Our most popular astronomy experience at the world-renowned astronomical research centre. Prepare for an awe-inspiring evening of discovery.

Immerse yourself in the stunning surrounds, pristine night skies and sophisticated viewing technologies as our expert guides share the science and stories of our Southern Skies.

Don't miss New Zealand's premier stargazing experience. Exclusive to Dark Sky Project, the Summit Experience at Mt John Observatory is in partnership with the University of Canterbury.

Summit Experience - University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory

- Be in awe of the night sky above you from the beautiful Lake Tekapo
- Look through an extremely powerful 9-25 inch telescope to see the stars and get images from our eVscope 2 (a telescope and astrocamera-in-one)
- Indulge in hot chocolate, blankets, and roasted marshmallows
- Take your memories with you with complimentary photos taken during the tour
- Hear stories from your guide and learn facts about the night sky

Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour

Explore Tekapo's backcountry wilderness on a Scenic 4WD Tour, offering private access into some of The Mackenzie's most beautiful High Country Stations. Discover the best scenery & landscapes within Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki / Mackenzie area. You'll explore impressive natural beauty beyond Tekapo lakefront for unique photography opportunities, educational commentary and an incredible High Country experience situated in the heart of New Zealand's iconic scenery.  
 • Remote Backcountry 4WD High Country Station Tour through Braemar Station 
 • Stunning and unique views of Mt Cook & Mt Tasman, The Main Divide & Lake Pukaki & The Ben Ohau Mountains 
 • Breathtaking scenery of New Zealand’s most impressive landscapes 
 • Educational information on the area’s unique landforms & species & ecology within The Mackenzie 
 • Feed farm animals such as Sheep, Angus Cattle & Red Deer 
 • Refreshments & Snacks

Scenic 4WD Tour Lake Tekapo Backcountry

The ultimate stargazing experience. Enjoy maximum time under the stars whilst enhancing your knowledge of the Southern skies at our private observatory.

Designed specifically with stargazing in mind, Cowan’s Observatory is the perfect introductory stargazing experience.

Nestled in a giant purpose-built crater to provide maximum wind protection and minimum light pollution, our expert astronomy guides will enhance your knowledge and understanding of our Southern Skies as you admire and ponder the possibilities through our powerful optical telescopes.

Crater Experience at Cowan's Observatory

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. A world first – this indoor experience is a must on all itineraries whether you’re staying in Takapō (Tekapo) or just stopping by.



Dark Sky Indoor Cultural Astronomy Experience

A breathtaing scenic 4WD Tour through a stunning alpine braided river valley in Lake Tekapo's Backcountry. The Cass Valley is situated on the western side of Lake Tekapo, offering a world of Natural wonder and beauty. Access to this stunning alpine valley is solely through our private access and expert driver guides. This scenic 4WD Tour encompasses a large block of mountainous country, containing high inherent landscape values of The Mackenzie Country. Travel through pristine rivers and Merino Sheep. The overall naturalness of the rocky steep scree slides, the U-shaped valleys carved by glaciation, waterfalls, glaciers, lateral moraines and tussock- clad terraces, overwhelm the senses and ignite the wonder of such a supremely stunning and unique landscape. An authentic High Country scenic tour awaits you. 

 Lake Tekapo Tour Scenic 4WD Mountains & Glaciers

Experience the freedom of exploring Mount Cook National Park with us. We maximize your time allowing you to take in all its breathtaking sights. Experience the entire Hooker Valley Track & Tasman glacier track at your own pace. (Not guided walk) Driver is always ready for pickup during the tour.

- Highly recommended for the following people -

Hikers and Adventurers: For those seeking outdoor adventures and
hiking opportunities, our one-day trip is the perfect choice. You have enough
time to complete the Hooker Valley Track at your own pace.

Photography Enthusiasts: If capturing picturesque landscapes is your passion, the scenic views along the way and at Mount Cook will provide you with ample opportunities for remarkable photographs.

Family and Friends: The tour caters to all age groups, making it a great choice for families and friends to create lasting memories together.

Day Trip: Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook National Park

At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is home to New Zealand’s highest peak and longest glacier – Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. The famous Lake Tekapo - are the places you will discover or rediscover on this tour, so escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and head out on an adventure to some of the most beautiful parts of the South Island

You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter or Similar vehicle packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun and knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Memories, made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!



Mt Cook Day Tour From Tekapo (Small Group, Carbon Neutral)

At 3724m, Aoraki/Mt Cook is home to New Zealand’s highest peak and longest glacier – Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. The famous Lake Tekapo and world-renowned meat pies at Fairlie Bakehouse - are the places you will discover or rediscover on this tour, so escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and head out on an adventure to some of the most beautiful parts of the South Island

You will be driven in comfort in our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter or Similar vehicle packed with extras, just to make your journey that bit easier. Led by our fun and knowledgeable and passionate tour guides, this journey will come to life in a new way for you.

Memories, made, hearts happy and photos a plenty in this tour!

Mt Cook One Way Tour From Christchurch Via Lake Tekapo 

Educational and entertaining, the experience highlights the science behind our night sky. Using state-of-the-art space rendering technology explore and learn about the secrets of the night sky

Ever wondered what it would be like to stand inside the rings of Saturn? Or how to find the stars of the Southern Cross? This 45-minute tour will reveal the universe through the unparalleled lens of science and technology.

Presented by our knowledgeable astronomy guides and captivating virtual renditions of the universe, you truly feel like you are amongst the stars.

Explore the sky with your very own astronomer, learn about the southern hemisphere constellations and objects, and come out with a renewed understanding and appreciation of our place within the universe.

45 Minutes Virtual Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo

Tekapo to Mt Cook, via Lake Pukaki (one way). This small group, fully-guided transport combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island. 

From the comfort of our small group bus you will get to see the pictuer perfect landscape of the Mackenzie District and stop to take photos of both Lake Pukaki and our highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook.

Led by our famously passionate guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable mini busses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and the little details that set our transfers well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments, and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.



Experiences in Burkes Pass, New Zealand