The Kaikōura Dark Sky Trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Nicky McArthur as its inaugural Patron, recognising her pivotal role in championing the protection of Kaikōura’s night skies.
Nicky’s dark sky journey began in 2013 with her first submissions to the Kaikōura District Council advocating for wildlife friendly lighting to safeguard the Hutton’s shearwater, Kaikōura’s endemic seabird. As founding Chair, she guided the Trust from its establishment through to the milestone achievement of International Dark Sky Sanctuary accreditation in 2024.
“I feel very humbled to be receiving this appointment,” says Nicky. “This journey has been a gift of learning and appreciation of how incredibly important protecting the natural darkness of the night sky is. I look forward to supporting the Trust and helping guide New Zealand towards becoming a true Dark Sky Nation.”
Trust Chair Lisa Bond warmly welcomed Nicky to the new role: “Nicky’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in achieving International Dark Sky Sanctuary status for Kaikōura. Her leadership and passion for protecting our night skies and wildlife continue to inspire our community. We are thrilled to have her ongoing guidance as Patron as we work toward becoming an International Dark Sky Community.”
The Patron role will see Nicky continue to advocate nationally for dark-sky protection while supporting the Trust’s next chapter of community engagement and astro-tourism development.
