South Island Stargazing Adventure Tour

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Set off on a scenic journey from Christchurch to Twizel, traveling through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes, including a stop at the stunning Lake Tekapo.
Leaving the city behind, head southwest towards Lake Tekapo, passing through the picturesque Canterbury Plains and into the heart of the Mackenzie District. As you near the lake, the landscape transforms into a surreal expanse of turquoise waters framed by rugged mountains. Your first stop is the Church of the Good Shepherd, a charming stone church set against the lake’s striking blue backdrop—one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand.
For a moment of relaxation, visit Tekapo Springs, where you can soak in hot pools while admiring panoramic views of the lake and mountains. In winter, the springs offer ice skating, while a tubing park provides year-round fun. For those seeking a higher vantage point, a hike up to the Mt. John Observatory rewards you with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Mackenzie Basin. As part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it’s also an exceptional spot for stargazing.
Continuing the journey, follow the shores of Lake Pukaki, famous for its vivid blue waters fed by glacial melt from the Southern Alps. Stop at one of the many lookout points to take in stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.
Reaching Twizel, you’ll discover a charming town known for its outdoor adventures and proximity to some of the country’s most spectacular natural attractions. As the gateway to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Twizel offers an array of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging alpine climbs. Consider visiting the Tasman Glacier, where guided tours provide an up-close look at this icy wonder, or take a scenic boat ride across the terminal lake. For fishing enthusiasts, Twizel’s lakes and canals are renowned for their trout and salmon.

Get ready to embark on a journey 13.8 billion years in the making. A treat for the senses, the Dark Sky Experience brings science, tātai aroraki (Māori astronomy) and fascinating multi-media installations together in a ‘Big Bang’ of awe and inspiration. Thought-provoking, educational and entertaining, this journey is sure to change your outlook in the best possible way.

The flight of a lifetime, the "Grand Traverse" is a spectacular scenic flight seeing experience allowing you to explore the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks. This magnificent flight encompasses two World Heritage National Parks and 200 km of New Zealand's most memorable and spectacular scenery. The contrast of colours is beautiful with the turquoise glacial lake against the tussock covered sheep stations. Your journey will bring you over Aoraki Mt Cook National park where you view New Zealand's longest glacier, The Tasman. From there you cross the main divide into the Westland National Park encompassing the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers which spill down to the rainforests of the west coast. Their large and varied fleet especially selected for New Zealand air tour sightseeing ensures that every passenger has a window seat and all aircraft have wings-above to ensure optimum viewing below. Pilots provide a full and informative commentary with multi language commentary brochures supplied.

The Mackenzie Region is home to some of the clearest night skies in the world, and its Dark Sky Reserve was only the third of its kind in the world when it was created in 2012. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve was also the first to be given a gold tier status, and is the largest at 4.367 square kilometres. This tour will allow you to marvel at the most fascinating stars and deep sky objects in the southern night sky, getting up close to star clusters, nebulae, and the Milky Way under some of the world's purest night skies - without having to leave your own property. You will also be given the opportunity to pose for an astro-portrait of yourself underneath the starry sky as a keepsake and reminder of this spectacular experience.

The next town south is Omarama and the Wrinkly Rams cafe makes an interesting coffee stop. Heading down the Waitaki valley, from Omarama, you follow the hydro power generating system towards the east coast. The town of Oamaru is most famous for its white stone buildings, constructed with the local 'Oamaru Stone'. From the harbour, you can see blue penguins come ashore at dusk as they return from their day at sea. Further south the Moeraki Boulders are a unique geological feature and worth the short detour to the beach to view. Arriving into Dunedin, you can appreciate the city's Edwardian and Scottish heritage through its fine buildings particularly around the Octagon.

Dunedin, known in Māori as Ōtepoti, is referred to as the "Edinburgh of the Southern Hemisphere". The city has a rightly deserved reputation as one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Of particular note is Dunedin Railway Station, built 1904 - 1906, and St Paul's Cathedral in the Octagon. The Otago Museum is renowned for its Māori and Pacific Island collections and natural history displays. A visit to the Speights, New Zealand's oldest brewery, is also considered a must while in Dunedin. The Botanic Gardens is a great spot and at the right time of year, you can witness the Rhododendron Dell in bloom. The Otago Peninsula is the only home in the world to the Northern Royal Albatross. The Peninsula can be visited for the day from Dunedin and the stunning harbor landscape and wildlife are worth exploring. High among the rolling hills of the Peninsula is Larnach Castle, the grand home of an early politician. Construction of the castle began in 1871 and was completed 12 years later. From here, views out to sea and back towards the city emphasize the singular beauty of Dunedin and its jewel-like harbor.

