New Zealand Birdlings Flat for the night sky

Birdlings Flat is a long stony beach that runs along the sea side of the split between Lake Ellesmere and the sea. Its far enough away from Christchurch city to offer amazing views of the night sky.
Viewing the Aurora Australis is possible if you look south when there is solar activity. Note that this only visible this far north in a 5 plus solar storm, with a clear sky and no moon.

It is very dark, get a red head torch as red light does not effect your night vision as much as white light.
If you have not photographed the night sky before, do some research before heading out and learn to focus your gear manually in the dark. Its not easy, but try using live view magnify a bright star.
A fast prime lens will help a lot with a 14mm 2.8 and 24mm 1.4mm manual lenses being the go to gear from most night photographers.

Birdlings Flats is about 45-50 minutes drive from Christchurch on the road to Akaroa. It is always advisable to use a degree of caution at night and to take a friend to any remote location.
There is no cell phone coverage so be careful.
Don't get too close to the sea if the waves are up as there is the occasional big one.
It is very exposed in a winter southerly, so bring plenty of wind proof layers.