Covering much of the Aoraki/Mount Cook Mackenzie region, the Dark Sky Reserve has been labelled as ‘one of the best stargazing sites on earth’.   As a designated Dark Sky reserve, it gives you the ability to observe the stars in dark conditions similar to those before the Industrial age.

Situated near the town of Lake Tekapo in the heart of the South Island, Dark Sky Project offer both daytime and nighttime stargazing tours of the Mount John Observatory, which is run by the University of Canterbury.   After walking or driving up to the summit of Mount John, enjoy the superb views over Lake Tekapo from the warmth of the Astro Café.

Alternatively, the Cowan’s Hill Stargazing Tour is a shorter exprience for those pushed for time. In a specially designed dome not far from the town, your guide will talk you through the astrological objects and wonders found from peering through your telescope.

Dark Sky Sanctuaries can also be found on Great Barrier Island, the world’s first Island sanctuary and Stewart Island on the southern tip of New Zealand has been officially recognised as the the worlds second sanctuary.   If you’re very lucky and visiting in the winter you may also be able to catch the aurora australis on the southern half of the South Island.

If you happen across this website and are unsure, then rest assured that you are in the best of hands – give it a go and you won’t regret a moment, we don’t.”    Once again thank you so much for a perfect holiday.    Mike & Beccy Smith-Keary