National Geographic Photo Camp

The five-day camps provide opportunities for young people from different community groups and backgrounds to explore the world around them and share their stories through photography. 

With National Geographic photographers as their mentors, the camp participants are challenged to consider the difficult issues they face in their own lives, whether economic, environmental, or social. Then through presentations in their own communities, the students have the opportunity to share their perspectives on these important issues.

The first camp in the series was held in 2019 in Murupara, Bay of Plenty, in 2023 camps were held in Russell, Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Through the lens of their camera, the camp participants expressed their unique perspective on what it means to be Kiwi, weaving together stories of whānau, whenua and modern life.

"Photo Camp inspires kids to be explorers.. to explore their own world in a deeper way and ultimately change all of our worlds."

Amy Toensing, National Geographic Photographer.

Since the program's launch in 2003, the National Geographic Society has conducted more than 120 Photo Camps in 35 countries. Through our partnership, these camps have for the first time been brought to New Zealand. The relationship with National Geographic Society and these photographic camps builds on other work we've been doing with youth through programmes like Koru Care and Airpoints for Schools and is a further step in our commitment to youth, their future, and the protection of our land and culture.