Dark Sky Project

Dark Sky Project

Join us for an unforgettable stargazing adventure.

Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, our purpose-built observation craters give you a fantastic view of the stars. Here, you'll see more, journey further, and understand the night sky like never before.

Child age is between 5 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 5.

If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking.

Dark Sky Project - Crater Experiences

Dark Sky Project - Crater Experiences

Join us for an unforgettable stargazing adventure.

Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, our purpose-built observation craters give you a fantastic view of the stars. Here, you'll see more, journey further, and understand the night sky like never before.

Child age is between 5 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 5.

If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking.

These tours are availlable with English, Chinese or Japanese speaking guides; please choose your preferenced option when booking.

Dark Sky Project - Dark Sky Experiences

Dark Sky Project - Dark Sky Experiences

Our daytime, indoor astronomy tour at the Dark Sky Project Base is suitable for the whole family.

The Dark Sky Experience combines tatai aroraki (Maori astronomy), storytelling and science with fascinating multimedia installations in a ‘Big Bang’ of awe and inspiration.

Thought-provoking, educational and entertaining, the Dark Sky Experience is an experience that will forever change the way you see the night sky. The 45-minute tour, through four distinct zones, is hosted by our passionate guides in our world-class indoor astronomy centre.

Child age is between 5 – 17 years. Infant age is under 5 years.

These tours are availlable with English or Chinese speaking guides; please choose your preferenced option when booking.

Dark Sky Project - Summit Experiences

Dark Sky Project - Summit Experiences

Join us on the Summit Experience for an incredible journey to the stars.

High atop Mount John’s 1,029-metre peak, you'll be at the heart of the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Let our expert guides open your eyes to the Southern night sky with captivating stories and facts.

From the twinkling stars visible to the naked eye to the hidden constellations unveiled through our powerful 16" optical telescopes, every moment is an opportunity for exploration. The incredible Milky Way, far-off planets, constellations. You might even glimpse a distant galaxy. Every night sky reveals something new.

Child age is between 10 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 10.

If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking.

These tours are available with English, Chinese or Japanese speaking guides; please choose your preferenced option when booking.

Dark Sky Project - Virtual Stargazing Experiences

Dark Sky Project - Virtual Stargazing Experiences

Travel across the Milky Way from the comfort of our Dark Sky Project base.

Embark on a Virtual Stargazing Experience in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. This indoor journey brings you the magic of stargazing with stunning virtual renditions of the universe. Our astronomy guides bring the galaxy to life with the latest virtual technology.

It’s your chance to discover the secrets of the cosmos. One minute you're learning to explore the Southern Cross. The next, you're standing right inside Saturn's rings. You’ll truly feel amongst the stars.

Child age is between 7 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 5.

These tours are available with English, Chinese or Japanese speaking guides; please choose your preferenced option when booking.

Dark Sky Project (All Tours)

Dark Sky Project (All Tours)

Join us for an unforgettable stargazing adventure.

Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, our purpose-built observation craters give you a fantastic view of the stars. Here, you'll see more, journey further, and understand the night sky like never before.

Child age is between 5 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 5.

If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking.

These tours are available with English, Chinese or Japanese speaking guides; please choose your preferenced option when booking.

Dark Sky Project Chinese Tours

Dark Sky Project Chinese Tours

Join us for an unforgettable stargazing adventure.

Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, our purpose-built observation craters give you a fantastic view of the stars. Here, you'll see more, journey further, and understand the night sky like never before.

Child age is between 5 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 5.

If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking.

These tours are lead by a Chinese-speaking guide.

Dark Sky Project Japanese Tours

Dark Sky Project Japanese Tours

Join us for an unforgettable stargazing adventure.

Nestled in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, our purpose-built observation craters give you a fantastic view of the stars. Here, you'll see more, journey further, and understand the night sky like never before.

Child age is between 5 – 17 years. Not suitable for children under 5.

If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking.

These tours are lead by a Japanese-speaking guide.