Val Atkinson Photography Weekend
November 2010 NZ$1600 Per Couple
Internationally renowned outdoor photographer Val Atkinson caught his first trout on a fly rod at the age of seven, and that hatchery fish sparked a flame that still keeps him warm. Thirty years ago he started taking a camera on fishing trips after realizing there was much more to angling than catching fish. Over the years he has been able to combine these two passions into his life's work - a quest for beauty and solitude in wild and romantic places around the world. Poronui is one of those places.
Every year Val visits us to pick up a rod and fish some of the secret pools and eddies on Poronui. And every year he puts down the rod and picks up a camera, capturing images of Poronui that we share with you on our website. It is Val’s desire to share with you the passion he feels for both fly fishing and photography, that enables us to offer you this incredible opportunity.
You and your fellow guests will enjoy a wilderness walk with Val to watch the master at work, learn some of his secrets, perhaps work with Val to compose a personalised image and even take some images of your own. In the evening you will swap fishing stories with each other at dinner around a shared table, hosted by Val in our legendary underground wine cellar.
Hopefully you will go home, motivated anew to share the desire to cherish, respect and protect whatever wilderness remains in the world. As Val says, “Here's to truth, adventure and passion!"
To join us for this experience of a lifetime, call Steve on +64 21 888 669 or Eve on +64 7 384 2080 or make a booking inquiry by emailing steve@poronui.com.
PROGRAM
Arrive at the legendary Poronui Lodge on the Friday evening, check in and relax. View an exhibition of Val’s work in the Lodge over pre-dinner drinks and canapés at 7pm, followed by a delicious dinner.
Next morning, after a breakfast and an initial briefing workshop, you will participate in a guided wilderness walk with Val to take in some of the highlights of the spectacular Poronui wilderness - including the Mohaka River. Learn more by watching Val compose and take images, and receive guidance on creating personalised images of your own. A picnic lunch will be provided, please bring your own photography equipment if desired.
Return to the lodge for refreshments and dinner hosted by Val in our legendary underground wine cellar.
On Sunday morning, weather permitting, there may be an opportunity to rise early and catch the first hour of dawn that provides the perfect morning light for photography. Return to the Lodge and enjoy breakfast before attending a final workshop. Val will show you some post-production tricks to turn your images into works of art, followed by a light lunch and departure.
This special package includes two nights shared accommodation at the Lodge or Blake House, all meals, an open bar and all activities with our special guest.
To make an inquiry, please call Steve on +64 21 888 669 or email steve@poronui.com.