Aurora australis Kaikōura tonight

The southern tip of the Kaikōura Peninsula gives the most southerly ocean-facing position accessible without a long drive. The walkway along the peninsula coastline faces south over the Pacific Ocean. Kaikōura's light dome is to the northwest, leaving the southeast and south sky largely unaffected. At Kp 5, aurora australis appears on the southern horizon from the rocky point at the walkway's southern end. The peninsula restricts some eastern and western horizon angles, but the south-facing ocean view is the most important direction. The walkway is accessible at night - wear appropriate footwear on the rough coastal track.

A coastal headland 25 km north of Kaikōura, facing east over the Pacific Ocean and southeast toward the open South Pacific. The fur seal colony is at the base of the cliff. The road pull-off gives a clear ocean horizon to the east and southeast. No settlement within 20 km to the north or east. Bortle Class 2-3 conditions from the headland. At Kp 5, aurora australis appears on the southeastern and southern horizon. The combination of ocean exposure and dark sky makes this a better aurora position than the peninsula within Kaikōura itself. Drive north on SH1 from Kaikōura; Ohau Point is clearly signed.

The Clarence River reaches the Pacific Ocean at a remote, exposed beach 35 km north of Kaikōura. The beach faces east and southeast over open ocean with the Kaikōura Ranges behind. No settlement to the south or east. Bortle Class 2 conditions. The Seaward Kaikōura Range rises behind, creating a dramatic skyline to the west while the ocean horizon to the east and southeast is fully open. At Kp 5, aurora australis appears on the southeastern horizon and may extend toward south-southeast on stronger nights. Access via SH1 north then a short unsealed section - standard vehicle in dry conditions.