Frequently Asked Questions

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 An IDA International Dark Sky Reserve is a public or private land possessing an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and nocturnal environment that is specifically protected for its scientific, natural, educational, cultural, heritage and/or public enjoyment. Reserves consist of a core area meeting minimum criteria for sky quality and natural darkness, and a peripheral area that supports dark sky preservation in the core. Reserves are formed through a partnership of multiple land managers who have recognized the value of the natural nighttime environment through regulations and long-term planning.  For more information visit  the International Dark Skies Association here: https://www.darksky.org/our-work/conservation/idsp/reserves/

 There are a growing number of Certified IDA International Dark Sky Reserves, including (at September 2022) one NZ site, Aoraki Mackenzie:

• Alpes Azur Mercantour (France)
• Aoraki Mackenzie (New Zealand)
• Brecon Beacons National Park (Wales)
• Central Idaho (U.S.)
• Cévennes National Park (France)
• Cranborne Chase (England)
• Exmoor National Park (England)
• Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve (U.S./Mexico)
• Kerry (Ireland)
• Mont-Mégantic (Canada) 
• Moore's Reserve (South Downs, England)
• NamibRand Nature Reserve (Namibia)
• North York Moors National Park (U.K.)
• Pic du Midi (France)
• Regional Natural Park of Millevaches in Limousin (France)
• Rhön (Germany)
• River Murray (Australia)
• Snowdonia National Park (Wales)
• Westhavelland (Germany)
• Yorkshire Dales National Park (U.K.)

There are a number of sites of various categories or in planning, either as one of the other categories of IDA International Dark Skies or simply by passing district council rules. 

For more information and up to date news on these, see the following:

• The Otago Night Skies Project Exhibition pamphlet PDF found below to be downloaded or read in the PDF Reader
• The wonderful https://darkskynz.org/
• IDA Dark Sky Communities
• IDA Dark Sky Parks
• IDA Dark Sky Reserves
• IDA Dark Sky Sanctuaries
• IDA Dark Sky Friendly Developments Of Distinction

 Check in these various categories:

• Dark Sky Communities
• Dark Sky Parks
• Dark Sky Reserves
• Dark Sky Sanctuaries
• Dark Sky Friendly Developments Of Distinction

• IDA Dark Sky Friendly Home Lighting Program 
• IDA How To Become A Dark Sky Place