This year, the fifth “Dark Sky Reserve” was newly certified in New Zealand! Located in the South Wairarapa and Carterton areas of the North Island, only about an hour from Wellington, the International Dark Sky Association has granted a “Dark Sky Reserve” status to the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve. 🌌

The Dark Sky Reserve is a certification system that celebrates the outstanding efforts to protect and preserve the dark and beautiful night skies, where there is no light pollution. In New Zealand, “Aoraki Mackenzie” in the South Island was the first to be designated a Dark Sky Reserve in 2012, and the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve is the fifth.

Visitors to the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve can enjoy a truly dreamlike experience of gazing up at the constellations and shooting stars twinkling in the clear black night sky, which covers more than 3,600 square km, amidst a vast, untouched wilderness that is like another world.

It is said that Kupe, famous Māori navigator, arrived in New Zealand about 1,000 years ago, using the stars as his guides. Even today, if the weather and other conditions are right, you can see constellations and shooting stars twinkling in the pitch-black night sky without being disturbed by artificial light.

New Zealand is home to five “Dark Sky Reserves,” which includes two Dark Sky Reserves, two Dark Sky Sanctuaries, and one Dark Sky Park, all recognized by the International Dark Sky Association. One of which is Lake Tekapo, which is said to have “the most beautiful starry sky in the world.” By limiting light pollution, the reserves not only provide a better view of the stars, but also conserve energy and protect wildlife.

With the belief that it is important for both the environment and culture to continue to protect the dark and beautiful night sky, New Zealand is seeking to be recognized as a “Dark Sky Protected Country,” a status that would allow the entire country to be recognized as a dark sky protected area. Currently the only certified country in the world is Niue. This makes an unprecedented attempt for a country as large as New Zealand!

We are very proud to be involved in the promotion of Tourism New Zealand, a country that cares about nature and works diligently to preserve it.