Sungazing & Stargazing Tour with Grazing Platter in Akaroa

Join a shared, open-air astronomy experience that brings together skywatching and local food. Explore with expert guidance, whether you're new to astronomy or already an enthusiast.

Itinerary

1. Meet at Akaroa Heritage Park for departure at 16:00, 16:30, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30 or 20:00. Drive yourself; transport is not included. The park is a 7-minute drive from Akaroa township or a 90-minute scenic drive from Christchurch International Airport.
2. Begin with 45 minutes of guided safe sungazing through specialized solar telescopes. Learn about sunspots, solar flares and prominences.
3. Enjoy a 1-hour dinner featuring a locally sourced grazing platter and a complimentary drink as the sun sets over Akaroa Harbour.
4. Explore the night sky during 1 hour 15 minutes of guided stargazing with two telescopes, including a smart telescope. Look for planets, the Milky Way, nebulae and distant galaxies.
5. Finish at Akaroa Heritage Park and receive digital photos of deep-sky objects and your personalized souvenir photo taken under the Milky Way. The tour ends 3 hours after departure, at 19:00, 19:30, 20:00, 20:30, 21:00, 21:30, 22:00, 22:30 or 23:00, depending on your departure time.

What's Included

• Admission and an English-speaking guide
• Use of specialized solar telescopes and two stargazing telescopes, including a smart telescope
• Locally sourced grazing platter and a complimentary drink
• Digital photos of deep-sky objects and a personalized souvenir photo

Important details

• Children aged 0–4 join free when they do not occupy a separate seat.
• This activity is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
• This activity is not recommended if you have a serious medical condition or a disability.
• If you appear intoxicated, you may be refused participation without a refund.
• Pets are not allowed.
• Sign a liability waiver before participating. Do not bring illegal substances.
• Arrive 10 minutes before your selected departure time.