An exclusive stargazing spot
Your experience takes place in our secluded observation craters, sheltered from wind and light pollution. In this special place it's just you, the stars, and the best view of the endless southern skies.
A personal tour of the stars
Over 75 minutes, you'll explore the stars with both the naked eye and powerful telescopes. You're on a personal tour of the cosmos, without ever leaving the beautiful heart of the South Island.
Every night offers a new spectacle. From the Milky Way to distant galaxies beyond, our guides use handheld lasers to show you the best of the evolving night sky. They'll help you discover the stars and planets, and understand what it all means. The stars will never seem more within your reach!
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!
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.
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.
Don’t worry: if the skies aren’t clear, you’ll still get a stargazing experience, just in a different way. We’ll switch you over to our indoor Virtual Stargazing Experience, with a partial refund of your Crater Experience ticket. Check our Terms and Conditions for more details.
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!