Alpine Stargazing Experience

South Island

Go Tekapo

from

AU$85

per adult

Book Now

Aurora Australis glowing green and pink under the stars at Lake Tekapo

Experiences

Star Gazing Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Tekapo

Location: Lake Tekapo

Duration: 75 minutes

Travel Time: 2 hours

Minimum Age: 3

Details

Discover the Magic of New Zealand’s Night Sky

Step into a world of wonder with the Alpine Stargazing Experience, where the dark skies of Aoraki Mackenzie reveal more stars than most places on Earth. With powerful 14” telescopes, you’ll see dazzling galaxies and nebulae up close. Our expert guides use astro-lasers to point out key constellations, making it easy to connect with the night sky.

This 75-minute journey includes at least an hour under the stars, giving you plenty of time to soak in the brilliance of the cosmos. You’ll gain fascinating insights into astronomy while enjoying one of the clearest skies in the Southern Hemisphere. To finish, a group photo under the stars provides a memory you can share forever.

Group of people using telescopes under the Milky Way during a guided stargazing tour at Lake Tekapo

Group of people stargazing under the Milky Way at Lake Tekapo with a telescope in New Zealand's Dark Sky Reserve

Silhouette of a telescope with the Milky Way arching overhead at Lake Tekapo in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve

Milky Way stretching across the sky above Mt Edward near Lake Tekapo at night

Panoramic view of the Milky Way reflected in a lake near Tekapo under crystal-clear night skies

Why Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve is Special

Aoraki Mackenzie is one of the world’s few gold-rated International Dark Sky Reserves, offering pristine stargazing conditions. Minimal light pollution allows the Milky Way to shine brighter and the Southern Cross to stand out clearly. The depth and clarity of these skies make them a dream for both beginners and astronomy enthusiasts.

Being in such a unique environment means every stargazing night feels extraordinary. Even with the naked eye, the sheer number of stars is breathtaking. It’s an unforgettable experience that blends science, storytelling, and the natural beauty of New Zealand’s alpine setting.

INCLUSIONS

Complimentary transport to/from the Silver River Stargazing office in Tekapo to the stargazing site, just minutes from Lake Tekapo Township
Use of our warm down jackets
A guided tour of the night sky
Use of our modern 14” telescopes
Small group tours
Minimal light pollution
Expansive 360° views of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
A free photo under the stars with a digital link provided for download