Night Awe

Under Dark Skies, Wonder Awaits

Experience Akaroa's breathtaking night sky on a guided small group stargazing tour.

STARGAZING AT ITS DARKEST

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Southern Hemisphere's night sky

  • Renowned for its incredible clarity and darkness

  • Rivaling some of New Zealand's most famous stargazing destinations.

  • Your premier destination for stargazing near Christchurch.

EXPERT GUIDANCE

Join us for an evening of wonder and discovery, surrounded by Akaroa's majestic landscape

  • Explore the cosmos through our telescopes, binoculars, and naked-eye viewing.

  • Learn fascinating insights into astronomy, Māori mythology, and receive expert tips for amateur stargazers.

INTIMATE SMALL GROUP

Our small group sizes ensure personalised attention, making Night Awe perfect for

  • Families, couples, and anyone seeking a unique Akaroa stargazing experience.

  • Only 90 minutes drive from Christchurch

PRICING

  • Child (5 - 15) $59

  • Adult (16+) $99

  • Senior (65+) $89

  • Student $79

  • Family (2 adults + 2 children) $279

Please note that children under 5s join us for free!

DEPARTURE TIME

Departure times vary with sunset, see below schedule for estimated starting times.

  • December-January: 10:30PM, 12:30AM

  • February: 10:00PM, 12:00AM

  • March: 9:30PM, 11:30PM

  • April-August: 7:30PM, 9:30PM

  • September: 8:00PM, 10:00PM

  • October: 9:30PM, 11:30PM

  • November: 10:00PM, 12:00AM

MEETING POINT

Night Awe starts at Akaroa Heritage Park, 280 Long Bay Road, Akaroa 7583

Google Maps link

DURATION

90 minutes

GROUP SIZE

No minimum, Maximum 10 participants

INCLUDED

  • State-of-the-art telescope for breathtaking views

  • Binoculars for closer looks

  • Take home a lasting memory: a digital photo of you under the stars.

  • Hot drink to keep you warm and cozy

  • Comfortable outdoor seating area to relax and gaze

  • Blankets for snuggling up

NOT INCLUDED

  • Transfers, pick-ups, & drop-offs

  • Food

WHAT TO BRING

  • Comfortable shoes

  • Warm clothing

  • Water bottle

  • Camera and smartphone

Check our online booking calendar for your preferred date and secure your spot for an unforgettable Night Awe!

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for further details, including our cancellation policy.

Guests observing through Astronz binoculars
Guests looking up next to RC8 telescope, with Milky Way high up in the sky.
Couple posing next to RC8 telescope at Akaroa Heritage Park
Woman observing through RC8 telescope with partner gazing up to the Southern Night Sky

WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “This was my second visit. I enjoyed the first so much I returned a few weeks later with friends . Luca takes us to a beautiful place on the Peninsula to view the night sky . He gives great explanations of complex stuff and chances to view specific stars with his telescope. A highlight was the star nursery / Orion Nebula .All the time, we could hear a ruru calling nearby - all magical. All the time, we could hear a ruru calling nearby - all magical.”

    — Written 13 December 2024

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “What a night, the heavens were at their best! Luca our guide was so impressive! Not only did we get to see Uranus for the first time ever from a telescope, Jupiter, Saturn were doing their best to show off. The jewel box, the Magellan clouds. It was awe inspiring, with at a great date night. Not only did we get to see the heavens, Luca explained light pollution and how it effects out daily life and the flora and fauna we need to look after on this planet as the custodians we should all be. Thank you Luca we will be back you outdid yourself and other tours by 100!”

    — Written 8 December 2024

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “This tour is a must for anyone curious about the stars or the night sky. Luca has an amazing knowledge of the southern sky and makes the experience most impressive. We were lucky that during our tour, not only did we get to see some incredible stars but the Aurora Australis put on quite a show as well. It was remarkable how much we were able to see and learn due to this tour being so well organised. Thank you Luca and Akaroa Stargazing for a night we'll never forget.”

    — Written 12 October 2024

  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

    “I had an absolutely outstanding experience with Luca looking at the stars from the Heritage Park on Akaroa. To my amazement he offered the tour even though I was here on my own at a quiet time of the year. His knowledge and enthusiasm were both exceptional, I learned such a lot and it was thoroughly enjoyable throughout. Hot drinks, blankets and a chair were all available but I was so captivated I only needed the blanket! The telescope was so powerful I got to see a range of phenomena that were explained to me beautifully, ending with Saturn and the moon. I highly recommend the tour to anyone with or without an interest in the night sky as it was definitely awe-inspiring and very high quality. .”

    — Written 14 October 2024

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