The Backyard Astronomer Tour 

Stargazing tours from the comfort of your backyard

We bring the telescope to you!

Many amateur astronomers begin their journey from their own backyard, including myself. Looking up in wonder and curiosity is the foundation of modern astronomy and what makes us human.

This tour offers that same authentic experience of backyard stargazing, encapsulating the stillness and peace that comes with it. Just you, your guide and plenty of time to look through telescopes and ask questions. All from the comfort of your accommodation.

Tour includes:

🔦Laser-guided tour of the stars and constellations from your backyard

🔭Observations through a high-powered telescope.

📷Complimentary personal astro photos of you under the stars

-Led by an experienced astronomy guide

Naked-eye Backyard Stargazing

No crowds, no driving—just the stars above. At selected accommodations (see below), I bring the telescope and a guided star tour right to your doorstep, so you can enjoy an authentic Kiwi stargazing experience in total comfort.

Stellar comfort

Enjoy the stars in comfort with provided seating and warm blankets. In the privacy of your own backyard, skip the crowds and take in the night sky in peace and quiet.

Telescope Observations

Get a closer look at the universe through a high-quality telescope. This session offers a clear, science-based exploration of the deep space. Your astronomer will guide you through each object—explaining what it is, how far away it lies, and why it’s important. An engaging way to learn about space.

Astro photo

To wrap up the night, you’ll get a beautiful photoshoot of yourself beneath the stars—a lasting memory of your time under New Zealand’s spectacular skies.

Duration - 75 minutes

Max capacity - 10

Location - Twizel/Tekapo

Pricing

Prices start at $580 for 1 or 2 guests

-$199 for additional adult guests

-$110 for additional child guest (6-16yrs)

Enquire below

Where to Stay

We offer backyard tours around the Mackenzie region, including Twizel and the surrounding area. Enquire to find out if we can visit you!

We’re proud to partner with:

Stay Mackenzie

Temple Cabins

Book Twizel

Spacious living room with large windows, blue sofas, a wooden coffee table, a carpet, and a view of an outdoor patio.

Perfect Combination

Modern house with stone exterior, sliding glass doors, surrounded by a lawn and patio furniture, with a blue sky and distant mountains in the background.

The Schist Cabin

Open field with small trees, wooden fence, house, and distant mountains with snow under a clear blue sky.

Stunning 360-Degree Views