GO NZ: The best places to go stargazing in New Zealand
27 Apr, 2021 04:00 AM
8 minutes to read
Stargazing at Castlepoint, in the Wairarapa. The region is on track to become the largest Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand. Photo / Daniel Rood, Supplied.
Stargazing at Castlepoint, in the Wairarapa. The region is on track to become the largest Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand. Photo / Daniel Rood, Supplied. For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.
– Vincent Van Gogh
As the nights get longer, our night sky gets brighter. Our daylight activities may shrink, but we gain more in the constellations.
Mikey Mackinven/Stuff
Waiheke Island’s local groups are keen to protect views like this one by attaining international dark sky status. (file photo) She said visitors flocked to Waiheke to see the beaches and vineyards but the accreditation could spark a gradual shift towards eco-tourism and sustainability. “If people come to look at the starry skies, it’s a different kind of people than the 20-somethings that have come here for a hen party.” Research shows bright lighting at night is harmful to human health and impacts on wildlife, Davies said. “Turtles come to the shore to lay their eggs and the baby turtles, when they hatch, use moonlight to navigate their way back to the ocean,” she said.
Get them a… hot pool experience
Onsen Hot Pools/Supplied
You can t go wrong with a gift voucher for Queenstown’s Onsen Hot Pools. Sure, fancy soaps and body lotions are a nice treat. But the memories of a soak in a hot tub in a scenic spot will last much longer than a bath bomb. Queenstown’s Onsen Hot Pools (onsen.co.nz) won’t fail to impress – perched on a cliff overlooking the Shotover River, every pool boasts breathtaking views. You can purchase gift vouchers on the website starting from $87.50 for an hour-long soak for one adult. Another great option is Secret Spot Hot Tubs (secretspot.nz), nestled in the Waipā Valley just outside Rotorua. Guests can soak in one of 12 private cedar hot tubs, nestled in the trees on the edge of Whakarewarewa Forest. Gift vouchers are also available here, starting from $41 for a 45-minute soak for one adult.