The Wanaka Tree

Description

One of the most photographed trees in the world resides in Wanaka, New Zealand. This tree is simply called The Wanaka Tree and has become a major tourist attraction for the town. While beautiful in any light year round, there is a special time during the autumn that all of the tree’s leaves turn bright gold and perfectly contrast the blue water of lake Wanaka. I took this image on one of my after-work strolls as I often did during this time of year. The lake is always so peaceful during this time of year as most of the seasonal tourists had left and the ski hills had not yet opened bringing the flock of adventure seekers back to town. As I headed down to the lake shore I found myself looking at the tree as though I was seeing it again for the first time. A perfect example of endurance and longevity, this tree had stood the test of time even as the water had come to nearly touch its lower branches. I snapped a few images and really enjoyed the peaceful nature I found within the image.