Great Idea, should be more of it being done around the world.
We have an economic crisis and we are spending millions of dollars lighting up buildings and bridges and even the face of cliffs
I live in Timaru but it's only an hour or so away from there. Not only is the sky dark but the scenery is fantastic.
Plenty to do in daylight hours too such as: fishing, camping ,boating, skiing, gliding, senic flights, mountainairing, to name a few activities.
Sorry, no shopping malls, traffic jams, pollution, major crime,or light pollution )
Certainly sounds nice Gary.
Maybe you should be the Honorary Tourism Ambassador for NZ?
yes maybe so. I could do NZ and you the ambassador for OZ.
Oh forgot to mention
another advantage : No King Brown snakes either.
Glenhuon, I hear of a few people moving there from overseas for astronomy.
If you can't move permantly why not come for a visit anyway. Anyone is most welcome to contact me if you are ever in the area. Just send a PM .I'm on here often enough
Thanks for the offer, but the Hon. Kevin Rudd is a bit busy at the moment, with all the bushfires and the economy, etc. ! However, I'm sure he'll write it in his little notebook he carries around with him, and I'm sure he'll get back to you ASAP.
(Been to NZ to many times over the years to remember. Nice folk, nice friendly amateur astronomers. Ta! )
It's a great idea for a lovely spot. We were over there a couple of years back (my wife's sister lives in St Andrews, not to far from you Gary) and we went up to check out the observatory, fantastic views i must say.
Good story
) 
If you care to leave a message....
