We can see more stars from New Zealand than from the Northern Hemisphere because here, the centre of the Milky Way, our galaxy, can climb to Zenith (overhead). Yet, many people worldwide cannot see the Milky Way at all.
The Wairarapa Dark Sky Association, supported by the South Wairarapa District Council, the Carterton District Council and many other organisations and individuals, applied for Dark Sky Reserve status, which the IDA has granted.
Data from LINZ data service.
Total Area:
3637.75 sqkm
Core:
194 Sqkm
South Wairarapa District:
2457.84 sqkm
Carterton District:
1179.91 sqkm
You can read here the application that the Wairarapa Dark Sky Association submitted to the International Dark Sky Association.
“An IDA International Dark Sky Reserve is a public or private land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural, heritage and/or public enjoyment. Reserves consist of a core area meeting minimum criteria for sky quality and natural darkness, and a peripheral area that supports dark sky preservation in the core. Reserves are formed through a partnership of multiple land managers who have recognized the value of the natural nighttime environment through regulations and long-term planning.”
Light pollution is disruptive to many species, from corals to bats to the humans who put up all those lights. “The Darkness Manifesto” urges us to reconsider our drive to dispel the dark.
Aotea / Great Barrier Island (New Zealand)
Stewart Island / Rakiura (New Zealand)
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
The interactive gallery sessions include a planetarium show, VR headsets and Mars rovers, they last one hour and are $5 / visitor.
Our Look After Our Night Sky exhibition is FREE
