Mackenzie Region

Stargazing & Astrophotography

New Zealand’s Largest Dark Sky Reserve

The Mackenzie is ideal for stargazing as it is home to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Reserve, New Zealand’s largest reserve at 4,367 square kilometres. The spacious landscape coupled with strict lighting controls ensures you’ll get a stellar view of the night sky. There’s a wide range of paid tours to choose from: a working observatory, floating in hammocks in hot pools, a wine cellar, farm tours, and even small group tours that deliver a bespoke experience at your accommodation. You can also try your hand at astrophotography with one of the region’s talented guide/photographers. Another option is to bring some cosy blankets and folding chairs (don’t forget a thermos of hot chocolate!) and find your own special place to ponder the universe beneath the stars. There are plenty of good locations on the canal roads, and seeing the stars reflected in the water is truly a special sight.

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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.

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