Experience the Enchantment of the Dark Sky Project in Lake Tekapo
Explore the wonders of the universe at Lake Tekapo's Dark Sky Project, offering stargazing tours, dining, and unique shopping experiences.
The Dark Sky Project in Lake Tekapo is a haven for stargazers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Hemisphere's night sky, along with delightful dining options and charming shops.
A brief summary to Dark Sky Project
- 1 Motuariki Ln, Lake Tekapo, 7999, NZ
- +6436806960
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-10 pm
- Thursday 9 am-10 pm
- Friday 9 am-10 pm
- Saturday 9 am-10 pm
- Sunday 9 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Book your stargazing experience in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons to secure your spot.
- Visit the café before your evening tour to enjoy a meal while soaking in the scenic views of Lake Tekapo.
- Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer.
- Consider visiting during a new moon for the best stargazing conditions, as the sky will be darker.
- Check the weather forecast prior to your visit, as clear skies are essential for optimal stargazing.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Mount Cook Village, start by heading south on State Highway 80. Follow this highway for approximately 30 kilometers until you reach the junction with State Highway 8. Turn left onto State Highway 8 and continue for about 45 kilometers. You will see signs for Lake Tekapo. As you enter Lake Tekapo, look for Motuariki Lane on your left. Turn onto Motuariki Lane, and the Dark Sky Project will be located at 1 Motuariki Lane, on your right.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Dark Sky Project via public transportation, take the bus from Mount Cook Village to Lake Tekapo. The bus service operates regularly, and you can check the schedule at the Mount Cook visitor center. The trip takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive in Lake Tekapo, you'll need to walk approximately 1 kilometer to reach the Dark Sky Project. From the bus stop, head east on State Highway 8, then turn left onto Motuariki Lane. The Dark Sky Project will be on your right at 1 Motuariki Lane.
Discover more about Dark Sky Project
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mt John Summit Circuit Track
1.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich wildlife at Mt John Summit Circuit Track, a scenic hiking destination in Tekapo, New Zealand.
Aoraki Mt Cook Scenic Lookout
27.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki Mt Cook Scenic Lookout, where majestic peaks meet serene glacial lakes in the Southern Alps of New Zealand.
Glentanner Park Centre (Mount Cook)
30.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Mount Cook from Glentanner Park Centre, your gateway to outdoor adventures and serene natural landscapes.
The Helicopter Line, Mount Cook
30.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Cook with unforgettable scenic helicopter tours, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural wonders.
Mount Cook view
31.5 km
Experience the majestic beauty of Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery and tranquil lakes.
NZ Alpine Lavender
32.2 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of NZ Alpine Lavender, where vibrant fields and unique lavender products await every visitor.
Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters
38.1 km
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Mount Cook Airport
38.2 km
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Haka House Aoraki Mt Cook
42.2 km
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Aoraki Mount Cook Village
42.2 km
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Tasman Glacier Car Park
42.3 km
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Aoraki Court
42.3 km
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Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
42.4 km
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Mt Cook Village Public shelter
42.5 km
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Aoraki Alpine Lodge
42.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Billy the Bard
0.1 km
Experience the magic of storytelling at Billy the Bard in Lake Tekapo, where enchanting performances and stunning landscapes come together for an unforgettable night.
Lake Tekapo Picnic Bench
0.1 km
Experience the serenity of Lake Tekapo Picnic Bench, a picturesque spot for relaxation and stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Cowans Hill Walkway
0.5 km
Discover the stunning Cowans Hill Walkway in Lake Tekapo, a paradise for hikers and stargazers alike, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
Lake Tekapo Farm Tours
0.5 km
Experience the beauty of Lake Tekapo with engaging farm tours that connect you to New Zealand's rural life and adorable animals.
Tekapo Stargazing
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the night sky at Tekapo Stargazing, a premier destination for celestial wonders in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory
2.3 km
Experience the wonders of the universe at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory in stunning Tekapo, New Zealand, where stargazing dreams come true.
Air Safaris Tekapo
2.9 km
Discover breathtaking aerial views of New Zealand's landscapes with Air Safaris Tekapo's unforgettable helicopter and airplane tours.
Lake McGregor Lookout
7.2 km
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Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
8.0 km
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Alma Historic Cob Cottage
17.1 km
Explore the historical charm of Alma Historic Cob Cottage, a unique glimpse into New Zealand's architectural heritage in Burkes Pass.
