Join us for an unforgettable stargazing adventure with the Crater Experience in Lake Takapō (Tekapo) - located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the clearest and darkest skies on Earth. This guided experience takes place in our purpose-built observation craters, specially designed to shelter you from wind and light pollution, allowing for exceptional viewing conditions and an intimate connection to the stars above.
Over 75 minutes, our expert guides will lead you on a journey through the southern night sky. Starting with your naked eye, you’ll begin to see the stars in a whole new way as guides point out constellations and celestial features using handheld lasers. Then, with the help of high-powered telescopes, you’ll explore deep-sky objects like star clusters, distant galaxies, and neighbouring planets - every night reveals something new.
Throughout the experience, you'll gain fascinating insights from both Māori and Western perspectives, deepening your understanding of the universe and your place within it. Whether you're an astronomy enthusiast or a curious traveller, the Crater Experience offers a personal and accessible way to witness the beauty and mystery of the night sky.
Ideal for those wanting a shorter or more accessible tour than the Summit Experience, this immersive evening is the perfect addition to your Takapō visit. You'll leave with a greater appreciation for the stars - and memories that last long after the skies fade to daylight.
What to Expect
Location
Cowan’s Private Observatory, Lake Takapō
Time of Day
Various tour times in the evening after twilight, 7 days a week.
Stargazing
Using 14” telescopes, or observatory dome, and with the naked eye.
Length of Tour
75 minutes
Minimum age
Age 5 years and above.
You’ll never forget New Zealand’s best stargazing experience – so book now!
Whether you're in Takapō, Twizel, or anywhere in the South Island, our stargazing experience promises to be a highlight of your New Zealand adventure. So, grab a jacket, bring your curiosity, and join us under the stars for an evening you won't forget!
Tour Itinerary
Check In
Check in at Dark Sky Project base 20 minutes prior to tour departure.
Dress Warmly
Please layer warm clothing ahead of your tour.
Transport from Base
We’ll take you on the 5-minute drive to Cowan’s Private Observatory.
Stargazing
Discover the cosmos as you stargaze with the naked eye (guided by lasers), 14” telescopes, and through our observatory dome.
Transport back to Base
We’ll drive you back to where you started at the Dark Sky Project base.
Crater Experience Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Crater Experience
Join us at Dark Sky Project at 1 Motuariki Lane, 20 minutes before your Crater Experience starts. (Get Google Maps directions here.) We'll whisk you away in a coach to Cowan's Observatory for a night of unforgettable stargazing.
Layer up! Even in summer, it gets chilly under the stars. Think thermal wear, long pants, and sturdy shoes. In winter, warm clothing, snow jackets, gloves, and hats. No light-up shoes or clothing, please. The only lights you’ll want to see are in the sky.
Absolutely! It's a great outing for families with kids aged 5 and up. For a more comfortable experience with little ones, consider our earlier tours.
We aim to accommodate everyone. Let us know your accessibility needs when booking, and we'll make the necessary arrangements.
For our Crater Experience, wheelchair users can participate; however, they will need to follow the bus in their private vehicle to reach the site. If you have any specific accessibility needs or questions, feel free to contact us in advance so we can assist with your visit.
If the skies aren't clear, you can still get a stargazing experience by trying our indoor Virtual Stargazing Experience.
Our night sky is ever-changing, so each tour is unique. Our guides will showcase the best celestial sights of the evening, tailoring the experience to what’s visible on that particular night.
The visibility of the Milky Way and Southern Lights depends on the sky's clarity and light conditions. While we can't guarantee specific sights, every clear night brings its own cosmic magic.
The skies in Takapō dazzle all year round, but winter months often bring clearer, darker skies, perfect for stargazing. However, every season has its own charm under the stars.
You can! Just remember, spots fill up fast, so it's better to book early to avoid missing out.
Feel free to capture memories, but please keep your camera's flash off to maintain the dark environment. Our guides can even give you tips on astrophotography!