Aotea Great Barrier Island is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary only 90 kilometres by plane or ferry from Auckland, New Zealand.

It's a fantastic place to discover the magic of the Southern Night Sky with Good Heavens  

Come stargazing with us on the sand dunes of Aotea during a 1.5–2 hour guided Stargazing Experience.

Learn about constellations, Maori and European myths and gaze at the Milky Way and other celestial objects - comfortably seated with blankets and hot drinks.

Expect

  • Dark Sky Sanctuary skies, laser pointers, binoculars, a telescope, cosy chairs and close-by parking.
  • Knowledgeable and friendly local guides who personalise your stargazing experience.
  • Connection with nature and the universe during a magical seaside experience.

 

Plan Your Visit  

  • Stunning off-grid Aotea is accessed from Auckland by plane (1/2 hour) or ferry (4.5 hours)
  • Stay at least two nights - preferably three or more - for the best chance at clear skies. Full refund if it's cloudy.
  • Check out these YouTube videos for insights and tips from Deb!

 

Note

  • Children under 13 are half price! Our group experiences are most suited to 8-100 year olds
  • Limited spots—book early! Tripzilla named Good Heavens NZ’s #1 stargazing experience.
  • View Tripadvisor reviews for Good Heavens here.
  • Good Heavens offer Private Experiences for special occasions, large groups and families with small children.
  • Moon Walks take place when the moon is large in the sky and moon light shimmers on the ocean.
  • Bespoke stargazing packages are available, incl. flights, accommodation, 4WD car and stargazing experience.
  • What’s visible throughout the year varies. Check our FAQ or email your specific wishes.
  • We always try our best to show you the best stars while you are on island, however, Mother Nature is our boss.
  • If the weather prevents us from going ahead you will be given a full refund.

Contact us: info@goodheavens.co.nz  - Deb and Hilde would love to hear from you and answer your questions!

13 reasons why stargazing on Aotea Great Barrier Island with Good Heavens is so good

  • Friendly, experienced local guides personalise your experience and make it fun and entertaining
  • We can organise stargazing packages including flights, accommodation, and car rental. Easy!
  • Experiences are on the sand dunes overlooking the ocean. Hear the waves while you look up and get lost!
  • Certified spectacular stars: All of Aotea is a Dark Sky Sanctuary - Great for photographers, too!
  • Nature lovers: 60% of Aotea Great Barrier Island is conservation park and beaches are pristine.
  • Bird watchers: many taonga/endangered species can be observed on the island.
  • Water babies: bring your togs for our wonderful beaches and dip into the thermal hot pools, too.
  • Trampers overwhelm: the island has over 100 kilometers of varied and well maintained walking tracks.
  • Explore alternative life styles: Aotea is an off-grid, zero waste island.
  • Art and crafts afficionados: Aotea is an artistic haven with half a dozen quirky galleries.
  • Explore the Southern Hemisphere sky: superb Milky Way core-view from February to November.
  • Moonlovers: watch the Moon shimmer on the ocean during our Moon Walk, around 10 days each month.
  • Easy travel from Auckland: This Dark Sky Sanctuary is only ½ hour by plane from Auckland Airport!

More info about these 13 great reasons here.

Stargazing in New Zealand