Solar Eclipse 2028 - Dunedin goes Dark Mode
On Saturday 22 July 2028, Dunedin will have its moment in the sun. Ironically, just as the moon blocks it out.
A total solar eclipse is regarded as one of the most beautiful sights in the natural world, and Dunedin will be one of the best places on the planet to see it.
It's not every day the sun disappears in the middle of the afternoon. Even here. So don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.
Countdown to totality
What is a total eclipse?
A total solar eclipse is when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun. The path of totality – the narrow band where the sun disappears completely, is just a few hundred kilometres wide. Outside it, the Sun is merely dimmed. Inside, night suddenly arrives.
Dunedin sits right on the centreline of that path, placing it among the best viewing locations on Earth.
Eclipses are not uncommon. But being in total eclipse is.
Dunedin last saw a total eclipse in1163 and after July 2028, the next one will be 2431
This is a once-in-a-many-lifetimes event.
Why Dunedin?
In Dunedin, the eclipse will arrive in late afternoon with the darkened sun sitting low against the trees, cityscape and harbour, while in Sydney, the Sun will sit high in the sky. Dunedin offers a genuinely rare photographic and visual opportunity that no other city in the path will offer in quite the same way.
Aotearoa New Zealand’s time of the stars - Matariki
The eclipse falls days after Matariki mā Puaka, the Māori New Year – creating a rare opportunity to bring together mātauranga Māori, astronomy, and contemporary science in one globally significant celebration.
There will be a city-wide programme of events, performances, workshops, exhibitions, storytelling, stargazing, kai, and community celebrations.
Come for the eclipse, and witness the spiritual significance of the stars in this time for remembrance, reflection, celebration, and hope.
FAQs
What if it's cloudy?
Although there are plenty of #dunnerstunner days all year, Dunedin's winter weather is variable, and a completely clear sky can't be guaranteed. But even under heavy cloud, the moment of totality is unmistakable: daylight collapses to an eerie steel twilight, the temperature drops, and the sky settles into a strange stillness.
Who will come?
Like tornado chasers, eclipses bring a global audience who arrive in their thousands; people who travel the world to see these rare moments.
And for others, the eclipse is an excuse to come to Aotearoa New Zealand, to see our shores, enjoy our city and to take part in the meaning and mana of matariki.
Accommodation and flights are booking out fast, arrange your trip today.
What is the city doing to celebrate?
Planning is underway for this one of a kind event, with curated viewing platforms where both our visitors and our community can share the experience.
As we get closer to 2028, we will be announcing our programme celebrating the stars. Sign up and know about it first.