Mt John Night Tour Dark Sky Stargazing, Lake Tekapo

Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve Dedicated to keeping the skies light-pollution free, the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve is the first such reserve found in the southern hemisphere, and is therefore one of the world’s best destinations for astronomy enthusiasts.

Offering views of the Southern Cross, distant planets and swirling nebulae, the telescopes found here attract both the curious and professional alike to study the darkened night skies.

Covering 4300 sq km over Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park and the neighbouring Mackenzie Basin, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve forms the world’s largest such reserve. On this tour, departing in the late evening when the skies are clear, you can enjoy stargazing in this magnificent environment.

Experienced guides will showcase the amazing features of New Zealand’s night sky and with the use of powerful telescopes they will point out some of the notable features, including star-clusters and distant galaxies. Return transfers from selected accommodation is included.

Duration: 2 hours
Price: from £90 per person
Departures: daily (weather permitting)