What Is Night Sky Friendly Lighting?
In New Zealand, we’re lucky to enjoy some of the clearest, most beautiful night skies in the world. From stargazing in the Mackenzie Basin to catching the Milky Way over Kaikōura, it’s easy to forget how rare these experiences are globally. But with growing development across the country and cities increasing in size - the use and need for outdoor lighting is increasing - and our pristine dark skies are under threat. That is unless we make conscious choices about how we light our homes and businesses.
That’s where Night Sky Friendly Lighting comes in.
Whether you're passionate about astronomy, protecting wildlife, or simply doing your bit for the environment, this guide will shine a light on how we can all help reduce light pollution in our own backyards.
What Is Night Sky Friendly Lighting?
Also known as dark sky lighting, night sky friendly lighting is a way of designing and using outdoor light that reduces light pollution - particularly the glow that spills into the sky and drowns out the stars. It focuses on keeping light directed downwards rather than up, using just the right amount of brightness, and choosing warm, soft tones that don’t disrupt the natural darkness.
A night-sky-friendly light fitting typically has shielding that prevents upward glare, a warm colour temperature (ideally below 3000K), and is paired with controls like timers or motion sensors to ensure it’s only on when necessary. The aim isn’t to get rid of outdoor lighting altogether, but to use it thoughtfully - lighting only what we need, when we need it, and in a way that respects our shared night sky.
Not only does this approach protect views of the stars, but it also supports wildlife and energy efficiency. It’s a small shift with big benefits - and it starts with the lights we choose at home.
Night Sky Friendly Lighting And New Zealand
Here in Aotearoa, we’re fortunate to have some of the darkest, most spectacular skies in the world. In fact, the Milky Way is still visible from most parts of the country - something that’s become incredibly rare in many other places. But even in New Zealand, light pollution is increasing as towns grow. With more homes and businesses, the need to install outdoor lighting also increases.
Thankfully, many regions are already taking steps to protect our natural nightscapes. Places like the Mackenzie Basin, Wairarapa, Stewart Island, Kaikōura, and Glenorchy have earned official recognition as Dark Sky Reserves or Sanctuaries - meaning they’ve made a commitment to keeping their skies as clear and light-free as possible. These areas attract astro-tourism, support local ecosystems, and serve as an inspiring reminder of how we can balance development with preservation.
The good news is, you don’t need to live in a Dark Sky Reserve to make a difference. By choosing the right lighting at home, you can help reduce light pollution in your own neighbourhood - and play a part in protecting the incredible night skies that make New Zealand so unique.
How Kiwis Can Contribute to Dark Sky Preservation
You don’t have to live near a certified dark sky reserve to make a difference. Light pollution starts at a local level - in backyards, driveways, and on building exteriors. By making a few smart choices at home, every New Zealander can help protect our night skies, reduce unnecessary light spill, and support a darker, more natural environment.
Here’s how you can do your part, starting right where you are:
Use Fixtures with Downwards Light
Look for outdoor lights with downward light only, so the light is directed downwards where it’s needed - rather than up into the sky or out into a neighbours yard. These designs help reduce glare, prevent skyglow and light wastage and create a cleaner, more focused lighting effect.
Look for designed with low ULOR or 'night sky compliant' models in our Outdoor Lighting section.
Choose Warm Colour Temperatures
Swap out cool white bulbs for warm white options with a colour temperature of 3000K or less. These warmer tones are not only easier on the eyes, but they also produce less blue light, which is the main culprit behind artificial skyglow. You can now find 'Night Sky Friendly' specific lighting, like our Kea and Tui Solar Bollard lights, designed with protecting the night sky in mind, using a very special 590 nanometre wave length of light for wildlife protection.
Check out our other wildlife and night sky friendly solar bollards here.
Install Motion Sensors or Timers
Incorporate motion sensors, timers, or dusk-to-dawn switches to ensure outdoor lights are only on when they’re actually needed. This not only cuts down on wasted energy, but also reduces the amount of light pollution your home contributes overnight.
Look out for tools such as 'Smart Control Switches' or browse 'Sensor Lights' for options that automate outdoor lighting.
Keep Outdoor Lights Low and Local
Install outdoor lighting as low to the ground as possible and aim it only at the specific areas you want lit - like paths, steps or entrances. Avoid floodlighting large open areas unnecessarily, as this often causes excessive light spill and glare.
Get Involved with Dark Sky Communities
Get involved with local dark sky initiatives, or simply follow their lighting guidelines at home. Whether you live in a dark sky reserve or not, showing support helps build awareness and keeps the movement growing across Aotearoa.
Visit sites like darkskynz.org or dsnnz.org to learn more.
