This Country Has Some of the Darkest Skies in the World-These Are the 10 Best Places to Stargaze There

"As cities sprawl ever outwards, they bring their big lights with them, and the once-dark night skies overhead are being lost. But in New Zealand, thanks to its low population density, the skies have remained surprisingly dark, and over 96 percent of its landmass still has views of the Milky Way at night. DarkSky International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the night sky, has identified some of the best spots for witnessing the wonders of the cosmos across the island country."

"Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve The country's first Dark Sky place, Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, is one of 24 reserves in the world. Aoraki Mackenzie encompasses Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park on New Zealand's South Island, and the dark skies are particularly important in this part of the country because of their cultural significance. The area's first inhabitants, the Māori people, used the night sky to navigate and integrated astronomy into their daily lives."

New Zealand retains remarkably dark night skies, with over 96 percent of its landmass offering Milky Way views because of low population density and extensive preserved areas. DarkSky International has designated ten Dark Sky places across the country, including reserves, sanctuaries, and the nation's first Dark Sky Community, Naseby. Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve encompasses Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and holds cultural importance for Māori navigation and astronomy. Aotea Great Barrier Island and Kaikōura Dark Sky Sanctuaries combine remoteness, low resident numbers, and protected lands to provide outstanding conditions for stargazing and celestial viewing.

Read at Travel + Leisure