In June, we welcomed journalist Justin Meneguzzi to the West Coast. Justin is working with National Geographic Traveller (UK) on a 10-page feature for the Jan/Feb 2026 issue. This story will also be syndicated to the parent National Geographic website in the US.
The story is about retracing a former Maori trading route through the Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine, with stops along the way to showcase the scenery and history of the region.
Justin travelled with photographer Adrienne Pitts who captured their experiences.
Justin and Adrienne arrived into Hokitika where they experienced a tour with Te Rua and Sons Pounamu Trails and learnt about the process of pounamu carving with Katene Campbell at Bonz n Stonz Studio. The following day they made their way to the Hokitika Gorge before driving to Greymouth to visit Māwhera Pounamu Pathway and board the TranzAlpine.
Their first stop was Moana, where they disembarked the train and checked in to Hotel Lake Brunner. During their stay, they spent time learning about the history of the area, led by a Ngāi Tahu guide.
They departed on the TranzAlpine the next day, bound for Arthur's Pass.