If you travel far enough south, you might just experience a light show unlike any other because New Zealand is one of the nations that is closest to the South Pole, where the aurora originates.
1. When to See the Southern Lights at Their Finest
Unfortunately, it is difficult to forecast the Southern Lights. They follow no set routine. In actuality, they frequently happen with a little 30-minute’ warning!
Although auroras occur all year round, the best months to observe them in New Zealand are June and July throughout the winter (March to September). It is better to observe the aurora around midnight when the sun is on the opposite side of the Earth from where you are.
2. Best Places to See Southern Lights in New Zealand
Stewart Island
Of course, the greatest and most accessible location to watch the Southern Lights is on the third and southernmost island of New Zealand.
Lake Tekapo
The South Island’s central region typically experiences clear skies for some spectacular Aurora Australis displays. The Mackenzie region, which includes Lake Tekapo, is one of the best spots in the world to view the Southern Lights because it is a designated Dark Sky Reserve by the international community. For better views, you can always climb higher terrain in the nearby mountains.
The Catlins
The Catlins is located on the South Island’s extreme southern tip. You might get a breathtaking view of the green and pink tint in the sky if you have a clear night and stay away from other polluting lights. See the stars from one of the Catlins’ fantastic campgrounds or free-range camping spots.
Invercargill
Another southern region of the South Island, with occasional views of the Southern Light. Go away from Invercargill’s city lights for the best chances of witnessing the aurora.
Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island, off the northeast coast of Auckland, was named an International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, despite being further north than the other places. Going to this protected area boosts your chances of witnessing the aurora, away from the city lights, if you’re not traveling any further south than Auckland. You may get to the island by plane from Auckland, Coromandel, Northland, Tauranga, or Hamilton or by ferry from central Auckland.
Queenstown
In the South Island’s Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a well-liked adventure sports resort. It’s also well renowned for its spectacular light display in the skies above it. For views and photo ops along the water, look south from Lake Wakatipu’s shoreline or drive 15 minutes to Lake Hayes in central Queensland.
Dunedin
Okay, so from Dunedin, you might have to be extremely lucky to view the lights. But Dunedin has occasionally been treated to a display of The Southern Lights. On the Otago Peninsula, Hoopers Inlet is one of the best spots to see the Auroras.
