Today I want to share a few more photos from New Zealand, as I haven't remembered those places for a long time. So, let's find ourselves on Mount John on South Island, New Zealand. The University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory is located there, and this place is definitely worth a look.
Mount John is located off the coast of Lake Tekapo, a couple of kilometers north of Lake Tekapo township. I already wrote about the lake and the township, so I won’t repeat myself, but I can tell a little about the mountain and the observatory — and show several views from above.
The height of Mount John is relatively low - about 1030 meters above sea level, while the height difference from the coast to the top is about 300 meters. A very good place for an easy walk for about two or three hours: from Tekapo Springs (swimming complex with thermal pools) on the outskirts of the township there is a circular trail called Mt John Summit Circuit Track with an ascent from one side of the mountain, and a descent from the other and return along the coast of the lake.
The walk is worth taking in order to enjoy the views of the surroundings that open from the top, have a bite to eat in the cafe on the mountain — and at the same time to have a look at the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory. Of course, you can go there by car for a small fee, but the trail is actually not difficult and picturesque :)
Founded in 1965, Mount John Observatory is New Zealand's leading astronomical research observatory operated by the University of Canterbury. It is located on the territory of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, which is great for astronomical research. Several different large telescopes are installed there and there are also several buildings for various purposes for the staff of the observatory.
So in addition to daytime trekking, Mount John is worth visiting at night for a great stargazing experience with excursions from astronomer guides and using the telescopes of the observatory. I always like it when in such scientific institutions the very territory around is open for visiting and all the people can at least see and touch it a little, learn something new.
We visited the mountain during the day, passing through, and unfortunately did not have time to visit the night stargazing program — however, the reviews that we heard were excellent. But we admired the wonderful views of the mountains surrounding us from all sides, and the turquoise lake Tekapo.
From the mountain you can also clearly see the resort Lake Tekapo township, along with the beginning of the river of the same name flowing from the lake. It is a pity that there was no time to properly explore Lake Tekapo and the surroundings of the lake for a couple of days, but it often happens when traveling. Who knows, maybe I'll come back there someday? :)
It's better to watch photos in high resolution.
Camera: OLYMPUS E-M1 Mark II
You can also see my photos in my blog LJ and in my profile on RTraveler. You can read a short interview with me here.