Overview
Join us for an unforgettable experience with renowned astrophotographer Rachel Gillespie: an extraordinary evening of ziplining beneath a breathtaking canopy of stars. In September 2024, Kaikōura became only the 22nd town in the world to receive the prestigious **Dark Sky Sanctuary** designation, awarded exclusively to locations with exceptionally pristine night skies. Free from light pollution, the Kaikōura sanctuary offers a dazzling view of the cosmos—where stars burn bright, celestial wonders abound, and the Milky Way stretches vividly across the heavens."
What you will be doing
Your journey begins at twilight, departing from Peketā, crossing the Kahutara River, you’ll leave behind all traces of artificial light.
Arriving at the first zipline deck just as dusk settles, you'll launch into the night, gliding through the air as the distant lights of Kaikōura begin to shimmer.By the time you reach the second zipline’s landing deck, celestial darkness will have fully set in, unveiling a spectacular night sky.
Under a cosmic masterpiece, Rachel will guide you through the stars, pointing out constellations, planets, and other celestial marvels. Depending on the time of year, you may witness distant galaxies, meteors streaking across the sky, or even the elusive glow of a passing comet.
Then, in total darkness, you’ll experience the thrill of riding three more ziplines,soaring through the night in inky blackness—a mesmerising and almost surreal sensation. Along the way, you’ll pause for a warming drink, and thanks to Rachel’s exceptional photography, you may even take home a one-of-a-kind astral souvenir.
You'll carry with you unforgettable memories, breathtaking photographs, and the distinction of being among the few to embark on this world-first adventure.
Where we'll meet
🧭 Meeting/pick-up point: To be confirmed at time of booking
🗺️ Instructions: To be comfirmed at time of booking
Things to know
Accessibility:
Children friendly
Fitness requirement
Any fitness level
Tour Language
English
License requirement
None
Additional information:
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Puffer jackets, beanies, warm socks and shoes are a must.
Children must be accompanied by an adult
To participate in the EcoZip experience you need to weigh at least 30kg (66lbs) but not more than 125kg (275lbs)
If the wind gets above a consistent 35 knots, we may have to cancel the tour for safety reasons
You're welcome to take a camera, smartphone or GoPro-style video recorder on tour. All we ask is that for the security of your device, and the safety of our other clients, your phone, camera or GoPro is attached to your clothing or harness by a strap or lanyard. If you don't have a strap or lanyard for your device, at check-in ask our team about our 'phone bungees'.
Inclusion ✅
Tour guide
Entrance ticket
Exclusion ❌
Gratuities
About your host
EcoZip AdventuresConservation is at the heart of our business, so while riding our ziplines is undeniably huge fun, and something you can share with friends, family and colleagues, you can do it knowing that by zipping with us, you are directly contributing to the preservation and protection of a beautiful, yet once threatened, piece of New Zealand. Native tree planting and pest eradication programmes are set to return the site to its beautiful, untouched state; so, when you stroll through our regenerating bush with your zipline guide, you’ll gain a glimpse of 100% Pure New Zealand, experience our dedication to protecting it and hear the stories of how this spectacular land has changed and adapted.
For every trip booked, Kodama Travel donates £1 to Just One Tree to restore our forests and the ocean.