Day Tours
Day Tour
This tour is a short, eye opening introduction to the vistas seen from Mt. John and the cutting edge research occurring on the mountain.
Duration: 40 minutes
Location: Mt. John Observatory
Sunset Tour (Summer)
Explore the working environment of astronomers, use our solar scope to watch the sun sink below the southern alps, and be dazzled by the emerging stars with our powerful telescopes.
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Mt. John Observatory
Family Tour
Explore the working environment of astronomers, use our solar scope to watch the sun sink below the southern alps, and be dazzled by the emerging stars with our powerful telescopes.
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Location: Mt. John Observatory
This tour is a short, eye opening introduction to the vistas seen from Mt. John and the cutting edge research occurring on the mountain.
If you’re up on Mt. John for the panoramic view or a coffee and a bite to eat at the Astro Café, why not be entertained by our knowledgeable guides that run day tours. They present on a range of subjects from Maori Myths and Legends to natural local history of the surrounding Mackenzie Basin. There may also be opportunities to visit the first telescope on Mt John as well as the largest telescope in New Zealand, the MOA. If the sun is showing its face, it can be observed up close and personal using our special solar telescope which will protect your eyes.
Prepare to be marvelled! You will have a chance to visit the World’s Southernmost optical research facility, New Zealand's largest telescope and explore the working environment of astronomers.
See colourful scenery that you never thought possible. From the turquoise blue lake to the luscious pinks of wandering clouds. Use our solar scope, watch the Sun sink below the Southern Alps. Enjoy a complimentary drink and treat from the Astro-Cafe, then be dazzled by the emerging stars with the use of powerful telescopes. Bring your camera and capture the brilliance of a Sunset Tour.
A treat for the whole family! Early tour ideally suited for those with children under 10 years old. This tour will usually run during NZ school holidays, and is a fun learning experience for young astronomers! Catch our coach up to Mt John from the booking office in Lake Tekapo Village, take a peek at New Zealand’s largest telescope, then come and take a look through our own powerful telescopes. Depending on the season, you may be able to spot some stars or even perhaps a planet! The tour duration is 45 minutes on Mt John (including transport allow 80-90 minutes). Since it doesn't get dark until very late in summertime, it may not be dark while you're visiting us, but it does mean the family can keep to a regular bed-time routine!