Who has wanted to see the northern lights? It has to be top of most people’s bucket lists. But what of the even rarer southern lights? We have our own energetic collision spectacle happening with the Aurora Australis, often seen from New Zealand. This aurora chasing trip in New Zealand’s Southland travels to the remote Catlins and Stewart Island. Stewart Island is the southernmost Dark Sky Sanctuary in the world and this trip visits some of the most remote and unknown regions of New Zealand.

itinerary

HELLO to the Caitlin’s and your travel companions for the next four days

HYMN to the peaceful beauty of the Cathedral Caves

SUNSET stroll up to Nugget Walk for spectacular views

DAY TREK through Rakiura National Park

DINNER at the historic South Sea Hotel restaurant

CHASE the Aurora Australis

JOURNEY to Ulva Island

SPOT the rare critters, wild kiwis, and rich botanical life of the island

SUNSET GLOW over Halfmoon Bay

location

Caitlin’s and Stewart Island. They’re two of the most southernmost parts of New Zealand, both relatively unpopulated and unpolluted, meaning clear skies and the best chance of catching the Southern Lights! On the first night we’ll be sleeping at Whistling Frog Resort, located in the heart of the Caitlin’s, situating us perfectly for beautiful nature walks. The resort boasts a range of accommodation styles, from self-contained cottages and chalets to cabin rooms with shared bathroom facilities.

For our final two nights, we’ll be staying at South Sea Hotel, a charming fixture of Stewart Island right in the middle of magical Halfmoon Bay. The hotel is fantastically placed for us to explore the virtually untouched ecosystem of Rakiura National Park, and of course, to experience the Southern Lights (Stewart Island’s Māori name, Rakiura, literally means ‘land of the glowing skies’). Accommodation options range from traditional hotel rooms to self-contained cottages that you’ll have all to yourself.

faq’s

How do I get there?

Our journey begins and ends in Dunedin. There are no direct flights from any of Australia’s metropolitan cities to Dunedin – you’ll need to touchdown in Christchurch and then take a short connecting flight from there.

What should I bring?

The South Island can get pretty chilly in the wintertime, with temperatures dropping below zero at night. We’ll be doing some evening activities as we venture out to catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights, so make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes (a base layer of thermals is a must), and comfortable walking shoes. 

You’ll definitely want to bring a camera to capture the incredible Aurora Australis (although there’s something to be said about putting your camera down in special moments like these, and just taking in the present). 

Can I come solo or with friend or a partner?

Both! solo travellers will immediately connect with the group through the many activities we’ll be doing together, and friends will likewise have a great time connecting with the group. if you're coming with a friend, and want to be roomed together, let us know in the rooming configuration box at purchase. if you're coming with a partner (or someone you're close enough to share a double bed with), let us know at time of booking and we will contact you with further details.

Will I have downtime?

While we do have lots of things planned, there will be time to chill and read a book on your deck or go for long country walks. The activities are of course optional, so if you feel you want to sit one out, just let us know! 

Is it COVID safe?

We have a Covid-Safe plan and will be watching the border and health situation very closely. Rest assured that if covid impacts the trip we will postpone to a later date, and if that isn’t feasible, we will offer refunds.

want to join us?