See the 2028 Total Solar Eclipse in New Zealand

The path crosses parts of the lower South Island. Central Otago, including Dunedin and Queenstown are among the places shown within the path of totality.

Each offers a different setting, but Dunedin has some practical advantages for an eclipse taking place so late in the afternoon. Its coastal location offers more opportunities for an open western outlook, with fewer high mountain ranges immediately surrounding the city. That matters because the sun will be very low in the sky during totality. In Central Otago and around Queenstown, surrounding mountains can block the sun earlier, making the exact viewing location particularly important. We’ll consider the viewing location as part of your wider itinerary rather than naming a single best place for everyone.

Earlier planning gives you a wider choice. Eclipse demand is concentrated on one date and in a limited geographic area, so rooms near the path may become difficult to find. We’ve already started securing rooms, but availability is selling quickly. Contact us for the latest availability or to join the waitlist as we work with our accommodation partners to secure more rooms.

10 to 14 days works well for a focused South Island trip. Around 18 to 21 days gives you much more room to include the North Island or travel more slowly through the South Island.

We recommend arriving in New Zealand several days before 22 July. For most itineraries, we’d also aim to have you in your eclipse region at least 2 nights before the event. This creates a buffer for flight disruption, weather and winter road conditions.

Yes. Families can plan the event into a New Zealand holiday. Children need close supervision when using solar viewing glasses, particularly during the partial phases. Tell us your children’s ages so we can suggest appropriate accommodation, transport and experiences.

Yes. Tell us about mobility, accommodation, transport, sensory or other accessibility requirements at the start of the planning process. Viewing locations vary considerably, so this information helps us avoid unsuitable options.

The 2028 total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of both Australia and New Zealand. Your choice depends on the wider trip you want, available accommodation, viewing location and the type of holiday you’d like to plan around the event. For travellers wanting to explore New Zealand, Otago gives you the chance to combine the eclipse with a wider South Island holiday. We also have a team based in Queensland through Inside Australia Travel, who are actively planning and booking 2028 eclipse itineraries for travellers wanting to experience totality in Australia.