Where to see aurora australis in New Zealand

Planning to book a campervan hire to chase the aurora australis in New Zealand? You're in luck! This natural light display, also known as the southern lights, can be seen from several stunning locations across the country. And a New Zealand road trip by campervan is the ultimate way to experience it. To help you get started, we’ve put together this helpful guide to everything you need to know to spot this celestial phenomenon. 

What is the aurora australis?

The aurora australis, or southern lights, is the southern counterpart to the northern lights (aurora borealis). This natural light display occurs in the southern hemisphere when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere. The result is a mesmerising display of vibrant colours that dance across the night sky. These lights are typically green, pink, red, and purple, and can be seen from various parts of New Zealand, especially in the southern regions.

What’s the best way to chase the southern lights?

Travelling by Apollo campervan is an excellent option for chasing the southern lights in NZ. Here's why.

• Flexibility: With an Apollo campervan hire, you're not tied to specific accommodations or schedules. You can follow aurora forecasts and move to the best viewing spots as needed.

• Comfort: A camper offers all the comforts of home. After a night of aurora watching, you can relax in your cosy campervan, cook a meal, and get a good night's sleep.

• Accessibility: Some of the best locations for viewing the southern lights in New Zealand are in remote areas. A motorhome allows you to stay in these spots overnight.

• Cost-effective: Travelling in a campervan can be more economical than booking hotels, especially in tourist hotspots. Save on accommodation and meal costs by preparing your food in the camper's kitchen.

• Immersive experience: A New Zealand road trip in a campervan lets you fully immerse yourself in the country's stunning landscapes. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace and make spontaneous stops to enjoy other things to do in New Zealand.

Where to see the aurora australis in New Zealand

New Zealand offers several prime locations for viewing the aurora australis. Here are six of the best spots:

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Great Barrier Island

Located off the coast of Auckland, Great Barrier Island is a fantastic location for viewing the aurora australis. This remote and rugged island is known for its pristine natural beauty and dark skies. Great Barrier Island is accessible via a 4.5-hour ferry ride from Auckland (or a short flight). The journey to the island is part of the adventure, offering a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. 

The good news is, you can take your campervan onboard the Sealink Ferry. For parking up in your campervan, you’ll find several excellent DOC campgrounds on offer including Medlands Beach Campground which is just a minute’s walk from the beautiful beach.

Lake Tekapo

Nestled in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, Lake Tekapo is one of the best spots to witness the aurora australis in New Zealand. With some of the clearest, darkest skies around, it's perfect for a night of stargazing. The village of Lake Tekapo is famous for its stunning turquoise lake and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, which looks amazing against the night sky. During the day, you can explore the area, enjoy hot pools, or take a hike. Then, as night falls, get ready for a spectacular show in the sky.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is another fantastic location for viewing the southern lights. This park, which is home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, offers pristine skies far from city lights. Explore the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park during the day with its numerous hiking trails, including the popular Hooker Valley Track, and return at night for a chance to see the aurora. The park’s rugged alpine scenery provides a dramatic backdrop for both day and night adventures.

READ MORE: Things to do in Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo

Dunedin

Known for its vibrant cultural scene and rich history, Dunedin is also a prime spot for catching the southern lights. The city’s coastal location and relatively low light pollution make it a great base for aurora hunters. Visit the city of Dunedin to explore its historic architecture, lively arts scene, and nearby natural attractions such as the Otago Peninsula, where you can see albatrosses and penguins. When the conditions are right, head to the beaches or higher elevations for a better chance of viewing the aurora.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Queenstown

Queenstown, known for its adventure sports and stunning landscapes, is also a great spot for catching the southern lights. This vibrant town, nestled between the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu, offers a ton of activities during the day and the chance to see the aurora at night. Whether you're into bungee jumping, skiing, or just enjoying a scenic cruise, Queenstown has something for everyone. After a day full of excitement, find a cosy spot away from the town lights and watch the sky light up with the aurora.

READ MORE: Family friendly things to do in Queenstown

The Catlins

The remote and rugged region of The Catlins is a hidden gem for aurora chasers. Located on the southeastern coast of the South Island, this area is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. The Catlins region is far from major light pollution sources, providing excellent conditions for seeing the southern lights. During the day, explore attractions like the Cathedral Caves, Nugget Point Lighthouse, and Purakaunui Falls, then settle in for an unforgettable night sky experience.

Stewart Island (Rakiura)

Stewart Island, also known as Rakiura, is one of the best places in New Zealand to see the aurora australis due to its southern latitude and minimal light pollution. The island's name, Rakiura, means ‘glowing skies’ in Māori, a nod to its frequent and vivid auroras. Stewart Island offers a unique blend of rugged wilderness and charming village life. Visitors can enjoy hiking in Rakiura National Park, bird watching, and exploring the island's beautiful beaches and bays. The island’s remote location ensures an incredible viewing experience for the southern lights.

Top tips for watching the southern lights

Catching a glimpse of the southern lights can be an unforgettable experience. Here are some top tips to help you make the most of your aurora-hunting adventure.

Stay informed

Keeping up to date with aurora forecasts will make your travels a whole lot easier to plan. Websites and apps that monitor solar activity can provide real-time updates and predict the best times for viewing the aurora australis. Check resources like Aurora Reach and SpaceWeatherLive for current aurora forecasts. Apps like My Aurora Forecast or the aurora australis (NZ) Facebook group can help you find where aurora activity is likely to be high, helping you plan your viewing times effectively.

Be patient

Patience is key when it comes to aurora watching. The southern lights can be unpredictable, and you might need to wait a while before they appear. Plan to spend several hours outside, bring something comfortable to sit on, a hot drink, and enjoy the beauty of the night sky as you wait for the lights to appear.

Use the right equipment

Having a few pieces of equipment on hand can really enhance your aurora viewing experience. A good camera with manual settings, a sturdy tripod, and a remote shutter release can help you capture stunning photos of the aurora australis. Don’t forget to dress warmly, as nights can get quite cold, especially in southern locations.

Find the perfect spot

Location is everything. To get the best view of the southern lights, head to places with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the southern horizon. Remote areas and dark sky sanctuaries are excellent choices. The further south you go, the better your chances of a spectacular show.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Adjust your eyes

Give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. Avoid looking at bright lights, including your phone screen, as this can hinder your night vision. Once your eyes have adjusted, you’ll be able to see the aurora more clearly and enjoy the full spectacle of the night sky.

Respect the environment

While you’re out enjoying the southern lights, remember to respect the environment. Stick to designated paths, take all your rubbish with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife. By preserving these pristine locations, we ensure they remain beautiful for future generations to enjoy.

Ready to see the aurora australis?

Seeing the southern lights is a magical experience, and the best way to chase this phenomenon is by travelling in the comfort of an Apollo campervan. With the freedom and flexibility to follow aurora forecasts, you can head to the best viewing spots whenever conditions are ideal. An Apollo campervan provides all the comforts of home, allowing you to stay close to nature and immerse yourself in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.

Ready to start your aurora adventure? Book your Apollo campervan online today. Don't miss out on this incredible experience – secure your campervan now and make unforgettable memories under the southern sky.