Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Matariki rail experience, where you’ll travel from Ōtautahi Christchurch to Kaikōura for an evening of stargazing and cultural discovery under Te Waipounamu’s (South Island's) stunning night sky.
Celebrate Matariki, the Māori New Year, through an immersive experience featuring expert-led stargazing, historical insights, and the warmth of good company.
Inclusions:
- Sat 11th July 2026
- Round-trip train journey Ōtautahi Christchurch ⇄ Kaikōura
- Departing Saturday afternoon, returning late that evening
Kai | Dining:
- 4-course winter-themed dinner with beers and wines (2 courses each way)
In Kaikōura
- Full stargazing experience hosted by Destination Kaikōura and the Dark Sky Trust
- A full range of telescopes with trained Dark Sky guides
- Complimentary hot drinks
- Fire pits for gathering and warmth
- Dark sky education space
- Access to the historic Fyffe House
- Matariki night market
Wet weather plan:
- Event to be hosted at Kaikoura Museum
- Complimentary access to the full museum and its exhibits
- VR headsets for guests to experience the night sky inside
- Complimentary hot drinks
- Matariki Night Market (under cover)
- Local guides and hosts to talk about the exhibits
- Training in how to take beautiful sky photos with your phone
Your ticket includes a Koha to be given to both Fyffe House and The Dark Sky Trust. Koha is a Māori custom which can be translated as gift, present, offering, donation or contribution.
Timetable
- Depart Christchurch: 3:30pm
- Depart Rangiora: 4:05pm
- Arrive Kaikōura: 6:30pm
- Depart Kaikōura: 8:30pm
- Arrive Rangiora: 11:15pm
- Arrive Christchurch: 11:45pm
Discover the Dark Skies of Kaikōura
Step aboard the Matariki rail experience - stargazing under the Southern sky, a truly unique celebration of the Māori New Year, Matariki.
On this unforgettable journey, you’ll not only explore the beauty of the Kaikōura night sky, but you’ll also immerse yourself in the cultural significance of the stars, guided by expert star-gazers and local knowledge. Whether under the stars or in the warmth of the Kaikōura Museum, this is an experience that connects you to nature, culture, and the cosmos.
Each ticket includes a koha to Fyffe House and the Dark Sky Trust, ensuring the continuation of these special events and the preservation of New Zealand's dark skies.
Go further under New Zealand’s star-filled skies
Journey beyond the city lights and into some of Aotearoa New Zealands most breathtaking landscapes with our fully guided tours. From alpine passes to coastal horizons, experience the magic of New Zealand’s night skies - where every journey is connected to the land and sky.
About Matariki
Twinkling in the winter sky just before dawn, Matariki (the Pleiades) signals the Māori New Year. For Māori, the appearance of Matariki heralds a time of remembrance, joy and peace. It is a time for communities to come together and celebrate.
Source: Matariki – Te Tau Hou Māori – Te Ara Encyclopedia of New Zealand
About the Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust
The Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust is dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s exceptional night skies, so much so after four years of hard work, Kaikōura received International Dark Sky Sanctuary status in September 2024.
Through advocacy, community engagement, and education, the Trust has played a key role in reducing light pollution and raising awareness about the benefits of dark sky conservation.
They have collaborated with local businesses, residents, and authorities to implement responsible lighting practices, ensuring that Kaikōura’s stunning celestial views remain protected for future generations.
Their efforts have also supported astrotourism, providing unique stargazing experiences that celebrate the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
About Fyffe House
Fyffe House is the oldest surviving building in Kaikōura and an important historical site. Built in 1844, it was originally part of a whaling station established by Robert Fyffe. The house sits on foundations made from whale vertebrae, a unique feature that highlights Kaikōura’s whaling past.
Today, Fyffe House is a museum managed by Heritage New Zealand, offering visitors a glimpse into early European settlement, whaling history, and the daily lives of those who lived there. It’s located near the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, making it a great stop for those exploring the area.
About the Coastal Pacific
With the Pacific Ocean almost lapping at its wheels and the Kaikōura ranges rising majestically above, the Coastal Pacific is undoubtedly one of the world's most picturesque train journeys.
From craggy coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops to modern vineyards and rustic farmsteads, the Coastal Pacific journey cruises through the full spectrum of New Zealand culture and character. Throw in a healthy dose of seals, seagulls, dolphins and the occasional whale, and the Coastal Pacific train easily ranks as one of best days out in New Zealand.