Nina Gastreich

Nina Gastreich – Capturing Connection Through the Lens
Nina Gastreich is a German-born photographer based in New Zealand since 2003. What began as a one-year working holiday turned into a 22-year (and counting) journey of creativity and connection through the lens.
Nina received her first camera at age five — a Kodak point-and-shoot with flash cubes and film cartridges — sparking a lifelong fascination with capturing moments. Through her teenage years, she always had a camera in hand, documenting life as she saw and felt it.
Her professional path began with an apprenticeship in offset printing and freelance work for a local German newspaper, covering arts and sports events, often on the move with triathlon teams. These early experiences trained her eye for motion, emotion, and storytelling.
After relocating to Aotearoa, Nina completed her Diploma in Digital Photography in 2013, focusing on dance photography — a medium that continues to inspire her. This milestone also marked the launch of her brand, Ninagphotographynz.
Nina now specializes in low-light, motion-based event photography, and emotive portraits of families, children, and performers. Her work captures the intersection of movement and meaning — from the raw energy of a stage performance to quiet, fleeting moments of connection.

Nina’s commissioned work spans cultural festivals, school productions, and dance events. She has covered Tempo Dance Festival, YouDance, Auckland Fringe, HHI NZ / Regional Hip Hop Qualifiers, Battle in The Bay, Project Tauranga. She regularly works for Dance/ Theater companies like Phoenix Belly Dance, Identity Dance Company, The Dance Studio, Pineapple Productions, Momentum Productions,.. as well as individual national and international dancers/ performers and musicians