Our friend Gordon told us that while we were in New Zealand, we better take a moment to enjoy the stars.  Not only does New Zealand have clear air and low light pollution, but it is so far south that you get a fabulous view of the southern celestial sky.

Our eyes were drawn especially to the Southern Cross, previously known to us only from song.  Apparently the top reddish star points directly at the southern celestial pole.  Be careful not to mix it up with the Diamond Cross which is nearby.  The Southern Cross is unmistakable once you know that two very bright stars – alpha and beta centauri – “point” directly to it.

The centauri stars are so-named because they are part of the centauri constellation, which was also visible.  That would be Chiron to all you Rick Riordan fans.  Here are the pics from the grounds of Treetops – enjoy.