Kaikoura recognised as New Zealand’s third ‘International Dark Sky Sanctuary’

Kaikoura is among the most beautiful coastal towns in the world. Set in Aotearoa, New Zealand the place is noted for offering amazing whale-watching opportunities. But the news here is that Kaikōura has been officially designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it the 22nd location globally and the third in New Zealand to earn this prestigious status.

The recognition, awarded by DarkSky International, celebrates Kaikōura’s exceptional starry skies and its commitment to preserving its nocturnal environment, which benefits scientific research, education, and cultural heritage, while providing public enjoyment.

This recognition places Kaikōura alongside New Zealand’s other two Dark Sky Sanctuaries: Great Barrier Island (Aotea) and Stewart Island (Rakiura), whose name translates to “glowing skies” in Māori. Kaikōura’s sky quality measures 21.58 mag/arcsec², placing it near the upper limit of darkness on a scale where urban skies register around 16, and perfect darkness is rated at 22. Stargazing enthusiasts can enjoy the dark skies from six recommended locations, including the remote Mount Fyffe car park, the conveniently located Kaikōura Lookout, and coastal spots such as South Bay Reserve, Pohowhera, Point Kean, and Fyffe House.

The Kaikōura Dark Skies movement was initiated in 2020, driven by concerns over the region’s endangered seabird, Hutton’s shearwater (tītī in Māori), which is vulnerable to disorientation from artificial lights. These seabirds, unique for breeding in sub-alpine environments, have their last two breeding colonies in the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges.

Artificial light pollution causes the shearwaters to become confused, leading them to crash-land and become stranded, where they are at risk from predators or vehicles. By reducing light pollution, the sanctuary not only protects these birds but also benefits other species such as pollinating insects and frogs, whose habitats are similarly disrupted by artificial lighting.

Energy conservation and human health are additional benefits highlighted by the Kaikōura Dark Sky movement. Nicky McArthur, Chair of the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust, emphasized that the sanctuary’s designation was a collaborative effort involving local community members, environmental organizations, and government agencies.

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Amber Harrison, International Dark Sky Places Program Manager, praised the certification, calling attention to the region’s exceptional night skies and the importance of protecting these natural resources. The Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust plans to expand protections by partnering with neighboring communities to safeguard the region’s dark skies for future generations.