On New Zealand's Aotea Island, Using the Stars to Get My Bearings

Title: Stargazing and Indigenous Navigation on New Zealand's Aotea Island The article highlights Aotea Island, a designated dark sky sanctuary near Auckland, New Zealand, as an exceptional location for stargazing and learning about Māori celestial navigation. Aotea's remote location and lack of light pollution create an ideal environment for observing the night sky. The author describes how they participated in a guided stargazing experience, where they learned about Māori star knowledge and traditional wayfinding techniques using the stars. The article emphasizes the importance of these ancient Māori practices, which were essential for ocean voyaging and land-based navigation. It also touches on the cultural significance of the night sky in Māori mythology and spirituality. The author's experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the land and appreciate the depth of Māori traditional knowledge. The article highlights the value of preserving and sharing indigenous wisdom, particularly in the context of sustainable tourism and environmental conservation on Aotea Island.