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CRANKWORX 2025: TWO STOPS, AFFORDABLE PASSES AND SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR FANS
CRANKWORX 2025: TWO STOPS, AFFORDABLE PASSES AND SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR FANS

NEW ZEALAND | November 20, 2024 – Festival passes for the highly anticipated Crankworx Summer Series Christchurch and Crankworx Rotorua 2025 are officially on sale, with updates to both festivals designed to give back to fans, delivering the ultimate experience in mountain biking.

Whittaker’s takes action to manage challenges in global cocoa supply
Whittaker’s takes action to manage challenges in global cocoa supply

While Whittaker’s has to date sourced only Ghanaian cocoa beans to make its chocolate, it is now supplementing this with cocoa beans that meet its quality and ethical standards from other parts of Africa. Whittaker’s Chocolate Lovers will see changes to its packaging to reflect the cocoa origin change from next month.​ 

New Zealand Fish & Game sees call to remove advocacy as misguided
New Zealand Fish & Game sees call to remove advocacy as misguided

Fish & Game manages trout, salmon, and game birds and helps New Zealanders to connect with nature and experience the many benefits fishing and hunting offers.  A call to completely remove Fish & Game’s advocacy function is misguided and fails to understand the role the organisation plays, says Fish & Game New Zealand chief executive Corina Jordan. 

Recreational Fishing Nets Big Gains for Region - Hydro Canal Fishery Contributes $13.6 Million to Mackenzie Basin Economy
Recreational Fishing Nets Big Gains for Region - Hydro Canal Fishery Contributes $13.6 Million to Mackenzie Basin Economy

New research shows that recreational freshwater fishing contributes millions of dollars to the Mackenzie Basin and that local businesses and communities land the gains. Central South Island Fish & Game Council (CSIFGC) today released the results of a groundbreaking economic impact assessment conducted in partnership with the University of Otago and Meridian Energy. 

Urban BBQ Festival | Hastings
Urban BBQ Festival | Hastings

BBQ lovers are in for more meaty goodness in November when the Urban BBQ Festival returns to Tomoana Showgrounds, Hastings. Once again the Demo Stage hosts a full afternoon of demonstrations that will take your pitmaster skills to the next level. Butterfly a leg of lamb, serve some smokey cocktails and cheese, master ribs and brisket, and get that crackling crispy on a homemade porchetta.

Whittaker’s indulges fruit lovers with two new Artisan Collection flavours
Whittaker’s indulges fruit lovers with two new Artisan Collection flavours

Whittaker’s is delighted to bring back two fruit lovers’ favourites, Raspberry & New Zealand Strawberry 100g, and Gisborne Orange & Hazelnut 100g, now showcasing local ingredients, as part of its core New Zealand Artisan Collection.  

Ready, steady, fish! Freshwater season licenses now on sale
Ready, steady, fish! Freshwater season licenses now on sale

Fishing licences are on sale today as anticipation builds for the upcoming season. “Spring is on its way, and today marks a key date in the diary for keen anglers,” said Fish & Game New Zealand chief executive Corina Jordan. “With the season starting on October 1, it’s a good idea for anglers to get in early and grab their licence so they can focus on sorting their gear and planning trips with friends.

Spawning monitoring – measuring to manage 
Spawning monitoring – measuring to manage 

Fish & Game staff throughout the country are busy conducting spawning surveys for trout and salmon to ensure there are sustainable fisheries for the future and to check up on stream and river health. Fish & Game New Zealand chief executive Corina Jordan said there were a range of ways to monitor spawning, from using fish traps to walking up a stream and counting. 

Featured Artist - Catherine Macdonald
Featured Artist - Catherine Macdonald

New Zealand artist Catherine Macdonald creates drawings & prints, makes & illustrates objects & furniture, and writes, illustrates & publishes books.

Artwork - Just as they fall (Catherine MacDonald)

Featured Artist - Kimbra Taylor
Featured Artist - Kimbra Taylor

Kimbra has a Diploma in Visual Communications from the Wellington School of Design and a teacher's certificate.

“I worked in an advertising agency as an illustrator and visualiser, The Evening Post as an illustrator and then became a freelance illustrator. I worked with Thomas Nelson publishing firm and illustrated many children's books. One of the paintings from a book I illustrated was given to the author for her birthday. I felt very honoured and delighted to be able to share this with her as a gift.” Kimbra shares

Shooting for the Stars: A Beginner's Guide to Astrophotography

Shooting for the Stars: A Beginner's Guide to Astrophotography

Tony Cutting
Tony Cutting, Tony Cutting Digital

Introduction

Since I was a little boy camping out with my cousins, stargazing, and looking for comets I have been fascinated about the night sky. As an adult, I am now even more excited about the thought of being able to capture those beautiful images.

Astrophotography has soared to new heights in popularity, capturing the imagination of photographers and stargazers alike. This blog post navigates the mesmerising universe of capturing celestial bodies through the lens of a camera. From the Milky Way’s spiral arms to the moon's craggy surface, we'll guide you on how to immortalise these cosmic wonders.

PHOTO CREDITS
1. Photo by Jake Weirick on Unsplash 2. Photo by Jeremy Thomas on Unsplash 3. Photo by Michael on Unsplash 4. Photo by Felix Mittermeier on Unsplash

Why Astrophotography is Trending

The allure of astrophotography lies in its ability to bridge the vastness of space, bringing the universe a little closer to home. It's not just about taking pictures; it's about connecting with the cosmos. With advancements in technology and the rise of social media platforms, more individuals are showcasing their celestial captures, fueling a growing curiosity and interest. While specific statistics vary, the consistent upward trend in online searches for astrophotography gear and tutorials underscores its increasing popularity.

Getting Started with Astrophotography

Required Equipment:

  • DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings: Your gateway to capturing the cosmos.

  • Sturdy tripod: Essential for stability during long exposures.

  • Remote shutter release: This captures shots without touching the camera and avoiding any shaking.

  • Intervalometer: Helps in setting up time-lapses and long exposure sequences.

  • Telescope (optional): For deep-sky photography aiming at distant galaxies and nebulae.

Camera Settings for Astrophotography:

  • Aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings: Aim for a wide aperture (low f-number), a shutter speed of around 20-30 seconds to avoid star trails (unless that's your goal), and an ISO setting that balances brightness and noise, typically between 1600 and 3200, depending on your camera’s capabilities.

  • Focus tips for capturing stars and galaxies: Manual focus is king in astrophotography. Use live view mode to zoom in on a bright star and adjust focus until it’s a sharp point of light.

Location Scouting Tips for Ideal Astrophotography Spots:

Seek out areas with low light pollution, often far from city lights. Apps and websites like Dark Site Finder can help in scouting ideal locations.

Resources for Learning More

  1. Online Tutorials and Courses:

  2. Books and Guides for Beginners in Astrophotography:

    • There are numerous informative books that detail the intricacies of astrophotography, from gear to post-processing techniques.

Local Astronomy Clubs or Workshops:

Joining a local astronomy club or participating in workshops can provide hands-on experience and mentorship from seasoned astrophotographers.

Conclusion

Astrophotography’s blend of science, art, and technology offers a unique lens through which to explore the universe. As you venture into capturing the night sky, remember that patience and practice are as vital as the right gear. The cosmos is vast and ever-changing, providing endless opportunities for stunning photography.

Call-to-Action

We’d love to hear about your astrophotography ventures! Share your experiences or any questions in the comments section below. For more tips and celestial inspiration, follow us on our social media platforms.

Let's embark on this astronomical journey together, capturing the beauty of the cosmos through our lenses.

Written By Tony Cutting
For Aotearoa Today

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