Our People
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve (AMIDSR) is managed by a board of dedicated people with wide ranging skills and interests. Our purpose is to preserve the dark sky reserve, provide outreach and education, promote star-gazing and astro-tourism, and protect astronomical research at Mt John University Observatory. We are a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand.
Our Mission
To maintain formal accreditation as a Dark Sky Reserve from the International Dark Sky Association (IDA), by working with key stakeholders and engaging with local communities to preserve the quality of the natural night skies through responsible lighting policies, actions, and public education.
Our Vision
That the quality of the natural night skies of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve are protected against light pollution – now and in perpetuity – and the reserve is recognised in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally as a centre for astro-tourism and public education.
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Steve Butler
Chair of the AMIDSR Board
Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand (RASNZ), leader of the RASNZ DarkSkies Group, and member of DarkSky International.
Bruce Mincham
Treasurer
Representing the community of Twizel.
Alan Gilmore
Astronomer
Past Superintendent of Mt John Observatory, Manager of the Reserve, Lake Tekapo.
Cr Kerry Bellringer
Mackenzie District Council
Representative of the Mackenzie District Council
Gavin 'Snow' Loxton
Farmer and Environmentalist
Gavin manages Sawdon Station near Lake Tekapo.
Victoria Campbell
Secretary
Representing Maori perspectives on Astronomy. Kāi/Ngāi Tahu.
Ursula Paul
Department of Conservation
Representative for the Department of Conservation.
Michele Banister
University of Canterbury
Lecturer in astrophysics at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch.
Adrien Vilquin Barrajon
Astronomer
Member of the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand. He has dedicated his career to the public outreach of astronomy.
Chris Martin
Astronomer
Fellow of the American Physical Society, Member of the International Astronomical Union and its Center for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Skies
Michele Banister
University of Canterbury
Lecturer in astrophysics at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch.
Mike Bacchus
Lakestone Lodge
Member of the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand. Owner/manager and Night Sky Experience guide at Lakestone Lodge, Lake Pukaki
Hon Margaret Austin
Patron
Office of Patron and Project leader for AMIDSR. Advisor on world heritage issues. Companion of NZ Order of Merit.
Amy Menard
Admin/Marketing
Mackenzie Region local and passionate stargazer.