Astronomy Bites - Sungazing to Stargazing with Grazing Platter
- Duration: 3 Hours (approx.)
- Location: Akaroa, Canterbury
- Product code: 6
ASTRONOMY BITES: NZ’S ONLY SUNSET-TO-STARS CULINARY JOURNEY
Solar Flares. Sunsets. Science. Stars. Embark on New Zealand’s most exclusive celestial experience. This is the first and only journey that transitions seamlessly from the fiery surface of the Sun to the deep mysteries of the Southern Cross—all whilst indulging in a gourmet local grazing platter.
With only 6 seats available, this is a boutique experience designed for those who seek more than just a tour; they want a profound connection with the cosmos in an intimate, relaxed setting.
WHY THIS IS AKAROA’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS EVENING:
THE "MAGIC HOUR" TRANSITION: Whilst others wait for total darkness, your journey begins in the light. View solar flares through specialised telescopes, witness a world-class Akaroa sunset, and watch the first stars appear as the night sky takes over.
A TASTE OF THE REGION: We elevate your evening with a premium local grazing platter. Enjoy the finest locally sourced produce as the sky shifts from burnt orange to deep indigo. (Please note: this is a non-alcoholic experience).
THE "INNER CIRCLE" EXPERIENCE: Limited to just 6 guests to ensure ultimate intimacy. No crowds and no rushing. You have three hours of dedicated time with our expert astronomer to explore every question you’ve ever had about the universe.
CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY: We utilise a massive 10-inch Dobsonian for "eyepiece magic" and the Seestar S50 Smart Telescope to track deep-space nebulae in real-time.
DIGITAL SOUVENIRS INCLUDED: We don’t just show you the stars; we capture them for you. You will receive high-resolution digital images of the celestial objects you observed, captured live during your tour.
THE "MAGIC HOUR" TRANSITION: Whilst others wait for total darkness, your journey begins in the light. View solar flares through specialised telescopes, witness a world-class Akaroa sunset, and watch the first stars appear as the night sky takes over.
A TASTE OF THE REGION: We elevate your evening with a premium local grazing platter. Enjoy the finest locally sourced produce as the sky shifts from burnt orange to deep indigo. (Please note: this is a non-alcoholic experience).
THE "INNER CIRCLE" EXPERIENCE: Limited to just 6 guests to ensure ultimate intimacy. No crowds and no rushing. You have three hours of dedicated time with our expert astronomer to explore every question you’ve ever had about the universe.
CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY: We utilise a massive 10-inch Dobsonian for "eyepiece magic" and the Seestar S50 Smart Telescope to track deep-space nebulae in real-time.
DIGITAL SOUVENIRS INCLUDED: We don’t just show you the stars; we capture them for you. You will receive high-resolution digital images of the celestial objects you observed, captured live during your tour.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
EXPERT ASTRONOMY GUIDE: Personalised storytelling and guidance for just 6 people.
TRIPLE TELESCOPE ACCESS: Specialised Solar, 10-inch Optical Telescope, and Smart Telescope.
GOURMET GRAZING: A generous platter of locally sourced Akaroa delights.
DIGITAL GIFT: High-res celestial images + a souvenir photo of you under the stars.
THE COMFORTS: Selection of hot drinks, cosy blankets, and comfortable seating at our dark-sky site.
EXPERT ASTRONOMY GUIDE: Personalised storytelling and guidance for just 6 people.
TRIPLE TELESCOPE ACCESS: Specialised Solar, 10-inch Optical Telescope, and Smart Telescope.
GOURMET GRAZING: A generous platter of locally sourced Akaroa delights.
DIGITAL GIFT: High-res celestial images + a souvenir photo of you under the stars.
THE COMFORTS: Selection of hot drinks, cosy blankets, and comfortable seating at our dark-sky site.
OUR "CLOUDY NIGHT" GUARANTEE
Nature is unpredictable, but your evening isn't. If the skies are hidden, we move to our IMMERSIVE INDOOR SPACE JOURNEY. You will still enjoy the gourmet platter, the astronomer's stories, and a high-definition virtual tour of the cosmos at a reduced rate. (Alternatively, you may choose to reschedule or request a gift card/refund).
LOGISTICS & ARRIVAL
MEETING POINT: Akaroa Heritage Park (280 Long Bay Road, Akaroa 7583).
ARRIVAL TIME: Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled departure.
DRESS CODE: It gets very cold! Please wear multiple layers and comfortable enclosed shoes. Even in summer, temperatures of 5°C are common at night.
TRANSPORT: Guests are responsible for their own transport to the meeting point.
MEETING POINT: Akaroa Heritage Park (280 Long Bay Road, Akaroa 7583).
ARRIVAL TIME: Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled departure.
DRESS CODE: It gets very cold! Please wear multiple layers and comfortable enclosed shoes. Even in summer, temperatures of 5°C are common at night.
TRANSPORT: Guests are responsible for their own transport to the meeting point.
GETTING TO THE MEETING POINT - IMPORTANT
NEED TRANSPORT FROM AKAROA?
If you require transport from your accommodation in Akaroa to our stargazing site, we recommend:
Akaroa Taxis: +64 27 220 9718 | akaroataxis@gmail.com
NEED TRANSPORT FROM CHRISTCHURCH?
We recommend contacting one of the following shuttle services to arrange a return trip for your evening tour:
STEVE'S SHUTTLE: +64 21 232 4294 | stevenvrhvn@yahoo.com.au
NZ LOOK SHUTTLE: +64 27 887 7701 | hello@nzlookshuttles.co.nz
CHEEKY KEA TRANSPORT: 0800 259 532
