Kaikoura , a coastal town on New Zealand ’ s South Island , has been officially designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary . The accolade was awarded in late 2024 by international volunteer organisation Dark Sky , and represents the culmination of a four-year certification process . The local community first took steps to reduce light pollution a decade ago to help protect the endangered Hutton ’ s shearwater birds . These birds can become
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disoriented by streetlights and crash-land on the ground , where they are at risk of predators . Since then , the Kaikoura Dark Sky Trust , local volunteers , environmental organisations and government agencies joined forces to minimise light pollution . To enhance the astrotourism experience , local initiatives include setting up camera stands and a host of educational programs . Kaikoura is the third New Zealand location to have earned this recognition and one of only 22 locations around the globe . |
Oceania ’ s new sailings Oceania ’ s Nautica , Regatta and Sirena will sail on 60 new itineraries for 2026 , exploring the Caribbean , Asia , Africa , the Mediterranean and Northern Europe . The itineraries emphasise lesser-known ports like Tortola ( British Virgin Islands ), Bozcaada ( Turkey ) and Maputo ( Mozambique ). |
images : getty ; alamy |
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