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Stargazing & Astrophotography

Without a doubt, our UNESCO recognised starlight reserve is a once in a lifetime must-do activity. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve was awarded the first ever Gold-level dark sky status, a recognition bestowed for the unparalleled clarity of its night skies.

While you can see the stars from anywhere in Tekapo one of the best ways to fully experience the ethereal sight is to take a star tour.  Depending on the tour and weather conditions, you may be shown around a world-class research observatory, learn of some of the discoveries being made here and view the Milky Way, distant star clusters, planets, nebulae, or perhaps the craters of the moon!  If you are very lucky you may even see an Aurora Australis, the famous Southern Lights!

AlphaCrux2

Alpha CruX- Stargazing & Astrophotography

Alpha CruX offers fully mobile, private stargazing astronomy tours, astrophotography tours and photo editing tuition. Take a look at some of the most fascinating stars and deep sky objects in the southern night sky, with the use of a laser and a high-powered telescope and without the hassle of having to leave your property.

Star gazing © Chameleon Stargazing

Chameleon Stargazing

A budget and family friendly stargazing option, with each tour customised to meet the individual interests of participants. Experienced local astronomy guides/photographers. An unforgettable experience for small, personal groups of family and friends. Camouflage into the night sky with Chameleon Stargazing!

Dark Sky

Dark Sky Project

Experience the wonders of the universe with Dark Sky Project, on a night-time stargazing Observatory Tour at one of two dedicated locations in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. With tours at University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory and Cowan’s Observatory on offer, you’ll have plenty of programs from which to choose. Dark Sky Project is all about learning and sharing their enthusiasm for the universe, and the science that gets us there.

Stargazing Video

Silver River Stargazing & Astrophotography Tours

Experience 100% pure darkness on our 25,000 acre farmland right in Tekapo, within the boundaries of the gold rated Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. 1.5-hour stargazing tours (infants & kids welcome) where the guide will take you a journey through the southern sky using laser pointers & powerful 14” Celestron telescopes, and a digital picture of you under stars which is yours to keep. Low ‘people to telescope’ ratio on both stargazing and astrophotography tours.

Tekapo Photo

Tekapo Photo

Making night photography accessible to everyone, with workshops designed for both novice and intermediate photographers eager to unlock the secrets of capturing the light after the sun sets.
Discover how to capture the brightness of the night and paint with light against the darkness, as you delve into astro photography techniques that will allow you to craft extraordinary nocturnal images.

 

Tekapo Springs © Elizabeth Pitcorn

Tekapo Star Gazing

The ultimate in stellar relaxation, guided hot pools and star gazing experience with Tekapo Springs Stargazing. Learn about the southern skies with a guide and telescopes then lie under the stars on a floating hammock in 38 degree hot pool!

Billy The Bard © Billy

Billy The Bard

Local character, Billy the Bard entertains visitors at dusk on the shores of Lake Tekapo with story, poetry, stargazing and song. Hear of local legends past and present. See the stars as they appear in the night sky during this stary-telling busk. Welcome one and all to the Tekapo Solar Circle each fine eve. Long weekends and holiday periods; times change with the season – check Facebook page for updates. Dress warm, bring a blanket, a dram and ya gran! Attendance by koha/donation.