International Dark Sky Parks

Stewart Island-Rakiura, designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2019, is a remarkable destination for stargazing. Situated south of New Zealand's South Island, it holds the distinction of being the country's third largest island, yet it is home to a small population of approximately 400 residents. (...)

Located approximately 62 miles northeast of central Auckland in the outer Hauraki Gulf of the North Island of New Zealand, Great Barrier Island, known as Aotea, has earned the prestigious designation of an International Dark Sky Sanctuary since 2017. This remote island covers an area of 285 square kilometers and is a haven for approximately 1,000 inhabitants who enjoy a slower pace of life away from the bustling world. (...)

Located closed to the Pacific Ocean in the southern part of the North Island, Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve has been officially designated since 2023. Spanning an area of 3,665 square kilometers, the core of the reserve is comprised entirely of the Aorangi Forest Park public lands, while the periphery confines the Carterton Districts and South Wairarapa. (...)

Located in the central region of the South Island, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve has held the prestigious designation since 2012. Encompassing the magnificent Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and the expansive Mackenzie Basin, this reserve spans an impressive area of 4,367 square kilometers, making it the largest reserve of its kind in the southern hemisphere. (...)

Wai-iti, designated as the first International Dark Sky Park in New Zealand since 2020, is nestled in the north of the South Island within the Tasman state. Spanning an area of approximately 135 hectares, it encompasses the Wai-iti Recreation Reserve and Tunnicliff Forest, both owned by the Tasman District Council. (...)

Situated approximately 24km southeast of Winton, a town in Outback Queensland, Jump-up holds the distinction of being the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in Australia, designated in 2019. Its natural environment encompasses the vast flat plains of the Channel Country to the striking mesa formations of the Vindex Ranges. (...)

Located in South Australia, approximately 100 kilometers east of Adelaide, the River Murray has earned the prestigious designation of a Dark Sky Reserve since 2019. Spanning an area of 3,200 square kilometers, this reserve encompasses the remarkable Swan Reach Conservation Park, a sprawling 2,000-hectare expanse of untouched Mallee bushland. (...)

Australia and New Zealand are blessed with vast and remote natural areas that provide exceptional opportunities for stargazing. The pristine darkne...

Located in the Orana region of New South Wales, approximately 500 km northwest of Sydney, Warrumbungle National Park is a celestial oasis known for its pristine dark sky. With an expansive area of 23,312 hectares, this park has earned the prestigious designation of a Dark Sky Park, making it the first of its kind in the southern hemisphere. (...)

Discover the ultimate stargazing experience at International Dark Sky Parks, where the conditions are perfect for a breathtaking view of the stars.

Europe boasts expansive natural areas with low population density, making them ideal for stargazing. As a result, numerous Dark Sky Parks have been...

Situated in the north of Austria lies the Attersee-Traunsee Nature Park, a haven of natural beauty and tranquility. Since 2021 it proudly holds the distinction of being Austria's first Dark Sky Park, dedicated to preserving the pristine darkness of the night sky. (...)