Where to dine under the stars around New Zealand

With its beautiful undulating landscapes, lack of light and noise pollution, and exceptional food and wine scene, New Zealand makes a compelling case for dining under the stars

Surely one of the most naturally beautiful countries on earth, New Zealand is known around the world for its swathes of green, majestic mountain peaks and kind, welcoming people. It also boasts exceptional wines and a sensational paddock-to-plate dining scene, so it goes without saying that any opportunity to dine al fresco will not disappoint. Better yet, make that meal dinner, and be rewarded by a starry constellation to accompany your grilled snapper and glass of Sauvignon Blanc.

From memorable experiences to alfresco restaurants, here’s where you can dine under the stars in New Zealand.

Billion Star Dining at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, Aoraki Mount Cook

Begin with a Michelin-quality six-course fine dining experience at Moraine Lodge, followed by a stargazing experience underground at the Pukaki Observatory, which doubles as a wine cellar. Here, along with an introduction to the Southern sky, visitors sip on a welcome drink before a retractable roof reveals a starry sky above – and a powerful 9-inch reflector telescope. The observatory offers an intimate view of the cosmos, with the possibility of witnessing the Southern Lights on special nights.

Dark Sky Diner, Lake Tekapo

As the name suggests, this restaurant is at the Dark Sky Project Base at Lake Tekapo, where on a clear night you can see some of the world’s brightest stars. You’ll be able to see the mountains of the Two Thumb Range overlooking the lake and might even spy the peaks of Aoraki, Mount Cook National Park if it’s clear enough.

The Black Diamond at the Lindis, Ahuriri Valley

At striking South Island lodge, The Lindis, in Canterbury’s Southern Alps you’ll find The Black Diamond – a purpose-built fine dining experience featuring a full-glass front structure allowing for uninterrupted views of the valley and night sky. Hike, take a luxury vehicle or embark on a guided horse trek to the location, where you’ll be greeted with champagne and canapes and a three-course meal.

Minaret Station, Wānaka

Food is at the heart of Minaret Station, a luxury alpine lodge set at the head of a picturesque glacial valley within the untouched landscapes of the Southern Alps, near Wānaka. The chefs use only the freshest local ingredients from Central Otago’s basin, including free range venison, Lumina Lamb and Angus Beef, all sourced from Minaret Station’s own 50,000-acre working farm. Diners can choose from a range of settings to enjoy dinner or drinks during their stay, including al fresco on the deck to enjoy uninterrupted views of the night sky.

Conservatory Dining at Amisfield, Tāhuna, Queenstown

Award-winning winery and restaurant Amisfield offers an utterly memorable dining experience in its glasshouse conservatory, far from the city crowds. Having honed his craft at a three-star Michelin restaurant, Executive Chef Vaughan Mabee creates dishes that represent the work of fisherman, hunters, gatherers and farmers that epitomise the flavours of Central Otago. At Amisfield’s Conservatory, dine under a star-studded sky, surrounded by panoramic views that change with the seasons.

Mount Rosa Lodge, Gibbston

The vineyard at Mount Rosa Lodge proudly stands as one of the highest vineyards in Central Otago. On special request, the lodge is offering an evening of intellectual exploration and gastronomic delight with a local astrophysicist. Take a seat at the table with Brian and embark on a journey through the cosmos while savoring exquisite local home cooked cuisine and wines.

Kinloch Wilderness Retreat, Glenorchy

Set in the secluded heart of beech forests on Lake Wakatipu, Kinloch Wilderness Retreat is set in the country’s smallest township, giving guests the rare feeling of being at the edge-of-the-world. Expect sweeping vistas across the lake and toward the soaring peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park while enjoying a chef-curated dinner featuring seasonal ingredients, sourced locally. Stay in a tiny ecocabin for the most authentic experience.

Evening Cruise onboard the Pacific Jemm by Eichardt’s, Tāhuna, Queenstown

Board the 80-ft Pacific Jemm by Queenstown hotel institution Eichardt’s for an evening cruise on Lake Wakatipu, and take in the views over a glass of champagne. Sample the tastes of the region and flavours of the season with a ‘trust the chef’ gourmet BBQ menu prepared by your own private chef, whilst taking in the spectacular mountain vistas of Lake Wakatipu and the starry skies above.

Doubtful Sound overnight cruise, Te Rua-o-te-moko, Fiordland

Enjoy an unforgettable Doubtful Sound experience starting with a scenic one-hour cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach journey over Wilmot Pass through dense rainforest to Deep Cove. Glide through stunning scenery, guided by knowledgeable hosts who highlight resident dolphins, seals, and penguins, and then enjoy a delicious three-course dinner in the dining saloon, paired with local wines. Wrap up the evening with some stargazing on the upper deck under clear skies.

Mudbrick Rooftop Bar, Waiheke Island

Mudbrick’s rooftop bar sits on the ridge overlooking the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf and back to Auckland city. Featuring an island-inspired menu of elegantly plated dishes using ingredients sourced from the restaurant gardens, it’s a perfect setting for an alfresco meal with views of the starlit horizon. See the sun in Christchurch, Mr Brightside has an extensive cocktail list to enjoy an evening in the garden city.

Nest Kitchen, Tāhuna, Queenstown

Perched above Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu in Kamana Lake House, Nest Kitchen celebrates New Zealand’s natural ingredients with a focus on foraged herbs and wild ingredients. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the lake and starlit skies, or, in the summer, take a seat outside to enjoy signature dishes such as Bluff Octopus Carpaccio and Royalburn Station Lamb.