Aoraki Mount Cook, often referred to as the Cloud Piercer, is New Zealand's highest mountain standing at 12,218 feet and has long been adored by many across the world for its incredible glaciers and hugely intimidating peaks. Its distinct summit can often be seen rising from the valley floor piercing above the clouds.

Aoraki was given its name by Maori and represents the most sacred of ancestors. The mountain is the physical manifestation of Aoraki the ancestor, being the link between the supernatural and the natural world.

I have photographed this mountain many times, but on this occasion the weather had been unkind for days on end and then on the morning we were leaving this magnificent place, Aoraki presented himself in the most beautiful form. Piercing a cloud and being true to the name, the peacefulness and calm of this moment couldn't have been more perfect and was an incredible reminder from nature to always have hope and to persevere through the hard times.