Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience

Overview

Available languages

Chinese

English

1 hour

Mobile ticket

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, Māori astronomy and fascinating multi-media installations together in a ‘Big Bang’ of awe and inspiration.

Using incredible immersive visual displays, we explore the science based narrative of how living beings came to be, and delve into the depths of the Milky Way. Get up close with the impressive 125 year old recently restored Brashear telescope.

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 Tekapo or just stopping by.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

45 minutes guided tour through four zones, delivered by passionate guides

Learn the Māori understanding of the universe, its significance in navigation, agriculture, and life

Operates year-round - no need to rely on weather conditions

Suitable for all ages, making it ideal for families and visitors regardless of weather conditions.

A unique indoor journey through space, time, and cultural heritage

Explore the science based narrative of how living beings came to be

View the restored 125-year-old Brashear Telescope, a nine-meter-tall Victorian-era telescope.

Snacks

Coffee and/or Tea

What To Expect

A one-of-a-kind, astronomy experience in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Discover the night sky from a cultural perspective, mixing Māori astronomy with scientific discovery. Learn about the indigenous people of New Zealand and their special connection to the night sky. Explore four interactive zones that reveal how Māori used constellations and ocean currents to navigate, the significance of star clusters, and the mythology in the stars. Both educational and entertaining, this truly unique experience will transform your perspective of the night sky in the best possible way.

•Admission Included

Options

English Guided Tour

Dark Sky Experience with English Guide

Mandarin Guided Tour

Mandarin Tour: Enjoy the Dark Sky Experience with a Mandarin speaking guide.

Reviews

4.31

61 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

We booked the Indoor...
Zoe K,
Apr 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00
We booked the Indoor Astronomy experience because we knew that it was going to be a cloudy evening, and I wanted my children to hear about the Soutern Sky constellations. Our tour guide was enthusiastic and informative. It's a great option if you know you are not going to see the real thing!
A must see
Anesa T,
Jan 13, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Great tour guide, brilliant presentation and worth the visit. The knowledge shared is awesome and the orator does his job very well.
Enjoyable experience
Erica G,
Jan 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Informative, enjoyed the cultural stories, the brought the experience to life. Glad we had something indoors to do given all the rain.
An awesome starry sky experience
Paul S,
Oct 30, 2022
- Viator
4.00
The Maori side of the night sky and their stories was very interesting and informative. The presentation of the information in the various room was well done and kept everybody engaged.
Incredible history
Victoria R,
Apr 21, 2022
- Viator
5.00
Our guide, who was ok with be called, To, bro or boy was great! Very interactive and knew his stuff. I loved hearing the combination of European and Maori as this is important to our NZ cultural