Phone: +64 (0)3 6806960 Fax: +64 (0)3 6806950
About Earth & Sky
Our goal is to establish a World Heritage StarLight Reserve in the Lake Tekapo / Aoraki Mount Cook area in the foreseeable future so that young and old can utilise the Mount John Observatory's programmes and facilities to fully enjoy the night sky and learn more about astronomy.
We're shedding too much light on the situation
Established in 1965, the Mount John Observatory is the principal site for Astronomy research in New Zealand. It is also the most beautiful, easily accessible observatory in the world. Situated one thousand feet above Lake Tekapo and only eighteen minutes driving time from town it has an uninterrupted 360° panorama of giant mountains, lakes, rivers, ancient glacial deposits, vast tussock grasslands and many other attractions — plus it sits below one of the clearest skies in New Zealand. As well as the sealed access road there is a very popular public walkway linking Mount John with the village and lake below.
The StarLight Reserve initiative aims to protect and control the amount of ambient light surrounding this facility so that people of all ages can learn about the night sky in order to better understand and appreciate the environment, both above and around them. We heartily encourage you to see the majestic night skies that the region has to offer by joining one of our tours, either at Mount John or Cowan's Hill.
This area embraces the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park within the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site and has the highest mountains in New Zealand. It has a pristine, unpolluted dark sky and is home to the Mount John Observatory.
A bright future for dark skies
The Mackenzie District Council of New Zealand is leading the way with its initiatives to protect our dark sky through its Planning Regulations requiring controlled and responsible use of lighting. It is a partner in the efforts to ensure the night sky is protected for future generations.