Keeping with the historical setting of Larnach Castle, a four-course dinner is offered in a grand Castle Dining Room. This is a trust-the-chef experience where you may indulge in incredible meals and meet other guests. The menu reflects local meats and vegetables, served in a traditional New Zealand-style cuisine with the opportunity to pair with regional wines.

If you’d like to brush up on your astronomy before heading out to view the night sky, visit the Planetarium Tūhura Otago Museum for the Live Space Tour. This show reveals what the Dunedin sky will look like that very night, highlighting significant stars and constellations. Armed with this knowledge from Australasia’s only 3D planetarium, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what you’re seeing when you step outside to stargaze—thanks to the immersive 360-degree screen.

At dusk, enjoy close up viewing of little penguins returning from a day at sea within the Takiharuru Pilots Beach nature reserve. Watch penguins just a few metres from you as they scurry up the beach to their cliff-face burrows, often stopping just metres away, allowing for awesome viewing and photography of these birds in their natural habitat.
The tour includes a special “behind the scenes” walk through the reserve prior to the penguins emerging from the sea to learn about the flora and fauna of the area. Learn about the endemic plants, their use by early Māori, and see the restoration work of the habitat that benefits penguins and other wildlife. Blue Penguins Pukekura tours are hosted by local expert wildlife guides who share the rich cultural history of the area while also sharing biological knowledge of endemic flora and fauna.

The Royal Albatross colony at Taiaroa Head on the Otago Peninsula is the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross in the world. From the centre, it's a short walk to the observatory for the privilege of seeing the greatest of all seabirds. Wander through the McMillan Gallery and learn more of the history and wildlife of the area. The Unique Taiaroa experience offers a comprehensive 90 minutes guided tour of both the Albatross colony and Fort Taiaroa. Enjoy spectacular Albatross viewing from the Richdale Observatory including the introductory "Attenborough" video and albatross breeding cycle information. The Fort Taiaroa guided tour takes you back into New Zealand's colonial past. It covers the Maori and European occupation of the headland with a visit to 'Fort Taiaroa,' underground fortifications beneath the Albatross Colony. Walk through the underground tunnels to the 1886 Armstrong Disappearing Gun that is still in working order. This was established to counter the anticipated threat of invasion from Tsarist Russia.

Keeping with the historical setting of Larnach Castle, a four-course dinner is offered in a grand Castle Dining Room. This is a trust-the-chef experience where you may indulge in incredible meals and meet other guests. The menu reflects local meats and vegetables, served in a traditional New Zealand-style cuisine with the opportunity to pair with regional wines.

The drive to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farming scenery. Head off-the-beaten-track today and follow the coastline instead of the inland route. Go through The Catlins area and be sure to take a detour to Kaka Point to view its majestic cliffs and pounding surf. Continue through Invercargill to Riverton and Colac Bay, and then head north to Manapouri. From here you can embark on a day or overnight cruise to the remote Doubtful Sound, renowned for its natural beauty. Just a short way further will bring you to your lakeside destination of Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

Begin your Te Anau Glowworm experience with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau on board the luxury catamaran, Luminosa, to the western side of the lake. On arrival, you'll enter the caves through Cavern House, where informative displays detail the history of this 12,000 year old underground network. You'll then explore by limestone pathway while your guide points out hidden whirlpools, sculpted rock formations, and a rushing underground waterfall. See a magical display of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the darkness in a small boat.

Kepler Track Jet Boat & Hike offers an exhilarating day of adventure and natural beauty. This small-group tour, limited to 12, includes a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waiau River and a guided walk through stunning native forests. You will be picked up from your Te Anau accommodation and taken to the Waiau River for an exciting jet boat ride. Cruise through Lord of the Rings film locations and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Lake Manapouri, where you might find yourself the only boat on the lake. After disembarking, enjoy a morning tea with freshly baked treats. Then, embark on a guided walk along the Kepler Track, recognized as a Great Walk of NZ, surrounded by native forests filled with beech and rimu trees. Spot native birds and capture endless photo opportunities. The hike ends at the Rainbow Reach suspension bridge, where your transport will take you back to Te Anau.

Uncover the magic of the southern night sky on an exclusive stargazing tour. Learn why this celestial view is so unique compared to the northern hemisphere, as expert guides share fascinating insights. Use astro-binoculars, a professional telescope, or simply your naked eye to locate stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulas. A captivating journey through the universe awaits.

