The light was fading, the stars brightening, and a mild breeze was coming off the water carrying the pleasant smell of the ocean, but being on this reef is not peaceful or relaxing, the sea of New Zealand's West Coast is unpredictable and something to pay heed to. I had a job to do, get the shots and get back to shore!

I'm extremely delighted to share my brand new image, an elusive image I have wanted for years.

To achieve this image the conditions had to be perfect, and my timing precise. Moon phase, star alignment, weather and tide were some of the factors to consider.
I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw unpredicted Aurora Australis beams appear in my image. I was also pleased to see the Zodiacal light under the Milky Way.

I was worried I overstayed my welcome on the reef; stay too long and you won't find your way back through the labyrinth of natural stepping stones, rock elevated from the sea floor that will quickly become submerged under the incoming tide. One wrong step and I'd lose my camera and equipment and be in deep.

I feel I have obtained the unobtainable by capturing this image, especially with Aurora.
There have been many visits to this location, all pleasant and with great friends, but I have never come away with something I'm happy with.

Also, a fun fact, these starfish are carnivores and can regenerate parts of their body.
 

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