils. I don't rave about a lot of skincare companies, actually, this is the only one I'd recommend to people. That's because it's simple, nothing fancy but still a really nice product to invest in, and it's a little reminder to take time to do something nice for yourself.
The Midwinter Session
Hosted by Venues Ōtautahi, this event celebrates local food, wine, beer, spirits, music and art. Held in the heart of Winter, it was a fabulous experience trying different foods and drinks, with a highlight being the smore-style milk stout from Chinchiller Brewing.
The exchange here - Two tickets and some tastings, in exchange for event photography.
Pegasus Bay Winery Winemaker's Dinner
Market Place Restaurant, Crowne Plaza Hotel
Pegasus Bay Winery is a family-owned venture operated in Waipara, North Canterbury. In collaboration with Market Place Restaurant, they showcased their beautiful range of wines alongside the most delicious food.
The exchange here - event photography for a night's stay for my partner and I at Crowne Plaza, including a dinner for two and complimentary bottle of wine. This was definitely one of my favourite experiences!
