Explore the night sky in the World's largest Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve
Welcome to the world's largest Gold Status International Dark Sky Reserve.
At 4367sq km, the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve lies in the heart of the National Park. Join us on the only stargazing tour in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Take a mesmerizing journey through the cosmos as you explore the wonders of New Zealand's night sky; home to planets, stars and a whole other world we only dream about. Our resident astronomy guides will take you on a 90-minute tour of the night sky through high powered telescopes along with discussing incredible features visible to the naked eye.
Available on a clear night, the tour takes place close to the Hermitage hotel. Guests are shuttled to our base which is perfectly set up to enjoy the night sky. Here they will witness the darkness as it comes alive with the stars framed by the beautiful mountains of the Southern Alps.
Our Big Sky Stargazing tours are available in English and Mandarin. Please select the relevant tour on the booking page.
Please note: the light of the Moon affects the viewing conditions and visibility of objects in the night sky. This is most significant on the few days on either side of the Full Moon phase. We recommend booking around the time of a New Moon if possible. You can check the moon calendar here, please note the sky will be bright for a few days before and after a full moon.
Big sky stargazing Mandarin
FAQs
Can you see the Milky Way in Aoraki/Mount Cook?
Yes. On clear nights, the Milky Way is often visible to the naked eye and appears in extraordinary detail due to the region's exceptionally low light pollution.
Does the moon affect stargazing conditions?
Yes. The brightness of the Moon can affect visibility of stars and deep-sky objects, particularly during the few days before and after a Full Moon. For the darkest skies and best viewing conditions, we recommend booking your stargazing experience around the time of a New Moon where possible. You can check the moon calendar here, please note the sky will be bright for a few days before and after a full moon.
Is Big Sky Stargazing suitable for children?
The minimum age we take on Big Sky Stargazing is 8 years. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Is Big Sky Stargazing worth it?
Big Sky Stargazing offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the darkest skies in the world. With expert guides, powerful telescopes and the spectacular backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, many guests describe it as one of the highlights of their South Island journey.
What happens if it is cloudy?
As weather conditions in an alpine environment can change quickly, outdoor stargazing is not always possible. If your experience is cancelled due to weather, guests will join our Indoor Stargazing experience at the Planetarium and receive a 75% refund.
What is the best time of year for stargazing in Mount Cook?
Stargazing is available year-round. Winter offers long nights and often excellent viewing conditions, while summer provides comfortable temperatures and opportunities to view different seasonal constellations.
What should I wear?
Temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, even during summer. We recommend warm layers, a jacket, long pants and closed footwear.
Why is Aoraki/Mount Cook one of the best places in New Zealand for stargazing?
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park sits within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, recognised for its exceptionally dark skies and minimal light pollution. Combined with clear alpine air, high mountain surroundings and remote location, these conditions create an extraordinary environment for observing stars, planets and distant galaxies.
