Stargazing in Gibbston Valley
Where tranquillity meets celestial wonder—experience the stars like never before
Tucked between mountain ranges and river gorges, the Kawarau Gibbston Dark Sky Park is a newly certified International Dark Sky destination—one of only a handful in New Zealand. With its minimal light pollution, protected night environment, and 360° alpine views, it’s quickly becoming a must-visit for astronomy lovers, astrophotographers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection to the cosmos.
At the heart of it all is Judge & Jury Village, a boutique accommodation retreat offering front-row access to the stars. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or simply stepping outside your cottage with a blanket and a glass of wine, the night sky here is nothing short of extraordinary
What Makes Gibbston Valley a Stargazing Haven?
- Certified Dark Sky Park: Gibbston Valley was officially designated in 2024 by DarkSky International
- Geographic Shielding: Surrounded by The Remarkables and the Kawarau Gorge, the valley is naturally protected from urban light spill
- Lighting Curfews & Community Support: Local policies ensure minimal artificial light, preserving the clarity of the skies
- Year-Round Visibility: From the Southern Cross to the Magellanic Clouds, the sky offers something different every season
On clear nights, it’s possible to see the Milky Way arching overhead, shooting stars, planetary alignments, and even the Aurora Australis when conditions are right
Stargazing at Judge & Jury Village
Right on your doorstep!
Prefer a quieter, more personal connection with the cosmos? Judge & Jury Village offers unparalleled self-stargazing opportunities right from your doorstep.
- Bring a blanket and binoculars or simply lie back and look up
- Use stargazing apps to identify constellations and planets
- Watch meteor showers from the comfort of your private deck
- Enjoy 360° views across the valley with no need to drive anywhere
Our peaceful setting offers a low-light environment that’s perfect for spontaneous stargazing—no equipment or experience required. The image to the left was taken at Judge & Jury in 2025
Partnerships & Events
We are currently in discussions with local operators to bring stargazing events to Judge & Jury Village.
Watch this space!
Guided Stargazing Experiences
Stargaze with an Expert
For those who want to dive deeper into the night sky, Queenstown Stargazing offers small-group, guided tours right here in the Gibbston Valley.
What’s Included:
- 1.5-hour stargazing experience with expert commentary
- Smart telescopes and astro-lasers for easy viewing
- Personal astrophotography under the stars
- Hot drinks and warm tents for comfort
- Low guest-to-telescope ratio (1:5) for an intimate experience
Led by experienced astronomy guides – these tours are ideal for families, couples, and photographers looking to capture the night sky in all its glory
Astrophotography
Photograph the Night Sky in the Dark Sky Park
Gibbston Valley is a dream location for astrophotographers. With low humidity, stable air, and minimal light interference, it’s possible to capture:
- Long-exposure shots of the Milky Way’s galactic core
- Time-lapse sequences of star trails and planetary motion
- Aurora Australis when solar activity aligns
- Deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies with the right gear
The region’s lighting management plan ensures that photographers can shoot well into the night without interference. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a telescope-mounted rig, the results here are truly out of this world
Seasonal Highlights in the Southern Sky
What to look out for….
Each season brings new celestial sights:
- Summer (Dec–Feb): Milky Way core, Saturn, Jupiter, and meteor showers
- Autumn (Mar–May): Orion, Pleiades, and the Southern Cross. Southern Lights (Coronet Peak viewing point)
- Winter (Jun–Aug): Matariki (Māori New Year), Magellanic Clouds, and crisp skies. Southern Lights (Coronet Peak)
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Venus, Mars, and deep-sky visibility
The Matariki season in mid-winter is especially significant, blending Māori cultural astronomy with modern stargazing events supported by the local community
Why Stay at Judge & Jury Village?
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a photography retreat, or a family night under the stars, Judge & Jury offers the perfect blend of comfort, character, and cosmic connection
Located in the heart of the Gibbston Valley Dark Sky Park, Judge & Jury Village offers:
Plan your Celestial Escape
- Dress warmly, especially in cooler months
- Bring a red-light torch to preserve night vision
- Download a stargazing app
- Book guided tours in advance