Do you want to see the magnificent southern lights in New Zealand? But don't know about the best places where you can see this natural phenomenon? If yes, then we got you covered.
Doubtlessly, Aurora Australis, or southern lights, are an incredible natural process that lights up the night sky in the southern hemisphere. In this article, we'll delve into the definition of southern lights and then explore the five best places in New Zealand to witness this mesmerizing spectacle.
We'll also discuss the best time to plan your visit for an unforgettable experience. So what are you waiting for? Let's explore!
What are Southern Lights in New Zealand - Explained
Before we embark on our journey to discover the best places to see the southern lights in New Zealand, let's understand the southern lights first. The southern lights happen when charged particles coming from the sun strike with Earth's atmosphere gases.
These collisions create stunning displays of colorful lights dancing across the southern hemisphere's night sky. The colors, ranging from green and pink to purple and red, create a celestial spectacle that's nothing short of magical.
Understood the phenomenon perfectly? Now, let’s dig deeper and discover the five best places for seeing the southern lights in New Zealand.
5 Best Places to See Southern Lights in New Zealand
Without a shadow of a doubt, picking the right place is the most significant task for seeing the southern lights in New Zealand.
So, let's dive into this to know the best place to see southern lights in New Zealand.
Stewart Island
Stewart Island is located off the southern coast of the South Island. It is a prime spot for southern lights enthusiasts. The remote location and low light pollution make it an ideal destination for stargazing and aurora hunting.
Otago Peninsula
It offers not only beautiful landscapes but also a high chance of witnessing the southern lights. The peninsula's coastal areas provide unobstructed views of the night sky. You should visit the Hoopers Inlet on this island to enhance the probability of glimpsing the southern lights.
Lake Tekapo
Tekapo is known for its stunning turquoise waters and clear skies. You can also head to the Aoraki Mackenzie, designated Dark Sky Reserve, making it perfect for southern lights photography. It's surely one of the best places in the world for stargazing and catching the southern lights. Moreover, you can also go to the nearest mountains. A higher altitude will definitely provide a better view.
Aurora Center, Invercargill
If you're serious about capturing the perfect shot of the southern lights, consider visiting the Aurora Center in Invercargill. This facility is dedicated to studying and observing auroras and offers expert guidance.
The Catlins
Another spot that can offer you the best view of southern light is The Catlins. It is crucial to mention here that you can find this place in the extreme south of the south island. The night sky is immensely clear here, and light pollution is also less. So, it makes it easy to catch a better glance at the Southern lights.
Hopefully, now you've evaluated which is the best place to see southern lights in New Zealand for your trip.
Things to Keep in Consideration for Elevating Your Experience
If you want to get the maximum out of southern lights in the New Zealand gazing experience, then you need to prepare ahead. Catching the perfect sight is surely not a piece of cake. And you have to put a lot of effort into viewing this spectacular scene.
Here are some beneficial tips that can help in making your experience top-tier:
Right Season
First thing first, if you want to see this rare sight, then choosing the right season is vital. Therefore, always visit New Zealand in the winter months. If you visit in summer or spring, then you might enjoy other activities in New Zealand. But glancing over the southern lights is a bit tough.
Keep a Keen Eye on Forecast
You are investing your time, money, and energy in capturing this divine beauty. So, never settle for anything less. Having said that, it's imperative to see the forecast and only visit when there are robust predictions of KP strength 5 or above.
Low Polluted Area
Seeing the southern light in New Zealand is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many of us. So, rather than viewing vivid or blurred southern lights, it's better to find a relatively less polluted place. You can pick a place from our suggested spots.
Stay Awake Till Midnight
It might sound cliche, but believe me, you can see the southern lights at their best at midnight. So, you have to sacrifice your sleep to see these spectacular lights. And we believe it is worth sacrificing sleep.
Darkest and longest nights
Another thing that you need to keep in mind is to hunt for the darkest and longest nights. And surely winter nights serve you the most. So, pick a darker night. Also, choose a time when there is high solar activity.
Best Month to See Southern Lights in New Zealand
Timing is crucial when it comes to seeing the southern lights in New Zealand. The best month to see southern lights in New Zealand is during the southern hemisphere's winter. The duration between June to September is best to see this rare sight. These months offer longer nights and clearer skies, increasing your chances of a spectacular sighting. Additionally, it's essential to check space weather forecasts to increase your odds of witnessing this natural wonder.
Conclusion
Well, now everything about southern lights in New Zealand has been done and dusted. So, you need to find the best place. Otherwise, you will ruin this enchanting experience.
Not only that place, but you need to visit the southern lights in New Zealand at the right time also. So, you should go to New Zealand in the best month to see the southern lights of New Zealand. Lastly, I'll say that seeing this magical wonder of nature is surely pure bliss. So, try to get the best out of it by making the right choices.
