COSMIC QUEST: WALK THE SOLAR SYSTEM, SEE THE SUN!

Embark on Akaroa's most captivating 2-hour guided walk! Cosmic Quest is the ultimate blend of science, culture, and nature, guiding you through a scaled model of our entire Solar System—from the Akaroa Stargazing Space to the iconic Akaroa Lighthouse. This immersive walk is topped off with a spectacular look at our Sun!

WALK THE ENTIRE SOLAR SYSTEM

Your adventure begins at the Akaroa Stargazing Space. You'll then embark on a fascinating walk through the beautiful seaside village of Akaroa, where each step represents millions of kilometers in space! Along the way, we'll make 8 distinct stops to discover and discuss one of the eight planets, giving you a truly unforgettable perspective on the scale of our cosmic neighborhood.

SCIENCE MEETS MĀORI CULTURE

This tour is enriched with fascinating scientific facts and traditional Māori astronomical narratives. Learn about the celestial bodies that have guided navigation and cultural understanding for centuries, providing a unique and deep cultural connection to the stars right here in Akaroa.

SEE THE SUN LIVE! (The Grand Finale)

Your educational walk culminates at the Akaroa Lighthouse, where the journey ends with a bang! We use specialized solar telescopes and our ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope to provide safe, spectacular observation of the Sun. See sunspots and dynamic features in stunning detail, providing the perfect, high-impact finish to your quest.

PERFECT FOR CURIOUS MINDS

This interactive and educational walk is perfect for families, students, and anyone with a curious mind. It's an easy-paced journey that provides a unique perspective on our place in the universe and the rich cultural connections to the sky.

TAKE HOME DIGITAL SOUVENIRS

You'll receive the incredible, high-resolution digital photos of the Sun, captured live by the Seestar S50, directly to your device at the end of the tour!

INCLUDED

• Expert guide
• Engaging 2-hour outdoor guided walk through Akaroa Village
• Safe observation of the Sun with specialized solar telescope at Akaroa Lighthouse
• ZWO Seestar S50 smart telescope (for capturing solar images)
• 3D printed planets to scale encountered on the walk
• Insightful Māori astronomical stories
• Educational props and visual aids
• High-resolution digital photos of the Sun (shared at the end of the tour)

NOT INCLUDED

• Transfers, pick-ups, & drop-offs (the walk is the transfer!)
• Food & drinks
• Please note: This tour focuses on solar observation and a walking journey; it does not include night-sky telescopic observation.

WHAT TO BRING

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended, as it's outdoors)
• Water bottle
• Camera/smartphone (to receive your photos!)

MEETING POINT

Start: Akaroa Stargazing Space, 2/8 Rue Balguerie, Akaroa 7520
Finish: Akaroa Lighthouse, Beach Road, Akaroa 7520