The Dark Sky Sanctuary: One of New Zealand's Natural Wonders
Located 100 kilometers from Auckland, New Zealand, Great Barrier has become the first island to be considered an “International Dark Sky Sanctuary” - and only the third place in the world to achieve this status after sanctuaries in New Mexico ( USA) and Chile.
A Dark Sky Sanctuary, if you have never heard of them, is a public or private region of exceptional or distinguished quality for stargazing, protected by its scientific, natural, educational, cultural heritage, as well as public leisure.
New Zealand Shrine
Much of Great Barrier Island has no electricity, which reduces light pollution and favors the view of the sky at night. More than 60% of its territory is publicly owned by the Department of Conservation, and its native forest is home to several of the region's unique plant and bird species, several trails leading to natural hot spring pools and Mount Hirakimata (Hobson Hill). ), which is about 627 meters above sea level, where you can see the island with 360 ° views.
Near Great Barrier is the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, which welcomes visitors from around the world for astronomical tourism. But unlike a reserve or park, a sanctuary is located in more remote areas, with little or no threat to the quality of its night sky, and it does not meet certain requirements to be considered a park or reserve.
Together, these two regions make New Zealand one of the most coveted destinations for astronomers and tourists who, in addition to stargazing, can enjoy other popular island activities such as diving, fishing, surfing, kayaking, mountain biking., trails and camps.
Great Barrier is accessible by air from Auckland, Coromandel, Northland, Tauranga and Hamilton, or by ferry from central Auckland. In addition, there are lodging options from campgrounds to luxury lodges.
* Via advisory
