Call us for assistance 0403 638 305 – Whats App +61 401 406 102
- South Island
From AUD $125
Must do
All year
Lake Tekapo
10-99
Eco-friendly
All year
Lake Tekapo
10-99
Eco-friendly
Start Location:
1 Motuariki Lane, 7999 Lake Tekapo
Departure Time:
Various times throughout the year, depending on time of sunset.
Duration:
Allow 2 hours
Free date changes:
Subject to availability
A guided stargazing tourStargazing using 14” telescopes, the observatory dome, and the naked eyeReturn coach transportationExtreme cold weather (ECW) jacket to keep you warm at the mountain’s peakGST (Tax)Join the Lake Tekapo Stargazing Tour and explore the cosmos from New Zealand’s only professional research observatory. Located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, this tour offers a rare and exclusive glimpse of the galaxy. The summit of Mount John, standing at 1,029 meters, provides an unmatched vantage point for stargazing.
The skies over Lake Tekapo are renowned for their clarity and darkness, making it the perfect spot for stargazing. As you gaze up at the night sky, you’ll be surrounded by world-renowned observatory domes and cutting-edge research. This unique setting adds an extra layer of wonder to your celestial journey.
Our expert astronomy guides will lead you through the cosmos, starting with naked-eye observations. Using handheld lasers, they will point out significant celestial sights, helping you develop your stargazing skills. As you delve deeper into the night sky, you will use high-powered telescopes, including a 16” telescope in our private observatory dome, to explore the incredible Milky Way, distant planets, star clusters, and even far-off galaxies.
Every night sky reveals something new. Whether it’s the vibrant colours of the Milky Way, the intricate details of star clusters, or the faint glow of a distant galaxy, each experience on the Lake Tekapo Stargazing Tour is unique. The ever-changing night sky ensures that no two tours are the same, providing endless opportunities for discovery.
Lake Tekapo, or Takapō as known by the Ngāi Tahu ancestors, is a region rich in history and culture. The tour supports the revitalization of Māori place names and provides a deeper understanding of the connection between the land and the sky. This blend of cultural heritage and scientific exploration makes the Lake Tekapo Stargazing Tour a truly enriching experience.
The Lake Tekapo Stargazing Tour is more than just a night under the stars. It is a journey through time and space, guided by knowledgeable experts in a setting unmatched anywhere in the world. From the cutting-edge research facilities to the pristine night skies, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with the cosmos.
VANZ TRAVEL team
Mickael say: I had the most amazing night on the Lake Tekapo Stargazing Tour! Seeing the Milky Way and distant galaxies through powerful telescopes was like stepping into a sci-fi movie. Totally mind-blowing and super educational!
Pending
Please wear strong, sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain with minimal lighting. Glowing, flashing, or light-up shoes or clothing are not permitted. We recommend wearing the following:
Summer (November – March): Thermal wear, long pants, socks, sneakers, jersey, jacket, and hat.
Winter (April – October): Thermal wear, warm long pants, woollen socks, hiking boots or sturdy footwear that covers the ankle, jersey, snow jacket, gloves, scarf, and hat.
Please be aware that meals are not included in this tour.
No prior astronomy knowledge is necessary; our experienced guides will customise the content based on your group’s interests and knowledge level. Each session includes plenty of time for questions and answers to enhance your understanding.
Warm clothing is essential for our outdoor evening experiences, regardless of the season. Temperatures can vary, and wind speed can affect how cold it feels, sometimes dropping below zero due to wind chill.
Guests must check in at the Customer Service Counter 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Please be aware that if you arrive late and miss your departure, you are not eligible for a refund or other compensation. To rebook, you will need to pay the full cost of the new booking.
We will then transport you to the Mount John Observatory, your gateway to the stars. The Summit Experience is family-friendly, welcoming children aged 10 and above. Guests should be comfortable walking 100 meters on a gravel incline and climbing a few steps in the dark.
After the tour, we will take you back by bus to the Dark Sky Project base, where your adventure started.
Photography is allowed during the tour, but please ensure that the flash is turned off, as bright lights can interfere with the scientific work at the observatory. If you need tips on the best settings for astrophotography, our knowledgeable guides, many of whom are avid astrophotographers, will be happy to help.
To reduce light pollution, guests are not allowed to use or bring any white lights, including LCD screens, flash photography, illuminated mobile phones, flashlights, torches, or light-up shoes.
If the weather is bad, we offer a full refund, or you have the option to reschedule or receive an open-dated voucher for future use.
Amendments can be made up to 48 hours before your pre-booked tour time, subject to availability. If you change your mind or need to cancel for any other reason, a cancellation fee will apply according to VANZ Travel’s terms and conditions available on our website.
Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the check-in time are non-refundable.
Please note that the card fee is non-refundable.
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