AAT Kings Reveals Top 2025 Stargazing Experiences in Australia and New Zealand

Friday, Jul 25, 2025 0

Showcasing several of the best dark skies viewing conditions in the Southern Hemisphere

AAT Kings, the leading Australia and New Zealand guided holiday tour operator is excited to reveal their top 2025 stargazing experiences with several destinations being recognized by the International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) program which will appeal to astrotourism clients. IDSP was founded in 2001, which certifies protected areas, parks and communities around the globe. These places protect and preserve dark sites in these ecologically sensitive areas through education and effective lighting policies including environmentally responsible outdoor lighting.

“Noctourism is one of the hottest trends for 2025 and some of the most stunning stargazing experiences are located in Australia and New Zealand and clients are traveling from across the globe to witness these starry night skies.” says Ben Hall, CEO, AAT Kings Group. “Our unforgettable guided journeys showcase the celestial spectacles of our Southern Hemisphere which will appeal to nature lovers and astrophiles who are seeking nighttime travel experiences,” he adds.

Mackenzie Region, South Island, New Zealand – Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

On the 7-day Contrasts of New Zealand guided vacation, majestic mountains are the backdrop enroute to Lake Tekapo with is turquoise waters. This stunning destination is breathtaking and remote. The lack of light pollution showcases dazzling stargazing at the UNESCO World Heritage listed, Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and it is the largest reserve in the Southern Hemisphere. Clients will marvel at the celestial experience offered at a purpose-built observation crater with expert astronomy guides. The Crater Experience located in Lake Takapō (Tekapo) offers one of the darkest and clearest skies in the world with the assistance of high-powered telescopes which provides incredible views of distant galaxies and star clusters. The guides will also provide both Māori and Western perspectives. The reserve has received global recognition as a centre for astrotourism with its vistas and preserve the dark skies of the Mackenzie region for future generations. This excursion to Aoraki Dark Sky Reserve is also available on the 18-day Contrasts of Australia and New Zealand and the 22-day Highlights of Australia & New Zealand journeys.

Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, Australia – An accredited International Dark Sky Sanctuary

On the 8-day South Australian Outback Adventure, clients will enjoy some the world’s best stargazing conditions in the Southern Hemisphere at the Ningana Imaging Observatory with their state of the art Digital Astro Experience. With it International Dary Sky accreditation, their nighttime skies are free from light and atmospheric pollution. Guests will enjoy the relaxing space to view the splendors of the solar system that are light years away. These Observatory tours have also garnered Advanced ecotourism accreditation.

Alice Springs, Australia- Galaxy Gazing at the Earth Sanctuary Space Observatory

On the 15-day Outback Adventure, when exploring Alice Springs, guests will enjoy the Earth Sanctuary Space Observatory and deep sky telescope while stargazing at some of the best views of the galaxy surrounded by the Outback’s dark sky nights. The sanctuary is one of only three places in the country that offer celestial viewing without light pollution or moonlight interference with star visibility. Their local astronomer will share the magic of the constellations and zodiacs with a laser-guided journey through the southern night sky.