Astronomy boost for Christchurch tourism
Christchurch has been given a major tourism boost, after the nearby Mackenzie Basin was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve.
The move is expected to bring astronomers and stargazers from around the world to the region.
“This is fantastic news for Canterbury and the outcome we’ve all been hoping for,” said Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism’s Chief Executive, Tim Hunter.
“It’s wonderful finally to have recognition in both national and global terms for this premium asset. It puts the Mackenzie Basin on the map as a destination of international significance and sends a clear message to people that if they want the ultimate dark sky experience then this is the place to come.
“We’re anticipating seeing a significant increase in visitors to the Mackenzie as a result of this designation because there is enormous interest in the stars and this is one of the few places left in the world where you can really appreciate the natural beauty of the sky,” Hunter added.
The new Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve becomes only the fourth International Dark Sky Reserve anywhere in the world, following Mont Megantic in Canada, Exmoor National Park in the UK, and the Namib Rand Nature Reserve in Namibia. It will now be given protection from manmade light to ensure the night sky remains visible.
Margaret Austin, who chairs the Starlight Working Party, which has been working since 2006 to get the area recognised, said the reserve would be a major lure for overseas visitors coming from areas where light pollution masks the stars from view.
“This is a truly exceptional environment, landscape and night sky that we want to protect and promote,” Ms Austin said.
Mackenzie Tourism’s General Manager Phil Brownie added that the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve will ensure New Zealand is foremost on the astronomy and astro-tourism map.
“Mount John, above the Tekapo township, is considered one of the most accessible observatories in the world. The observatory is home to six telescopes including the country’s biggest telescope which measures 1.8 metres across and can observe 50 million stars each clear night.
“This decision will have enormous ramifications and beneficial flow-on effects for the Mackenzie region as well as for New Zealand as a whole,” Brownie said.