Twilight over Mt Pukanui, Rangitata Valley

With the skies darkening after sunset and the cool crisp air cloud-free, I decided to go for a little drive up the Rangitata Gorge Road after dinner to see what night shot opportunities were available.

Mrs H at my side, a flask of tea and a small bit of chocolate to keep the inner fire burning (ahem) I set out towards the foothills, climbing away from Peel Forest village until we met these sheepyards just before Waikari Road - the home of Rangitata Rafts.

As you'd expect, the rafting company have made their home just at the end of the rapids in the twisty part of the Rangitata Gorge as it snakes its way pass the foot of the Moorhouse Range.

As Astronomical Twilight fell, the pink blush over the mountains intensified and, one by one, more stars became visible until the whole sky seemed to be twinkling under their light. Suffice to say, the night sky out here is dark, with very little night pollution. It will be fun to come out here in the depth of night once the Milky Way's galactic core is visible in the more sensible hours of the night... As long as my co-pilot and steaming hot beverages come along to keep me company of course!