Date Night
Just YOU, the stars, and the Universe.
The Date Night Experience: What Our Guests Say
Your Cosmos, Your Way: Akaroa's Ultimate Private Stargazing Tour
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A TRULY PRIVATE EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR GROUP
Whether it’s a romantic anniversary, a family birthday, or a small group of friends, your party of 2 to 10 guests has our complete, undivided attention. Your astronomy guide dedicates their time and focus entirely to you, creating a relaxed, exclusive atmosphere. You set the pace, ask every question you have, and enjoy a deep connection with the cosmos without any distractions from other guests.
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CUSTOMIZABLE TO YOUR WISHES
Every detail of the tour is tailored to your group's specific interests. We don't follow a rigid script; you tell us what excites you—whether it's seeing the rings of Saturn, hunting for distant galaxies, or exploring the mythology of the Māori night sky. We customize the objects viewed and the commentary provided, ensuring the night is exactly what you dreamed of and making it truly unique to your party.
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PREMIUM EQUIPMENT, PERSONALLY GUIDED
Your private guide comes equipped with our powerful 10-inch Dobsonian telescope and the stunning ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope. This advanced equipment is solely for your use, ensuring you get maximum viewing time and access to the best objects visible on your chosen night. We handle all the technical details and equipment operation; your group just relaxes and enjoys the wonders of the night sky together.
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POWERFUL STARGAZING IN AKAROA
Our stargazing site is chosen for its superior dark sky views, minimal light pollution, and easy access in the Akaroa area. This location is perfect for capturing high-resolution photos of celestial objects, which your guide will happily share with you. This setting provides the ultimate convenience if you prefer to meet us at a designated, proven spot.
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BRING THE COSMOS HOME: ON-SITE PRIVATE STARGAZING
For the ultimate in convenience and exclusivity, we can bring the entire experience to you! This private tour can be held at your accommodation, whether you're staying in Akaroa or almost anywhere on the wider Banks Peninsula. Imagine stepping straight from your lounge into a universe of stars. Please note there is an additional travel fee added to the price for off-site bookings to cover travel time and complex setup across the Peninsula.
Contact us directly before booking to confirm suitability - a clear view of the sky is required.
Recommendation: Contact us for recommendations if you need help finding the best stargazing-friendly accommodation in the region!
PRICING
2 guests: $379
3-4 guests: $549
5-6 guests: $769
7-10 guests: $1090
Please note that children under 5s join us for free!
DEPARTURE TIME
Departure times vary with sunset, see below schedule for estimated starting times.
December-January: 10:30PM, 12:30AM
February: 10:00PM, 12:00AM
March: 9:30PM, 11:30PM
April-August: 7:30PM, 9:30PM
September: 8:00PM, 10:00PM
October: 9:30PM, 11:30PM
November: 10:00PM, 12:00AM
MEETING POINT
Akaroa Heritage Park, 280 Long Bay Road, Akaroa 7583
Google Maps link
DURATION
90 minutes
GROUP SIZE
Minimum 2, Maximum 10 guests
INCLUDED
State-of-the-art 10-inch Dobsonian telescope
ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope
High-quality binoculars for enhanced wide-field viewing
High-resolution celestial images captured by the Seestar S50 (shared at the end of the tour)
Digital souvenir photo of you under the stars (shared the following day or so)
Hot drink to keep you warm and cozy
Comfortable outdoor seating area to relax and gaze
Blankets for snuggling up
NOT INCLUDED
Transfers, pick-ups, & drop-offs
Food
WHAT TO BRING
Comfortable shoes
Warm clothing
Water bottle
Camera and smartphone
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for further details, including our cancellation policy.
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