There’s something so special about a spring road trip, as the days are starting to warm up, early rhododendrons are ablaze with jewel-toned blooms, and the still-cold nights leave a glittering trail of dew strewn across the countryside.
Our friend Ngahuia took one such drive earlier this month, with model Izzy Whitham, a camera and a car packed with the best local fashion in tow.
Sure, big shoots with planned-out production can make magic, but sometimes the most precious moments are the ones captured between two creatives, with no set schedule and the ability to pull off the road at any moment to take a snap. This shoot is proof of just that, and we’re so lucky to witness it. Roll down the window and come along for the ride above, then get to know model on-the-rise Izzy, below.
Name: Izzy Whitham
Star sign: Libra
Where do you live now and where do you consider home?
I have grown up and am still living in Auckland, New Zealand.
What do you love to fill your days with?
In summer I’ll fill my days with lots of swimming, walks and cocktails 🤭
What was the experience of traveling and shooting like?
It was so incredible to travel through the country and see lots of unexpected beauty. I was also so grateful to get lots of advice on the industry from Ngahuia during the long car rides. She is so cool and I really admire her.
Was there a memorable moment, look or location along the way?
Seeing the “most haunted hotel in New Zealand” + shooting the shell bra was very cool!
With summer around the corner, do you have any getaways planned? ☀️👙
I’m definitely going to getaway to my batch at Rākino (tiny, isolated and beautiful island in the Hauraki gulf) that I’ve been every summer since I was 3 weeks old.
If someone were to visit Aotearoa for the first time, where would be your ‘must-visit’ spots?
I would tell them to go to Wanaka in winter.
Have you read any great books lately, or watched anything notable?
I am OBSESSED with the series Fourth Wing and finished all 3 books so fast, I couldn’t put it down!
Entering your twenties, what are you most excited about for?
More fun, opportunities, and traveling the word.
And if you could pass on a bit of advice to your teenage self, what would it be?
To enjoy every moment and not take life too seriously!
Lastly, a deep one... how can we make the most of our time on Earth?
To experience everything, learn from everyone, and not be afraid of trying new things.
Photos & Fashion: Ngahuia Williams
Features Editor: Chloe Hill
Izzy is represented by 62 Management
Shot on location in Te Rohe Pōtae, Aotearoa.
Ka tuku mihi ki ngā mana whenua, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Raukawa hoki.
