Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Mission statement
We work to preserve our night skies for present and future generations by ensuring that the quality of the natural night skies of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve (AMIDSR) are protected against light pollution – now and in perpetuity – and the reserve is recognised locally and internationally as a centre for astro-tourism and public education.
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The Reserve
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest reserve (4,367㎢) in the Southern Hemisphere. It is comprised of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin of Aotearoa/New Zealand’s South Island. The reserve's formation is a recognition of the pristine and beautiful dark skies of the Mackenzie Region, which are mostly free of light pollution.
What is Light Pollution?
Light pollution is the presence of artificial light in our night environment. It is exacerbated by excessive, misdirected or obtrusive use of light and is a major side effect of urbanisation.
The increased and widespread use of artificial light at night is not only impairing our view of the universe, it is adversely affecting our environment, our safety, our energy consumption and our health.
How You Can Help
To help protect the Mackenzie’s dark skies from the harmful effects of light pollution, commercial enterprises and private residences inside the reserve are invited to apply for dark sky friendly certification.
Our goal is to create a dark sky community in the Mackenzie Region where everyone is committed to reducing light pollution, to protect our famous dark skies as well as the wellbeing of our people, flora, and fauna.