Experience the Wonders of the Night Sky at Big Sky Stargazing
Discover the celestial wonders at Big Sky Stargazing in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where the stars shine brighter than anywhere else in New Zealand.
Nestled in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Big Sky Stargazing offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the celestial beauty of New Zealand's night sky. With minimal light pollution, this destination is perfect for tourists eager to explore the stars, planets, and the majestic Milky Way in all its glory. Ideal for both seasoned astronomers and casual stargazers, it's an unforgettable experience that showcases the natural wonders of the universe.
A brief summary to Big Sky Stargazing
- Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park 89 Terrace Road, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, 7999, NZ
- +6434351809
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 7:30 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your stargazing experience in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Dress in layers to stay warm; temperatures can drop significantly at night.
- Arrive early to enjoy the stunning sunset views of the surrounding mountains.
- Check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies for optimal stargazing.
- Bring a camera with a good night setting to capture the beauty of the stars.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park via State Highway 8. Once you arrive in the park, follow the signs to the Hermitage Hotel, which is located at 89 Terrace Road. Big Sky Stargazing is organized by the Hermitage Hotel, so park your car in the hotel parking lot. The stargazing sessions begin at 7:30 PM, so arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a bus to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park from either Christchurch or Queenstown. The bus will drop you off at the Hermitage Hotel. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to the hotel lobby where you can check in for the Big Sky Stargazing experience. Make sure to confirm the bus schedule as services may vary, especially in off-peak seasons.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby within Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, you can walk to Big Sky Stargazing. The Hermitage Hotel is well-marked, and the walk from most nearby accommodations should take no more than 15 minutes. Follow the signs toward the hotel, keeping in mind that the stargazing sessions begin promptly at 7:30 PM.
Discover more about Big Sky Stargazing
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Hermitage Hotel
0.0 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Hermitage Hotel, your gateway to the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
0.0 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Mt Cook Chalets
0.2 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at the cozy Mt Cook Chalets, your perfect alpine getaway.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook at Aoraki Alpine Lodge, your perfect base for exploration and relaxation in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Mt Cook Village Public shelter
0.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Mt Cook Village Public Shelter, your gateway to exploring the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Mt Cook Lodge & Motels, where adventure meets comfort in stunning natural surroundings.
Aoraki Court
0.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at Aoraki Court, the perfect base for your alpine adventures.
Aoraki Mount Cook Village
0.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Aoraki Mount Cook Village, the gateway to New Zealand's highest peaks and stunning landscapes.
Haka House Aoraki Mt Cook
0.8 km
Discover stunning landscapes and adventure at Haka House Aoraki Mt Cook, your perfect base in New Zealand's breathtaking national park.
White Horse Hill Campground
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a true gem for nature lovers.
The Second Swing Bridge
3.1 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Cook National Park while crossing the iconic Second Swing Bridge, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mueller Lake
3.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
Mount Cook Airport
4.9 km
Experience the stunning beauty of New Zealand's Southern Alps at Mount Cook Airport, your gateway to adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
Sefton Bivouac
5.2 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
Hooker Lake
6.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
0.0 km
Discover the legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary and explore the majestic landscapes of New Zealand at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
Glacier Explorers
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park with Glacier Explorers, where adventure meets nature's magnificence.
Hooker Trail Head
0.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Hooker Trail Head in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a hiker's paradise surrounded by majestic mountains and glacial lakes.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and adventures awaiting you at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre.
Southern Alps Guiding
0.2 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park with expert guides at Southern Alps Guiding, where adventure meets breathtaking beauty.
The Old Mountaineers Cafe
0.2 km
Discover culinary delights at The Old Mountaineers Cafe, nestled in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Tasman Glacier Helihike
0.4 km
Embark on an unforgettable helihike adventure over the Tasman Glacier, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Governors Bush Walk
0.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Governors Bush Walk in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where scenic views and tranquility await every visitor.
Red Tarns Viewpoint
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Red Tarns Viewpoint in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes meet serene alpine lakes.
Red Tarns Track Trail Head
0.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Red Tarns Track Trail Head in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a hiker's paradise surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
Hooker Valley track
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Hooker Valley Track and witness the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.
Alpine Memorial
1.6 km
Discover the Alpine Memorial in Canterbury, a serene tribute to nature’s power and beauty, offering breathtaking views and reflective paths.
Lake Müller Lookout
1.9 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Lake Müller Lookout in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Kea Point
2.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and natural beauty at Kea Point, a scenic highlight in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Mueller Hut
2.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Mueller Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and stunning mountain views.
Essential places to dine
Alpine Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
0.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Tasman Delta Cafe
20.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Tasman Delta Cafe surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
The Last Kitchen
30.2 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
30.3 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
30.4 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
30.4 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
30.5 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
31.2 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
38.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
39.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
39.0 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
39.1 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
39.2 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
39.3 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
0.1 km
Experience mailing services in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and adventure.
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
30.3 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
30.3 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Cafe Nevé
30.3 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
30.3 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
30.4 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
30.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
30.4 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
30.6 km
Explore the essentials at NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier, your trusted spot for mailing services amid New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Fox Glacier Community Centre
30.6 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
EuniQ Patchwork
30.7 km
Discover the art of quilting at EuniQ Patchwork, the premier quilt shop in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering a rich selection of fabrics and crafting supplies.
Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
30.9 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation in the heart of Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
33.2 km
Explore ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery for authentic New Zealand art and souvenirs that capture the beauty of the Fox Glacier region.
Matheson Cafe
33.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of local cuisine and breathtaking views at Matheson Cafe, next to stunning Lake Matheson.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
35.0 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
0.0 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
3.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
30.2 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
30.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
30.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
30.4 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
30.5 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
30.8 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Moa Bar
39.2 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
The Hard Antler
85.9 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Wonderland Makarora Lodge
88.5 km
Discover cozy lodging, delightful dining, and outdoor adventure at Wonderland Makarora Lodge in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
Cave Arms Tavern
94.1 km
Discover the warm ambiance and delicious cuisine at Cave Arms Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cave, New Zealand.
