Aurora Australis sightings in New Zealand

The story so far

Experts suggested the Aurora Australis might be visible in New Zealand from Monday night on 1 September 2025, and a possible auroral storm warning was issued, though cloud and rain could obscure the view on the South Island's west coast.^{1 Sep 2025} On 2 September, a strong coronal mass ejection from the sun was expected to reach Earth's magnetic field and potentially create an aurora display.^{2 Sep 2025} Sightings could extend as far north as Auckland, but the best viewing was likely in southern locations, where the chance of seeing it was considered very high.^{2 Sep 2025} On 1 October, bright aurora displays were visible across the South Island on the Wednesday night, and photographers captured the colourful lights in areas including Southland, Twizel and Tasman.^{2 Oct 2025}

Latest

The most recent report says bright aurora displays were seen across the South Island on a Wednesday night, with photographs taken in Southland, Twizel and Tasman.^{2 Oct 2025}

Key moments

1. 1 Sep 2025Possible aurora visibility from Monday night, with a storm warning and cloud cover risk
2. 2 Sep 2025Strong coronal mass ejection expected to reach Earth, with possible sightings as far north as Auckland
3. 2 Oct 2025Bright aurora displays seen across the South Island, photographed in several areas

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.