Stewart Island Aurora Hunting: Small Group Tour
Tour Description
Stewart Island/Rakiura is the southernmost Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world and offers one of the darkest locations to view the night sky and a fascinating place to spot the Southern Lights.
We are offering you the opportunity to explore the night skies, searching for Aurora Australis and other secrets of the universe. At the same time spend your days exploring the best Stewart Island has to offer from Kiwi spotting to cruising the Paterson inlet, with time at leisure to explore further and do your own thing.
This is a small group tour perfect for those who wanting to try to witness the world’s most magical phenomena. Also fantastic for those wanting to view great dark skies, and do some astro photography. If the skies are clear, The Milky Way and stars are stunning!
There are many unique opportunities on offer: the rare chance to see Kiwi in the wild, Albatross swopping around, rare bird life on Ulva Island, and an evening with a 3rd generation Stewart Islander - a fascinating insight into life on the island over the years!
Please note that as we are in nature’s hands we cannot guarantee seeing the Aurora, however these tours are timed close to the new moon when skies are dark, and over the months where Aurora activity is most likely.
The itinerary is flexible, the order of tours may change depending on the weather, and also be prepared to wake at any hour of the night, eg 2am, if there is Aurora activity predicted! We have included a good range of activities to ensure a memorable time on the island regardless.
Aurora photo credits: Sandra Whipp
*Please note: images of the Aurora used were taken by Sandra on Stewart Island, images will appear brighter/with more colour than viewing with the naked eye, as modern digital cameras and phones have greater sensitivity and can capture more colours and greater contrast.
Viva's Best Bits...
"A local Stewart Island aurora hunter will give you tips on witnessing and photographing Aurora. She will also have a telescope and binoculars available for use. Check out the above Aurora photo taken from her home!" Tara, Team Viva
This is a bird lovers paradise! Catch a glimpse of the rare Stewart Island robin, saddleback, Stewart Island kiwi, seabirds like albatross, mollymawk and blue penguins Stewart Island has an estimated 20,000 kiwis which outnumber its human population
Join our exclusive small group tour, maximum 20 guests to Stewart Island/Rakiura - the southern-most Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world. The Aurora can be elusive, but we have allowed 5 nights to increase our chances.