Join Good Heavens on a super enjoyable stargazing experience by the seaside. With minimal light pollution, the island sky is among the best for stargazing in New Zealand.
During a magical night-time journey, learn more about our NZ night sky, the life cycle of stars and how you can use the stars to orientate yourself. Look deep into space through our telescope and wonder at the magnificence of the universe on your small group personalised experience. Local guides will share stories of how our ancestors made sense of this magical starry environment and teach you about living off the grid at the Dark Sky Sanctuary on Great Barrier Island.
Good Heavens make use of our super dark Dark Sky Sanctuary sky in Aotea Great Barrier Island for stargazing. We let our visitors know why we have such super dark skies and of the effects of light pollution, both from an environmental and a human health perspective.
Social Protocols
- Respect the environment - You will be out in nature for this experience so please help protect our environment by taking all your rubbish with you.
- Be a great listener - Have fun and stay safe by following instructions carefully.
- Be considerate of others - You’ll be part of a group, so it’s important to be kind and courteous.
- Turn your phone off - Make sure you don't use your phone while your guides are talking. If you need to make a call, please ask your guide/teacher first.
Cultural Protocols
- A chance to relax - This experience is one way Kiwis like to relax and enjoy life so it will seem very relaxed. Have fun, enjoy slowing down (away from work or study) and relax!
- Be a respectful visitor - You will be a guest during this experience, so please be respectful. Two important Māori customs are to take your shoes off indoors and avoid sitting on tables or pillows.
- Don't be shy - Kiwis are very friendly, open people so this experience is a great opportunity to not be shy, smile lots and make some new friends.
- Hello and goodbye in Māori - If you want to start practising some basic Māori phrases, you could try using ‘Kia ora’ (hello) and ‘Ka kite’ (goodbye).
