Where and When to See the Southern Lights in New Zealand

Witness the ethereal dance of the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, as vibrant greens, soft pinks, and deep purples paint the night sky. This natural phenomenon is a must-see for every traveller, and New Zealand is one of the best places to catch this awe-inspiring show. In this guide, we’ll share the essentials of when, where, and how to maximise your chances of seeing the Southern Lights in NZ.

The Aurora Australis: What exactly are the Southern Lights?

Auroras happen when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s magnetic field. These solar particles are carried by the solar wind and drawn towards the planet’s magnetic poles, interacting with atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere. The energy they release manifests as captivating displays of light, which we know as the aurora.

While the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) tend to steal the spotlight, the Southern Lights are equally enchanting. They can be observed from the southern reaches of New Zealand, Australia, and other landmasses in the Southern Hemisphere.

The best times to see the Southern Lights in New Zealand

The optimal time to view the Aurora Australis in New Zealand is during winter (March to September), with June and July offering the highest chances of success. The widest part of the aurora is visible when the sun is positioned on the opposite side of the Earth from your location, so aim for the late night to early morning hours, with midnight being the sweet spot.

What weather conditions are required to see Aurora Australis?

To improve your odds of a fruitful Aurora Australis NZ sighting, distance yourself from city lights, ensure an unimpeded view to the south, and choose a night with minimal cloud cover. Set your camera to a long exposure to confirm your sighting of the Southern Lights, which is sometimes faint to the naked eye. If the aurora lights in NZ are present, they will undoubtedly appear in your photographs.

The best places to see the Southern Lights in New Zealand

• Mt Cook/Lake Tekapo Southern Lights: Situated within the Dark Sky Reserve, these locations boast some of the planet’s darkest and clearest night skies. Venturing high into the mountains, such as at the Mt John Observatory in Tekapo, can yield spectacular aurora activity.
• The Catlins: As one of the southernmost points on the mainland, The Catlins offer a prime location to escape light pollution and optimise your aurora-viewing potential.
• Stewart Island: New Zealand’s southernmost inhabited island, Stewart Island, is accessible by a brief ferry ride from Bluff or a short flight from Invercargill. With a sparse population and abundant national parkland, light pollution is a non-issue here. Just be mindful of the unpredictable weather.
• Wellington: Although sightings are less frequent, the Southern Lights can occasionally grace the skies above Wellington on the North Island.
• Queenstown: During the cooler months, you can hike up Bob’s Peak for a stargazing tour. Far away from local light pollution, you may catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights, depending on conditions.

How to find out if the Aurora Australis will be visible tonight

The strength of the aurora is measured on the Kp index, ranging from 0 (weakest) to 9 (strongest). A Kp value of 5 or higher is classified as a geomagnetic storm, significantly increasing your chances of seeing the lights. Various websites, Facebook groups, and mobile apps are dedicated to assisting aurora hunters in their quest.

Our top tips for catching a glimpse of the Southern Lights

• Refer to the Aurora Australis forecast and aim for a prediction of Kp5 or above.
• Head to the South Island for optimal viewing conditions.
• Select a night with clear skies and minimal cloud cover.
• Plan your viewing to coincide with minimal moonlight.
• Opt for a location far from artificial light sources.
• Gain elevation for an unobstructed view of the southern horizon.
• Aim to view between late night and early morning.
• Focus on the winter months in New Zealand (March to September).
• Time your trip to coincide with a ‘perfect solar cycle year’ (approximately 2024 and 2035).

Discover the wonders of New Zealand’s landscapes and skies with Skyline today

Now that you know when and where to see the Southern Lights in New Zealand, it’s time to prepare for your journey. Start by immersing yourself in the splendour of New Zealand’s natural world with Skyline. Reach the summit of Bob’s Peak via the Queenstown Gondola, where you can join a guided walk, test your skills on the Skyline Luge, and indulge in a sumptuous meal at the Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar. You can also hire space for a private event. For more South Island thrills, check out our blog post on the top adventure activities in Queenstown. If your travels take you to the North Island, read our blog on the best restaurants in Rotorua.

So, grab your bags, pack your camera, and prepare to be enchanted by the magic of the Aurora in NZ. Embrace the darkness, watch the southern skies, and watch this incredible phenomenon that connects the Earth to the sun’s energy. Your journey to the Aurora Australis starts here.