The road to Milford Sound has countless photo opportunities and short walks. The Mirror Lakes create perfectly clear reflections of the surrounding mountains and glacier formed meadows. Further along the road The Chasm Walk includes two walking bridges over the dramatic Cleddau River, while the surrounding ancient native beech forest creates a fascinating landscape. You'll pass through the Homer Tunnel, an incredible feat of engineering at 1219 metres long. Milford Sound is the only sound accessible by road, making it very popular to visit. Coming into the village you'll be greeted with an amazing view of Mitre Peak which rises spectacularly from the waters up to the sky. Real Journey cruises can take you out into the sound where you'll receive a wealth of information on how this magnificent area has been formed and experience first-hand the multitude of waterfalls that line the fiord.
Note: Please make sure to allow 2.5hrs to Milford Sound, this takes into account the current road works on the Milford Road."

Cruise Milford Sound in luxury on board the Fiordland Jewel. This purpose built luxury boutique catamaran has nine fully heated and air-conditioned cabins with king size beds and ensuite bathrooms. With no more than 20 passengers on the boat, you will have plenty of space to relax and take on the spectacular views. Milford sound is simply like no other place on earth, with impressive peaks that tower hundreds of metres both above and below sea level, cascading waterfalls and pristine rainforests. Seals, dolphins and penguins can be seen from the boat, and rare black coral, lobsters and schools of fish can be viewed in HD from the boats remote operated vehicle.
On day one you will cruise down the south side of the fiord, past Bowen Falls, Sinbad Gully, the world-renowned Mitre Peak, Mt Pembroke, Bridal Veil Falls and Fairy Falls. If weather permits, you will cruise into the mouth of the fiord past Anita Bay, and head into the Tasman Sea for a glimpse of the West Coast, before returning into the sound. You will then cruise up the north side, past Dale Point, the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, Seal Rock, Stirling Falls, The Lion and the Cascade Range. After a few hours, you will anchor at Harrison’s Cove or Deepwater Cove for the night. Here you will have the opportunity to explore nearby in a kayak, before returning to the boat for drinks and dinner. On day two you will watch the sunrise over breakfast, served at 7-8am, before returning to the terminal.

Your Milford Sound overnight cruise returns to Milford this morning between 9 and 10 am. As you journey to  Glenorchy, you'll cross rolling tussock lands and pass through Mossburn, known as the deer capital of New Zealand. Continuing north through the Southland countryside, you'll reach the shores of Lake Wakatipu. From here, the road hugs the lake’s edge, with the Remarkables mountain range towering above as you near Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
From Queenstown, a breathtaking 45 km drive follows the lake’s shoreline to Glenorchy. This charming township is home to a handful of quirky stores, thrilling activities like Dart River Safaris and horse trekking, and superb walking tracks. In 2025, Glenorchy has also been recognized as GTahuna Glenorchy Dark Sky Sanctuary.
Just a little further along, and well-signposted, lies Paradise—a name that truly fits. This tiny hamlet sits on the edge of the lake, bordering the stunning Mt Aspiring National Park.

Situated at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, around 45 kilometers from Queenstown is the sleepy town of Glenorchy. This picturesque township is a great place to relax and the drive along the edge of Lake Wakatipu is stunning. Dart River Safaris operates Jet Boat wilderness tours from here and these 4-hour adventures are a must-do. Just a little further along is the tiny hamlet of Paradise situated on the edge of the lake just outside Mt. Aspiring National Park. There are many day and multi-day walks to explore in the Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks including some of New Zealand's iconic ‘Great Walks’ such as The Routeburn and Milford tracks.
In February 2025, Glenorchy became an International Dark Sky Sanctuary - the first inland mountain sanctuary in New Zealand where you can touch the stars from the tops of mountain peaks, and see them reflected in the depths of the lake.

Embark on a leisurely e-bike self-guided journey to discover the hidden treasures of Glenorchy. The untamed beauty of the backcountry landscape beckoned countless creative souls a century ago. The surreal vistas in every direction inspire you to paint, or capture them in photographs – anything to preserve this image in your memory. The enchanting wilderness in this corner of the Otago region exudes magic and mystery. It’s no surprise that many renowned films like Lord of the Rings and Mission Impossible selected this scenery for their breathtaking scenes.

