World-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year opens at Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum this Sunday, bringing 100 extraordinary nature photographs from across the globe to Tāmaki Makaurau.
On loan from the Natural History Museum, London, the exhibition opens to the public on Sunday 28 June, with an exclusive Members’ Preview on Saturday 27 June. (ref. https://www.aucklandmuseum.com/visit/exhibitions/wildlife-photographer-of-the-year-2026 )
Now in its 61st year, Wildlife Photographer of the Year is the most prestigious photography event of its kind, showcasing award-winning images that capture hidden animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.
Auckland Museum Director of Audience Engagement Victoria Travers says the exhibition invites visitors to look more closely at the planet we share.
“It’s a privilege to bring Wildlife Photographer of the Year back to Auckland and share some of the most compelling photos taken of our natural world today. These images invite us to see both the beauty of our planet and the challenges it faces.”
Exhibition visitors will have the chance to enter the draw to win the ultimate expedition cruise for two, valued at over $20,000. In partnership with Lindblad Expeditions, one visitor will win an eight-day Alaska expedition for two with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, travelling through the spectacular coastlines of Alaska and British Columbia.
Young photographers can also take inspiration from the exhibition through Nature Next Door: Photography Competition, open to students from Year 0–13. Tamariki and rangatahi are invited to photograph wildlife in their own backyard, local park or neighbourhood, with three entry categories and prize packs up for grabs.
During the July school holidays, families can enjoy Walk on the Wild Side: Gallery Encounters, with two larger-than-life wildlife enthusiasts roaming the Museum’s natural science galleries from Saturday 4 to Sunday 19 July, 10am–12pm and 1–3pm daily. Inspired by nature documentaries, these “Attenborough-in-training” characters will share funny, fascinating and surprising stories about the animals on display, encouraging kids to look closer at the natural world around them.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year is open at Auckland Museum from Sunday 28 June to Sunday 23 August 2026. Entry is included with Museum admission, which is free for Aucklanders. Museum Members can see the exhibition first at the Members’ Preview on Saturday 27 June, 9am–1pm.
Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London, and supported by local exhibition partner Lindblad Expeditions.