Dark Sky Places in Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand are blessed with vast and remote natural areas that provide exceptional opportunities for stargazing. The pristine darkness of these regions allows for a breathtaking display of stars, planets, and celestial wonders.

To emphasize the significance of these dark places and ensure their long-term preservation, several areas have been designated as Dark Sky Parks, Reserves, and Sanctuaries. These special locations prioritize the protection of the night sky and promote awareness about the importance of reducing light pollution.

In the following, we present the Dark Sky Parks, Reserves, and Sanctuaries of Australia and New Zealand. Each of these destinations offers unparalleled experiences for stargazers, allowing them to connect with the wonders of the universe and immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky.

Dark Sky Place in Australia and New Zealand

Warrumbungle Dark Sky Park, Australia

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. (...)

River Murray Dark Sky Reserve, Australia

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. (...)

The Jump-Up, Australia

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. (...)

Wai-iti Dark Sky Park, New Zealand

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. (...)

Aoraki Mackenzie, New Zealand

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. (...)

Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand

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. (...)

Aotea / Great Barrier Island, New Zealand

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. (...)

Stewart Island-Rakiura, New Zealand

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. (...)

Further information

If you desire to explore the world of Dark Sky Parks further, ample resources are available to broaden your understanding. The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) provides an extensive list of Dark Sky Places worldwide, which you can access here.

Whether you are an experienced astronomer or a passionate beginner, embarking on a journey to Dark Sky Parks promises a rewarding adventure. So gather your stargazing equipment, prepare your camping essentials, and embark on a captivating quest to discover the wonders of the universe in these pristine natural havens.

Written by Marc Mayr Published June 25, 2023