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Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, NZ
83% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (162 reviews)
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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

    Highlights

    • Exclusive access to Mount John's peak
    • Expert astronomy guides share knowledge
    • View night sky with powerful telescopes
    • Immerse in stunning surroundings and pristine night skies
    • Glimpse distant galaxies and far-off planets
    • Duration 2 hours
    • Pickup and drop-off included
    • Expert astronomy guide
    • Exclusive access to peak
    • Powerful telescopes provided

    Experience the captivating wonders of the Southern Skies with the Summit Experience at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory. Immerse yourself in the stunning surrounds and pristine night skies as expert guides share the science and stories behind the stars. This exclusive tour offers a one-of-a-kind stargazing experience, complete with sophisticated viewing technologies and breathtaking views. Join us for an awe-inspiring evening of discovery as you uncover the secrets of the universe. Don't miss your chance to be a part of New Zealand's premier astronomy experience. Book now and embark on a journey that will leave you in awe of the beauty and mystery that lies beyond our world.

    At a Glance

    • Free cancellation
    • 1 hours 45 minutes
    • Instant Confirmation
    • Available in Mandarin Chinese, , English
    • Mobile voucher
    • Small Group tour
    • Guided
    • Family friendly

    Featured Reviews

    Very Good (162 reviews)
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    Viator
    gwhiz93
    Aug 24
    We arrived a little early and could wander around the gift shop, which actually had some really nice and unique things for sale. There’s a small interactive space you can play around with bottle rocket and some other things as well gawk at a big telescope. They have big warm jackets you can wear and take up Mt John, which we needed, it was freezing, would recommend bringing some gloves too. The drive up was entertaining with Philipa the driver talking about the area and the researchers, as well as just being hilarious. The guides on the mountain were really knowledgeable, they explained different consolations and then moved onto looking through a few different telescopes and a few different stars. It was really cool to see the planets and nebula, and we could also see so many stars with just our eyes. Recommend for a different experience and to learn new things, and just see some cool stuff!
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    lachlantm
    Aug 24
    A mesmerising experience on top of Mount John. Our guides were full of knowledge, explained big concepts in an understandable way, and showed us the moon and the stars in a magnificent light. Absolutely recommend!
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    Viator
    sparky536
    Aug 24
    Disappointment is an understatement. A perfectly clear night at Lake Tekapo, perfect for star gazing, and our trip was cancelled at the last minute because their bus is apparently incapable of getting up the hill when it's icy. Maybe it's me, but I find this ridiculous. Snow and ice are regular occurrences in the winter here, so it was hardly exceptional, in fact highly predictable. This experience is supposed to be the showcase for exploring New Zealand's dark sky and it seems pathetic that they don't have the appropriate vehicles to get you up there when it's cold. It's all very well getting a refund but having been here many times in the past when skies have not been clear enough to see stars, to be cancelled on a perfectly clear night was a major let-down and unless there is a compelling explanation, totally inexcusable.
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    Terence_Low
    Aug 24
    A must do - the summit experience introduced us to a world that we knew so little about and brought to life the realization of how vast our galaxy is and a world that stretches beyond imagination.
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    KiwiWanderers02
    May 24
    We chose to do the 10pm viewing and we’re not disappointed. After a short bus ride to the top we were met by our guide for the night who gave us a briefing then off up the hill to the first level where the aurora could be seen, a first for us which was great! Then on up the hill to the top where two telescopes were set up adjacent to a much bigger indoor telescope. Great viewing was had by all with a good clear sky. Our guide was very knowledgeable and shared lots of information with us. While there the breeze came up so we appreciated the extra warm long jackets that had been provided. Back on the bus and to Te Anau after midnight - well pleased with the entire experience. If you are interested in the night sky, this is a must do and we highly recommend it. Keep looking up!
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    Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

    Experience the breathtaking night skies at Mt John Observatory with expert guides, powerful telescopes, and stunning views of the Southern Hemisphere.

