The Mackenzie is world famous for its illustrious night skies but did you know winter is the best time to stargaze? Winter offers longer, clear night skies and the centre of the Milky Way sits right above. And where better to see it than New Zealand’s largest dark sky reserve?
1. Dark Sky Project
Located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, Dark Sky Project offers world-leading astro-tourism experiences. From evening tours at Mt John Observatory to the world-first indoor multimedia astronomy experience, connect with the night skies and ignite a passion for dark sky preservation.
2. Chameleon Stargazing
Experience budget-friendly, family-oriented stargazing in Lake Tekapo with Chameleon Stargazing. Using a 9.25-inch telescope, enjoy hot chocolate, marshmallows, and photos under the stars. Tours are customizable and private bookings are available, ensuring a memorable night for small groups and families.
3. Big Sky Stargazing
Discover the wonders of the southern night sky with Big Sky Stargazing at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Their hour-long tour features naked eye, binocular, and telescope viewing of star clusters, galaxies, and the Milky Way. If the weather is poor, enjoy a stunning digital planetarium experience. Every night is unique and unforgettable.
4. Silver River Stargazing & Astrophotography Tours
Silver River Stargazing specialises in small group tours that offersa 1.5-hour journey under the stars, featuring telescope views, astro-lasers, and personalized photos. For astrophotography enthusiasts, Fraser Gunn’s exclusive 3.5-hour tour is a must, offering in-depth lessons and stunning sky captures in the International Dark Sky Reserve. Something for all appetites, and Mandarin speaking tours available.
5. Tekapo Star Gazing
Stargaze from hot pools with Tekapo Stargazing. This unique tour combines hot pool relaxation with guided stargazing, including telescope views, storytelling, and even a virtual reality experience in bad weather. Perfect for those seeking a soul-warming stargazing adventure.
6. Alpha CruX Stargazing & Astrophotography
Located in Lake Tekapo, Alpha CruX offers mobile private astronomy tours and astrophotography lessons throughout the Mackenzie Region. Enjoy a personalized stargazing experience right from your home or holiday accommodation, avoiding the crowds and enjoying the serenity of the night sky.
7. Pūkaki Wine Cellar & Observatory
At Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, enjoy stargazing and astrophotography in a no-light-pollution area. Start with a whisky or wine in the cellar, then explore the stars with a 6” refractor telescope in the observatory. Personalized and small-group, this tour offers an intimate dark sky experience with optional astrophotography assistance. Team It up with dinner to create the unforgettable Billion Star Dining experience.
8. Billy the Bard
Join Billy the Bard at the Tekapo Solar Challenge Circle for a magical evening of storytelling and stargazing. As the sky darkens, listen to tales of the Mackenzie region and welcome the stars with song and drums. A donation-based busking show, suitable for all ages, with private bookings available for special occasions.
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We can’t wait to welcome you to the Legendary Mackenzie! Step into the great wide open and discover NZ’s highest mountains, longest glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands and clearest starry skies. Take a scenic flight into the mountains and land on glaciers; enjoy the night sky within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve; explore the amazingly beautiful landscape by cycling, walking, kayaking, swimming, skiing and more.