Dark Sky Project

The Dark Sky Project, formerly known as Earth & Sky, is located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in the Mackenzie District of New Zealand's South Island.

The reserve is one of the world's best places for stargazing and is a UNESCO Astronomy and World Heritage site. The reserve is comprised of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin, which is one of the quietest spots on the planet yet has one of the busiest night skies in the universe2. The Dark Sky Project offers a range of stargazing and observatory experiences designed to connect visitors to the night skies, igniting a lifelong passion for dark sky preservation and what lies above4.The Dark Sky Experience is a multi-media installation that brings science, Maori heritage, and fascinating installations together in a 'Big Bang' of awe and wonder. The experience is designed to be a treat for the senses and is a great way to learn about the night sky. The Dark Sky Project also offers evening tours at tehiwai – University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory, where visitors can explore the pristine night skies.The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is a perfect place to protect and honor the traditions of the Maori, who used the night sky to navigate to the island and integrated astronomy and star lore into their culture and daily lives. The aesthetic, spiritual, and cultural values attached to the reserve have inspired expression in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and written and oral literature.The Dark Sky Project is a world leader in astro-tourism experiences and is proud to be regarded as leaders in astro-tourism and stargazing experiences4. Visitors to the Dark Sky Project can expect to be connected to the night skies, igniting a lifelong passion for dark sky preservation and what lies above. The Legendary Mackenzie region offers visitors a chance to step into the great wide open and discover New Zealand's highest mountains, longest glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands, and clearest starry skies.