New Zealand
Where to see the aurora in New Zealand
Wait for dark.
Kp is 0.0. Oban needs Kp 6+ for the oval overhead — right now it’s not reaching Oban.
Tonight's peak is forecast around Kp 5.3 (Minor storm). The forecast still depends on darkness, cloud and the moon at your exact spot.
ObanLive southern lights forecasts for 22 places across New Zealand, ordered by how little geomagnetic activity they need — from Oban (Kp 6+) to Hokitika (Kp 9+). Pick a city for tonight's live odds, or get an instant answer for your exact location.
southern lights forecasts in New Zealand
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The Kp figure beside each city is the geomagnetic activity its latitude needs before the aurora climbs into view — lower is better. But a strong Kp is never the whole story: you also need a dark sky, clear weather and little moonlight. Our live forecast folds all four together for any spot, and the where-to-see guide explains how far the oval reaches.
Plan the trip
Tours, stays and wheels
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Aurora cabins & lodges
Cabins, lodges and aurora-view stays near New Zealand — settle in and watch the lights.
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Rent a car to chase clear skies
Self-drive to dark-sky spots away from town glow. Compare every local supplier.
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Cover the trip
Travel medical cover for a trip to New Zealand — remote, cold and weather-dependent — from a few dollars a day.
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