Your Stargazing Adventure
Discover the night like never before.
Our stargazing tours take place in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, just outside of Twizel — far from city lights and tourist crowds. With exceptionally dark skies and crisp alpine air, the conditions here are ideal for crystal-clear views of the cosmos.
You’ll explore the stars through powerful telescopes and learn how to navigate the night sky with your own eyes — all under the canopy of one of the world’s best dark-sky regions.
Your Stargazing Adventure
Discover the night like never before.
Our stargazing tours take place in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, just outside of Twizel — far from city lights and tourist crowds. With exceptionally dark skies and crisp alpine air, the conditions here are ideal for crystal-clear views of the cosmos.
You’ll explore the stars through powerful telescopes and learn how to navigate the night sky with your own eyes — all under the canopy of one of the world’s best dark-sky regions.
Recognised Dark Sky Reserve
Expert local guides.
Smaller, personal groups.
Hot Chocolate & Warm Blankets.
High-Powered Telescope Access.
Tour Packages
At Astra Stargazing, we believe everyone should experience the magic of a starry night. Whether you're out with friends, making memories with family, our tours are designed to bring you closer to the universe—with professional guides, amazing stories, and a sky full of wonder.
Stargazing Night Tour
Join a scheduled group experience under the stars.
Runs: Every clear night (weather dependent)
Time: 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Mackenzie Basin, hand-picked dark sky site near Twizel
Group size: Up to 10 people
Time: 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Mackenzie Basin, hand-picked dark sky site near Twizel
Group size: Up to 10 people
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inclusions
- Guided stargazing experience by an expert astrophotographer
- Telescopes, binoculars, and laser pointer tour
- Laser pointer tour of constellations and planets
- Warm blankets and reclining chairs
- Astro-photos of the night emailed to you
- Hot chocolate and snacks under the stars
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price
NZD $89 per adult
NZD $59 per child (ages 6–14)
NZD $59 per child (ages 6–14)
Private Experience
An exclusive stargazing journey tailored for you.
Availability: On request, every night with clear skies
Time: Flexible start time (between 9:00 PM – midnight)
Location: Remote site based on your accommodation or a private dark sky spot.
Time: Flexible start time (between 9:00 PM – midnight)
Location: Remote site based on your accommodation or a private dark sky spot.
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inclusions
- Private guide and photographer
- Telescopes, binoculars, and laser pointer tour
- Laser pointer tour of constellations and planets
- Personalized photo package
- Gourmet grazing platter and wine (non-alcoholic options available)
- Blankets and hot drinks
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price
Starting at NZD $399 for 2 people (additional guests +$80 pp, up to 6 people)
kids Stargazing Tour
Enjoy the night sky without staying out too late.
Availability: On request, every night with clear skies
Time: Starts shortly after sunset on clear nights
Location: Mackenzie Basin, hand-picked dark sky site near Twizel
Time: Starts shortly after sunset on clear nights
Location: Mackenzie Basin, hand-picked dark sky site near Twizel
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inclusions
- 45-minute stargazing session
- Fun, simplified night sky storytelling for kids
- Laser-pointer constellation show
- Use of child-friendly telescope
- Warm cocoa and marshmallows
- Photo of your child with the stars
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price
$45 per child (ages 5–14)
$70 per adult
$70 per adult
Our Team
We’re a tight-knit team of stargazers and guides who love sharing the night sky. Friendly, passionate, and down-to-earth — we’re here to make your experience unforgettable.
Stargazing Guide
Maya
Astrophysics grad who can name every constellation backwards.
senior Stargazing Guide
Leo
10+ years of experience leading stargazing tours in Aotearoa.
Telescope Technician
Aria
Physics student focused on telescope setup and guest interaction.
Astro Photographer
Finn
Guides photo sessions and runs workshops.
operations manager
nico
Manages logistics, bookings, and equipment for nightly tours.
Hear From Our Guests
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Li Mei Zhang
The tour was thoughtfully paced and very well explained. I felt completely immersed in the night sky.
Ethan Walker
I’ve never seen the stars this clearly before. An unforgettable experience with a knowledgeable crew.
Lucía Navarro
So beautiful and peaceful! The guide made everything easy to understand, even for a beginner like me.
Peter Morrison
At 65, I thought I’d seen it all—but this stargazing tour was truly something special.
Wei Chen
The telescope quality was impressive. I appreciated how approachable and well-informed the team was.
Elena Kovačević
A perfect mix of science and wonder. I loved every minute under the stars.