    Included

    • inclusion
      Exclusive access to Mount John Observatory summit
    • inclusion
      Telescope viewing through advanced observatory equipment
    • inclusion
      Extreme Cold Weather jackets provided
    • inclusion
      Return transport from Tekapo township
    • inclusion
      Expert astronomy guides (English & Mandarin)
    • inclusion
      Guided naked-eye stargazing with laser pointers

    Excluded

    • exclusion
      Meals and snacks
    • exclusion
      Hotel pickup/drop-off

    Meeting Point

    Meeting point

    1 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo 7999 , New Zealand

    End point

    End Point

    Meeting point

    1 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo 7999 , New Zealand

    End point

    What to expect

    1

    Dark Sky Project

    Dark Sky Project

    Check-in with the Dark Sky Project team in Lake Tekapo, and be transported up to the summit of Mount John, 1029m above Tekapo and overlooking the surrounding mountains and lakes.

    Duration 15 minutes
    Admission Admission Included
    2

    University of Canterbury Mt. John Observatory

    University of Canterbury Mt. John Observatory

    Enjoy a mountaintop stargazing experience from the Summit of Mount John. With exclusive access to the summit, your expert astronomy guide will provide an educational and entertaining experience, deep in the heart of the Aoraki McKenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the largest Gold standard reserve in the world. Guides will use a combination of naked-eye stargazing with powerful telescopes, all surrounded by the University of Canterbury research centre, an internationally recognised, world class facility.

    Duration 105 minutes

    The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

    Additional Information

    • Additional information
      A maximum of 22 people per trip time
    • Additional information
      Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Additional information
      If weather prevents the tour from operating, an alternate indoor experience may be offered as an alternative
    • Additional information
      If you are booking a time after midnight please double check the date you are booking
    • Additional information
      Language - You are required to speak the language of the tour due to Health & Safety purposes, if you cannot speak the language, you will not be allowed to join the tour.
    • Additional information
      Not recommended with travelers with mobility issues
    • Additional information
      Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    Provided by Dark Sky Project

    What our experts say

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      Dress warmly; temperatures drop at night.
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      Bring a camera for stunning night shots.
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      Arrive early to explore the Dark Sky Project.
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      Look for the clear sky forecast before booking.
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      Nearby, check out the famous Lake Tekapo hot pools.

    Why Book with Evendo?

    More About this Experience

    Introduction

    Experience the wonders of the universe with the Summit Experience at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory. This world-renowned astronomical research center offers a truly captivating evening of discovery and stargazing. With its stunning surrounds and state-of-the-art viewing technologies, prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of our Southern Skies.

    What to expect?

    During this 120-minute tour, you can expect to be immersed in a world of astronomical knowledge and breathtaking sights. Expert guides will walk you through the science and stories of the universe while sharing their passion for the Southern Skies. With sophisticated viewing technologies at your disposal, you'll have the opportunity to observe celestial wonders like never before.

    Who is this for?

    This experience is perfect for anyone with a curious mind and a love for the cosmos. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or simply someone who enjoys gazing up at the stars, the Summit Experience caters to all levels of astronomical interest. Bring your family, friends, or that special someone for a truly unforgettable evening under the stars.

    Why book this?

    Embark on this exclusive stargazing adventure with the University of Canterbury and the Dark Sky Project. What sets the Summit Experience apart is not only its breathtaking location but also the expertise of the guides. Their deep knowledge of the Southern Skies and their ability to convey complex astronomical concepts in a captivating way will leave you feeling inspired and enlightened. Furthermore, the use of cutting-edge viewing technologies ensures you'll witness the universe in all its glory.

    Good to know

    Make sure to dress warmly as the night temperatures can get chilly. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the night sky. The experience is suitable for all ages and levels of physical fitness, making it accessible to everyone. Please note that this tour does not include transportation, so plan your journey accordingly.

    Reviews

    Customers who have experienced the Summit Experience at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory rave about the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to view celestial wonders up close. They describe it as an unforgettable journey into the mysteries of the universe. The combination of stunning surrounds, cutting-edge technology, and expert storytelling makes it a must-do for both astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike.

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