​New Planning Framework Helps Naseby Reach Dark Sky Community Status

After ten years of stargazing dreams, Naseby has turned them into reality as New Zealand's first officially recognised International Dark Sky Community.

The achievement represents innovative collaboration between community advocacy and progressive policy-making, with Central Otago District Council developing New Zealand's first comprehensive dark sky protection framework through District Plan Change 22.

Beginning in 2021, Council initiated a comprehensive District Plan Change to establish Dark Sky precincts and govern light use, involving extensive technical research, community consultation and legal framework development. Council worked closely with Naseby Vision, a local community group, throughout the decade-long process, providing technical expertise and navigating regulatory complexities.

The adopted Plan Change 22 now provides a template for other Central Otago communities, positioning the district as a leader in dark sky conservation nationwide. This groundwork has enabled the community to achieve official certification from DarkSky International.

“The people of Naseby have put in a tremendous amount of effort into achieving the first International Dark Sky Community certification for the nation of New Zealand. The country is already a leader for dark skies in many ways, and we at DarkSky International are confident that more communities like Naseby will come to attain this certification and continue the push for greater lighting policies throughout the country,” International Dark Sky Place Program Manager Amber Harrison said.

To mark this milestone, a community event is planned in Naseby for Saturday 27 September, inviting locals and visitors to learn about and celebrate the exceptional quality of Naseby’s night skies. The event will kick off a series of initiatives designed to deepen public engagement with astronomy and light pollution awareness.

“Naseby’s recognition as an International Dark Sky Community is an inspirational example of what happens when community, conservation and vision come together. This honour not only celebrates our pristine skies today but also safeguards them for future generations of Central Otago residents and visitors,” Tamah Alley, Central Otago Mayor said.

The Dark Sky Community status enhances the region's position as an astro-tourism destination and is already inspiring new tourism ventures, including Paul Bishop’s Naseby Night Sky Tours, and expanding creative and educational programmes like Winterstellar.

“We must congratulate the people of Naseby for leading the charge in protecting our region’s night skies. With Central Otago already identified as a prime location to view the next full solar eclipse in July 2028, there’s no better place to experience it than a town that has embraced and safeguarded its exceptional night sky vistas,” Anthony Longman, Head of Destination at Tourism Central Otago said.

Read more below:

Naseby: The NZ town with 150 residents recognised for its night sky | Stuff

Naseby, New Zealand | DarkSky International

All eyes on Naseby’s night sky - Central Otago District Council