It would appear Will Calver has come full circle. The owner of the new Ocean Gallery next to the NZ Maritime Museum can't help thinking growing up exploring London's National Maritime Museum, where his father was director, determined his destiny. ''I remember camping in the back of Ernest Shackleton's infamous
boat the James Caird as a kid. I suppose it's no surprise it got into my pores.'' The specialist marine art and photographic gallery is the first of its kind in Auckland. It's currently featuring work by Will, Douglas Horman, Emirate Team NZ's official photographer Chris Cameron and aerial photographic specialist Terry Fong. Will's affair with photography began when he picked up his first camera at 14. He naturally headed to London's old dockyards to record them on film. By 17 he had his first photo exhibition at the local maritime museum. Like many, Will spent his late teens and early 20s travelling. He took a long break from photography when he chose to enter the world of sales at 23. Fifteen years on, when he realised his life lacked purpose, Will and his family packed up and decided to sail their boat Finale to New Zealand. ''Choosing New Zealand as a destination was more or less an accident. ''It kind of came out of my mouth when my friends asked me where we were heading. It seemed like a good idea at the time.'' Since arriving two years ago with wife Kate and their two sons Thomas, 10, and Patrick, 5, Will got back into photography. ''Marine photography seemed the logical choice. It seemed like a great way to celebrate Auckland's natural harbour and its rich maritime history.'' Will's initial booth outside waterfront cafes selling marine photographs has turned into his ultimate dream. ''I feel lucky be able to combine all my interests and skills into one.''
Ocean Gallery (next to the NZ Maritime Museum) is open daily. Contact Will, ph 357 0881.
By Sharu Delilkan
