Dark Sky Project Summit Stargazing Experience at Mt John Observatory

At 1,029m high, Mt John offers unrivalled 360-degree views across the world’s largest Gold Standard International Dark Sky Reserve.

With exclusive access to the summit of Mt John – home to the University of Canterbury’s research centre – you’ll enjoy mountaintop stargazing like no other. Our expert astronomy guides bring the night sky to life, sharing both the science and the stories of our Southern skies.

Begin by stargazing with the naked eye, guided by lasers, then explore deeper through powerful optical telescopes, including access to our private observatory dome. Witness the incredible Milky Way, distant planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even far-off galaxies. Every night sky reveals something new.