The stars have aligned for Wairarapa, the region having just received official ‘gold standard’ Dark Sky Reserve status by the International Dark Sky Association.

The new reserve is surrounded by enduring protection from significant light encroachment, with the Pacific Ocean to the east and south, and the Remutaka and  Tararua ranges to the west and covers 3665 square kilometres.

DOC has said it will change exterior lights on its houses and huts in Aorangi Forest Park to comply with International Dark Sky rules. The southern Wairarapa forest is the ‘dark core’ of the reserve. In the area, Putangirua Pinnacles, Pararaki Hut, Kawakawa Hut, Mangatoetoe Hut, Washpool Hut, Te Kopi Homestead, Waikuku Lodge and Sutherlands Hut all boast some of the most unpolluted views of the night sky.

Wairarapa is the second region in New Zealand to gain dark sky status. Aoraki MacKenzie International Dark Sky was the world’s first.

Several other regional groups are also working for dark sky accreditation. From New Zealand’s latitude, more stars can be seen than from anywhere  else on Earth.