Gaze up and marvel at everything the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – the largest in the world of its type – has to offer, with Earth & Sky Stargazing and Observatory Tours.

 

Why we love Star Gazing

The well-informed tour guides will be able to teach you anything you want to know about the glorious blanket of darkness that covers our skies, anything from basic astronomy to the mind-blowing science of space. The University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory is closed to the public at nights, however, with this tour, you’ll be given special access to come and see the stars at this southernmost optical research facility in the world.

 

About the activity

Situated in the middle of a Dark Sky Reserve atop of a private mountain, the observatory’s view of the sky is completely undisturbed thanks to the lack of local light pollution, which will allow you to see stars like you’ve never seen them before. Surrounded by glacial lakes and the southern alps, the internationally renowned observatory not only has beautiful views of the sky, but also the neighbouring countryside.

 

On the Mt. John Tour, you will be able to explore the night sky through the impressive professional telescopes. You will have 2 hours to examine the Milky Way and discover fascinating constellations, galaxies, and planets.

 

If you have a DSLR camera, bring it along, as Earth & Sky’s astrophotographers are more than happy to capture the stars for you so that you can have a lasting memory of this experience.

WILD KIWI FACTOR