Public access
Public access to Mt. John Observatory is through the Dark Sky Project, who offer nighttime stargazing tours on the mountain. There is also the Astro Cafe which can be visited during daytime.
For astronomers
The University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory (UCMJO) is New Zealand's largest professional research observatory. Its four research-grade telescopes are used year-round for a variety of purposes, including several international research collaborations, student teaching, and by visiting astronomers.
MPC Code: 474
Elevation: 1029 metres
Latitude: 43° 59′ 12″ S
Longitude: 170° 27′ 54″ E
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Apply for observing - Mt John Observatory
17 June 2026
Telescope time is allocated quarterly, from February to April, May to July, August to October, and November to January. Apply for observing at Mt John Observatory.
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Apply for observing - Mt John Observatory
Telescope time is allocated quarterly, from February to April, May to July, August to October, and November to January. Apply for observing at Mt John Observatory.
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Apply for observing - Mt John Observatory
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Apply for observing - Mt John Observatory
Telescope time is allocated quarterly, from February to April, May to July, August to October, and November to January. Apply for observing at Mt John Observatory.
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Availability of accommodation at the Mt John field station
04 August 2026
Check availability of accommodation at Mt John field station.
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Availability of accommodation at the Mt John field station
Check availability of accommodation at Mt John field station.
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Availability of accommodation at the Mt John field station
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Availability of accommodation at the Mt John field station
Check availability of accommodation at Mt John field station.