Pukaki swing
22.7 km
Soar above the stunning landscapes of Lake Pukaki with the exhilarating Pukaki Swing, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's natural beauty.
Roundhill Ski Area
24.4 km
Experience the thrill of skiing and breathtaking views at Roundhill Ski Area in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
Lake Pukaki Lookout
27.9 km
Experience the captivating beauty of Lake Pukaki Lookout, a serene destination revealing breathtaking views of turquoise waters and majestic mountains.
Tapataia Mahaka Peter's Lookout (Lake Pukaki Viewpoint) (Mount Cook Road)
28.9 km
Discover breathtaking views at Tapataia Mahaka Peter's Lookout, where Lake Pukaki meets the majestic Southern Alps in New Zealand.
Harlan's Gate View
29.8 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Lake Pukaki and Mt. Cook at Harlan's Gate View, a prime destination for breathtaking landscapes in Glentanner, New Zealand.
Essential places to dine
Dark Sky Diner
0.0 km
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Fishtail Authentic Indian & Nepalese
0.1 km
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25 Degrees Burger Bar
0.1 km
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TLV Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience unforgettable dining at TLV Restaurant & Bar in Lake Tekapo - where local flavors meet stunning scenery.
Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Grill
0.2 km
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Jade Palace Resteraunt
0.2 km
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Kohan Restaurant
0.2 km
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Blue Lake Eatery & Bar
0.2 km
Experience culinary delights at Blue Lake Eatery & Bar with stunning views in Lake Tekapo - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Dolce Pizza
0.2 km
Savor delicious pizzas amidst breathtaking views at Dolce Pizza in Lake Tekapo – a must-visit culinary gem!
Jack Rabbit
0.3 km
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The Better Batter NZ
0.4 km
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“Morelea Lakeside”
0.9 km
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Tasman Delta Cafe
30.2 km
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Moraine Lodge - Luxury Wedding and Events Venue
34.5 km
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Moraine Lodge | Fine Dining Restaurant - bookings essential
34.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kiwi Treasures & Information Centre
0.1 km
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Naturally New Zealand Tekapo
0.1 km
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Aotea Gifts Tekapo
0.2 km
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Three Creeks, Vintage Garage Decor
17.0 km
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Urban Infantware
29.5 km
Shop unique and stylish infant clothing at Urban Infantwear in Fairlie, New Zealand, where comfort meets contemporary design for your little ones.
Colab Boutique
29.6 km
Explore Fairlie's Colab Boutique for unique clothing that embodies local style and emerging trends, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
BLANK SPACE
30.0 km
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The Little Red Fox
30.1 km
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Mint Boutique
30.1 km
Explore Mint Boutique in Fairlie for unique clothing and accessories that reflect New Zealand's vibrant style and local craftsmanship.
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop
34.0 km
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Moostique GastroMarket
41.3 km
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Four Square Twizel
41.4 km
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Idstyle
41.9 km
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NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
43.1 km
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AOK Clothing
62.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
39.6 km
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Snowline Bar
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Cave Arms Tavern
51.0 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
70.2 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
70.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
70.3 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
70.4 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
70.5 km
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Sunset Motel
71.0 km
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Grey Way Lounge, Phar Lap Raceway
71.2 km
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Moa Bar
72.6 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 Sail & Anchor Bar & Cafe
75.6 km
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Boiler House
75.7 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Boiler House, Timaru's charming bar offering craft beverages and local flair in the historic Royal Arcade.
No. 8 Wired Bar
75.8 km
Experience the local nightlife at No. 8 Wired Bar in Timaru, where cozy ambiance meets a selection of fine beverages.
Foresized Bar
75.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Foresized Bar in Timaru, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mount Cook Heliski
42.7 km
Discover the exhilarating world of heliskiing at Mount Cook, New Zealand's premier ski resort nestled in stunning alpine beauty.
Tasman Glacier Skiing
42.9 km
Discover the thrill of skiing on the stunning Tasman Glacier nestled in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's alpine paradise.
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
70.8 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand's Fox Glacier at Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels, your base for adventure and relaxation in stunning landscapes.
South Canterbury Club Inc
75.7 km
Discover local culture and community spirit at South Canterbury Club Inc, the heart of social life in Timaru, New Zealand.
Factory Bar And Nightclub
75.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Timaru at Factory Bar And Nightclub, where music and dancing create unforgettable experiences.
Timaru South Cosmopolitan Club
76.0 km
Experience local culture and entertainment at the Timaru South Cosmopolitan Club, where friendly faces and fun await in Timaru.
