Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, South Island, New Zealand
When we talk wildlife viewing and in particular African safaris, we place the focus on ‘time in’ the bush rather than ‘timing’ the best sightings.
Well, completely by accident, we were reminded the ethos applies similarly across most walks of life.
Because had we not resisted the urge to stay in our very comfortable bed at Sky Scape, we may well have missed one of the best aurora displays New Zealand has seen in years, and perhaps our best chance to see the southern hemisphere’s version of the more famouse aurora borealis.
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dark sky reserve taking in 4,367 square kilometres.
in the Southern Hemisphere. It is comprised of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin of Aotearoa/New Zealand’s South Island. The reserve is not only a recognition of the pristine and beautiful dark skies of the Mackenzie Region, but also the commitment of the local Mackenzie residents and business owners to minimise their light pollution and maximise the opportunity for enjoying the night sky and all its beauty.
Learn more here Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Dark Sky Project
There are a number of experience options.
And while we would normally go for one that includes fine food (Dark Sky Diner), on this occasion we opted for the Summit Experience (sans dinner).
This option sees guest meet at the Dark Sky Project centre in Tekapo.
You are then whisked up to Mt John, which sits at 1,029 metres and provides a 360-degree view across the largest accredited International Dark Sky Reserve in the world.
On arrival, the Project’s astronomy guides provide a basic understanding and guide to the night sky taking advantage of some of the very best conditions available in the world for viewing the stars, planets, milky way and everything else in between.
Extreme care is taken to aclimatise your eyes to night sky viewing, with strict rules against artifical white and blue light (no flash, no phone light).
After initial stargazing with the naked eye, guided by impressive green lasers, guest have the opportunity to try a number of optical telescopes including the 16 inch located in the private observatory dome.
The Summit Experience runs for around 1 hour and 45 minutes and includes use of an ECW (extreme cold weather jacket) if so desired.
Learn more here Dark Sky Project
Read What Others Had to Say About Our Night of Luck
RNZ - Solar storm lights up 'best' Aurora Australis in years
NZ Herald - South Island aurora australis display one of brightest
