For a prime photo spot, check out Pukaki Canal Road. It provides spectacular reflections of the Ben Ohau mountains. If you visit during the roughly month-long lupin season (typically November through December), the flowers create an amazing splash of color along the canal's edge. The road is gravel, but it’s maintained well, and there are many easy places to stop and park. The lighting is great throughout the day during this season. A wide-angle lens is a must for this location!