Big Sky Stargazing

Mount Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand - perfect for viewing the night sky!

In June 2012 the Aoraki Mackenzie region, encompassing Mount Cook Village, was approved as one of only a few International Dark Sky Reserves (IDSR) worldwide, meaning the darkness of our night skies is almost unbeatable!

Begin with an introduction and orientation in our Digital Dome Planetarium highlighting the unique features of our southern night sky.

Mandarin headphone translations available for planetarium presentation.

Our informative astronomy guides then take you on a short drive (transport provided) to our outdoor stargazing site. Use telescopes, astronomy binoculars and the naked eye to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice, identifying and exploring different elements of the spectacular southern sky.