Discover the pristine beauty of Fiordland National Park on an unforgettable flight deep into its heart. Soar over the stunning Lake Erskine and along the famous Milford Track, before witnessing the grandeur of New Zealand’s tallest waterfall, Sutherland Falls. Glide through the ancient forests of Milford Sound, then touch down on a secluded West Coast beach for a breath of fresh sea air. As we take off toward Glenorchy, marvel at the towering Mount Tutoko, Fiordland's highest peak, before landing on the Humboldt Mountains, where panoramic views of Glenorchy and beyond await.

The drive from Glenorchy to Queenstown is picturesque as the road hugs the eastern shores of Lake Wakatipu. It is described as one of the most scenic drives in the South Island. Enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains on the western side of the lake and see Pig and Pigeon Islands in the middle of Lake Wakatipu. You can also stop at various points along the way to do a lakeside walk, such as Bobs Cove or Lake Dispute.

Queenstown known in Māori as Tāhuna, is home to many adrenaline-inducing activities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this alpine town has very distinct seasons, and most adrenaline-filled activities can be accessed year-round. Queenstown is home to jet boating, bungy jumping, rafting, skydiving, paragliding, and even indoor thrills. If you want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon Swing, or Zip line the Gondola. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace, there are plenty of recreational activities, including hiking and biking trails to explore, guided tours, boat cruises, scenic flights, or spa and wellness options to help you get away. Head to the lakefront, eat at one of the al fresco eateries, and soak up the local vibes; catch a ride on the iconic 100-year-old steamship the TSS Earnslaw; or take the Skyline Gondola and enjoy bird's-eye views of the Remarkables mountain ranges and Lake Wakatipu. Pack a picnic and go for a hike, only 20 minutes from Central Queenstown, Coronet Peak opens for summer sightseeing. You can ride the Peak Gondola to the top for panoramic views and hike the trails, or go for a bike ride on many excellent biking trails. In winter, Queenstown becomes a world-class winter resort, with four ski areas and a range of activities, bars, restaurants, and ways to relax and unwind. 

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience a delicious barbeque lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting. First, take a scenic cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, one of the last remaining fully functional coal-fired passenger ships in the southern hemisphere.
Disembark and take in the picturesque shores of the Station. Relax on the lakeside terrace at the Colonel's Homestead Restaurant and savour the aromas of the best local produce being cooked on the grill. The seasonal menu has plenty to choose from salads, vegetables and succulent meat with plenty of delicious dietaries on offer as well. Finish your meal with a scrumptious dessert before joining an entertaining farm demonstration or exploring the beautiful lakeside gardens.

With breathtaking views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Complex is a must-do. Catch the fully enclosed gondola to the summit for a remarkable panorama of the city surrounds. On a clear night, wander the outdoor viewing decks and follow your knowledgeable stargazing guides to the specially-constructed platform on Bob's Peak. With clear views of the night sky, away from any light pollution, gaze through a state-of-the-art 11” Celestron telescopes to reveal stunning sights not visible to the naked eye. On this stargazing tour, learn how to navigate using the iconic Southern Cross and further explore the incredible Milky Way. A truly unique and memorable experience, you may even spot other planets and galaxies before returning back to the Stratosfare Bar where you may wish to enjoy a delicious hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Experience sunrise over the lakes and mountains from the serenity of a hot air balloon. You'll float gently with the breeze, enjoying incredible panoramic views and your flight is followed by a champagne style breakfast at your landing spot. Flights are at dawn when the air is cool and calm and in the right conditions you can expect to see views of Coronet Peak and The Remarkables ski areas, Mount Aspiring in the Southern Alps and Mount Tutoko in Fiordland National Park. You can also see Lake Wakatipu, Lake Hayes, the Shotover and Kawarau rivers. Additionally a bonus for many are the views of some Lord of the Rings scenes such as The Ford Of Bruinen, Dimrill Dale, The Gates of Argonath and The Pillars Of The Kings. Also visible is Mount Earnslaw, one of the great mountains seen in Isengard.  The flight is for approximately 1 hour and you will be standing for the duration of the flight.

Visit Queenstown's most popular and iconic landmarks in this incredible private experience with Remarkables Scenic Tours. Take off with your guide and journey to Arrowtown to explore the Chinese Village, with time to explore the shops and relax. If you enjoy wine, get taken to a winery in the Gibbston Valley, Central Otago's premier wine region, stopping at the best photo locations along the way. Learn about history and culture, discover hidden gems and listen to captivating stories from your local and knowledgeable guide.

Return your rental vehicle to your designated depot before your next adventure.

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!