Stargazing: Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Lake Tekapo is situated in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Located only a 3-hour drive from Christchurch, the township faces north across the remarkable turquoise lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Part of an International Dark Sky Reserve, the town is regarded as the ultimate spot for stargazing in the southern hemisphere.

For decades, astronomers and travellers with a passion for astrology have been coming to Lake Tekapo to witness the beauty of the starry night sky. The Southern Lights, equivalent to the Northern Lights, can be seen from this mountainous town. Best between April and September, Lake Tekapo is known for its clear nights and lack of light pollution, making it a great viewing destination for the symphony of colours in the sky.

If you’re planning to visit Lake Tekapo, be sure to check out the many guided tours on offer