Aotea Great Barrier Island is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary only 90 kilometres by plane or ferry from Auckland, New Zealand.

It's one of the best places for stargazing in New Zealand and to discover the magic of the Southern Night Sky with Good Heavens  

Come stargazing with us on the sand dunes of Aotea during a 1.5–2 hour guided Stargazing Experience.

Learn about constellations, Maori and European myths and gaze at the Milky Way and other celestial objects - comfortably seated with blankets and hot drinks.

Stargazing with Good Heavens on Aotea Great Barrier Island

Expect

  • Dark Sky Sanctuary skies, laser pointers, binoculars, a telescope, cosy chairs and close-by parking.
  • Knowledgeable and friendly local guides who personalise this New Zealand stargazing experience.
  • Connection with nature and the universe during a magical seaside experience.

 

Plan Your Visit  

  • Stunning off-grid Aotea is accessed from Auckland by plane (1/2 hour) or ferry (4.5 hours)
  • Stay at least two nights - preferably three or more - for the best chance at clear skies. Full refund if it's cloudy.
  • Check out these YouTube videos for insights and tips from Deb!

 

Note

  • Children under 13 are half price! Our group experiences are most suited to 8-100 year olds
  • Limited spots—book early! Tripzilla named Good Heavens NZ’s #1 stargazing experience.
  • View Tripadvisor reviews for Good Heavens here.
  • Good Heavens offer Private Experiences for special occasions, large groups and families with small children.
  • Moon Walks take place when the moon is large in the sky and moon light shimmers on the ocean.
  • Bespoke stargazing packages are available, incl. flights, accommodation, 4WD car and stargazing experience.
  • What’s visible throughout the year varies. Check our FAQ or email your specific wishes.
  • We always try our best to show you the best stars while you are on island, however, Mother Nature is our boss.
  • If the weather prevents us from going ahead you will be given a full refund.

Contact us: info@goodheavens.co.nz  - Deb and Hilde would love to hear from you and answer your questions!

13 reasons why stargazing on Aotea Great Barrier Island with Good Heavens is so good

  • Friendly, experienced local guides personalise your experience and make it fun and entertaining
  • We can organise stargazing packages including flights, accommodation, and car rental. Easy!
  • The only stargazing experience in New Zealand in the sand dunes overlooking the ocean.
  • Certified spectacular stars: All of Aotea is a Dark Sky Sanctuary - Great for photographers, too!
  • Nature lovers: 60% of Aotea Great Barrier Island is conservation park and beaches are pristine.
  • Bird watchers: many taonga/endangered species can be observed on the island.
  • Water babies: bring your togs for our wonderful beaches and dip into the thermal hot pools, too.
  • Trampers overwhelm: the island has over 100 kilometers of varied and well maintained walking tracks.
  • Explore alternative life styles: Aotea is an off-grid, zero waste island.
  • Art and crafts afficionados: Aotea is an artistic haven with half a dozen quirky galleries.
  • Explore the Southern Hemisphere sky: superb Milky Way core-view from February to November.
  • Moonlovers: watch the Moon shimmer on the ocean during our Moon Walk, around 10 days each month.
  • Easy travel from Auckland: This Dark Sky Sanctuary is only ½ hour by plane from Auckland Airport!

More info about these 13 great reasons here.

Stargazing in New Zealand