Stargazing Tour Guide

Hello everyone! I am Brian, the manager at the Pukaki Observatory & Wine Cellar, located just outside of Twizel at the Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat. We are looking for a stargazing guide to join our team! The position starts at the end of June or the first week of July. Located directly in the middle of the world’s largest gold-tier Dark Sky Reserve, this role is perfect for someone with a science background, particularly in space science, astronomy or astrophysics, who loves storytelling and educating people about the universe. Even if you have the science background but are not familiar with telescope use, I can train you on our 9.25" Celestron SCT telescope.

In this role, you will lead 90 minute stargazing tours five days a week. Twice a week, you will also get to participate in our "Cosmic Chat" program by giving short, 20 minute, talks on a science topic of your choice.

The position offers a very competitive pay rate of 30-35 NZD per hour depending on experience. We also offer very cheap single-occupancy housing on our beautiful 66-acre property with views of the Ben Ohau range and modern communal facilities. A car is highly recommended for this semi-remote location. If you are interested or know someone who might be a good fit, please reach out to me directly, or learn more about us at: https://mtcookretreat.nz/stargazing/