2028 Solar Eclipse in Australia & New Zealand: A Southern Hemisphere Spectacle

Travelite 360
10月27日
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已更新：10月27日

An AI-generated image of Circular Quay, Bondi Beach in Australia during a solar eclipse.

The 2028 Solar Eclipse will bring one of the most remarkable astronomical events to the Southern Hemisphere — and for once, the shadow of the moon will sweep directly over a major world city. On July 22, 2028, totality will cross Australia from the rugged Kimberley region to Sydney, before arcing toward New Zealand’s South Island. For travelers, it’s a rare chance to witness the sun’s disappearance above beaches, mountains, and winter skies aglow with stars.

Ready to plan your eclipse adventure? Read our Complete Guide to Solar Eclipse Travel for expert advice on where to go, what to pack, and how to view safely.

Overview: The 2028 Total Solar Eclipse

Date: July 22, 2028
Path of Totality: Western Australia → Northern Territory → Queensland → New South Wales → New Zealand
Peak Time: Around 10:45 am in the Kimberley, 2:00 pm in Sydney, 4:15 pm across parts of New Zealand
Duration: Approximately 3–4 minutes depending on location

In the Southern Hemisphere, late July signifies winter. In Australia, Sydney provides a unique urban setting, whereas the remote Outback regions offer the best viewing opportunities. New Zealand's cities and mountains are easily accessible, although they come with a higher likelihood of cloud cover. You can anticipate crisp air, snow-covered mountains, and nighttime temperatures that may fall below freezing. Tour and cruise packages are just beginning to be organized, making it an ideal time to start planning.

The crisp air and high visibility of mid-winter in the Southern Hemisphere creates excellent conditions for photography. Australia offers both remote wilderness and urban accessibility, while New Zealand’s alpine scenery adds drama to the finale of the eclipse path.

Australia: Outback Horizons & Urban Skylines

An AI generated image of the Sydney Opera House skyline set against a solar eclipse.

Few eclipses pass directly over a capital city — and Sydney will offer an unforgettable backdrop, with totality visible right above the harbour. Remote areas throughout the Outback offer expansive horizons and clearer skies, though they have limited accommodations. The Kimberly region in Western Australia, as well as parts of the Northern Territory and Queensland, present the best weather conditions and longest duration of totality. Sydney, while unparalleled in accessibility and known for its vibrant party scene, carries a higher likelihood of cloud cover.

Where to View

Sydney: Watch the eclipse from Circular Quay, Bondi Beach, or the Harbour Bridge for an iconic cityscape. Discover the renowned Opera House, take a walk along Bondi and Manly beaches, or immerse yourself in vibrant neighborhoods like Surry Hills for its culinary offerings and Darlinghurst for its energetic nightlife.
New South Wales: Bourke features historic pubs, local museums, and an Outback getaway along the Darling River, whereas Dubbo boasts river walks and regional art galleries.
The Kimberley (Western Australia): Remote and cloud-free, ideal for pristine sky views from Kununurra, Wyndham, and Lake Argyle, all portals to expansive vistas and timeworn rock formations in Purnululu National Park.
Northern Territory: Experience the outback allure of Tennant Creek, where historical landmarks and formations such as the Devils Marbles offer breathtaking desert views with their remarkable granite formations.
Queensland: Thargomindah and Bedourie blend small-town hospitality with sweeping Outback horizons.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney – This waterfront classic provides excellent views of the Opera House, featuring stylish rooms, a lively lobby bar, and an outdoor pool.
Shangri-La Sydney – Situated high above The Rocks, renowned for its stunning floor-to-ceiling harbour views and featuring one of the city's top sky-facing restaurants.
Travelite360’s Shangri-La partner benefits include a $50-$100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
InterContinental Sydney – Located in a renovated heritage building near Circular Quay, this elegant hotel combines historic architecture with contemporary interiors and harbor views.
Travelite360's IHG Destined partner benefits include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

New Zealand: Alpine Drama & Winter Magic

An AI generated image of the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak in Queenstown, Australia.

The path’s later arc brings totality to the South Island, where snow-tipped peaks and mirrored lakes amplify the eclipse’s visual impact. The eclipse will take place amidst alpine peaks, glacial lakes, and cities such as Queenstown and Dunedin. The winter season also makes it an ideal time for skiing, exploring glaciers like Franz Josef, or visiting numerous spas in the area. Even with the colder weather, large festivals and community events are being organized throughout the South Island.

Where to View

Queenstown: Stroll along the lakefront, explore the boutiques and cafés in the downtown area, and ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for stunning views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu.
Central Otago: From the art deco allure of Ranfurly to the riverside strolls in Alexandra and the historic orchards of Roxburgh, the region combines outdoor adventure with local culture.
Fiordland National Park: Explore Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, fjords where alpine peaks meet water adventures, offering a uniquely immersive view of the eclipse.
Dunedin: Discover Victorian and Edwardian architecture while enjoying expansive harbor views that create the perfect backdrop for a memorable eclipse experience.

Where to Stay

Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa (Queenstown): Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this establishment blends modern elegance with spacious accommodations and a lakeside spa.
Travelite360's Accor Preferred partner benefits include a $100 property credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Rosewood Matakauri (Queenstown): This luxurious retreat is set in a secluded lakeside location, surrounded by the Remarkables mountains, and features floor-to-ceiling windows and private decks.
Travelite360's Rosewood Elite partner benefits include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Blanket Bay (Glenorchy): Blanket Bay, a traditional New Zealand lodge situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, combines rustic charm with five-star service and guided alpine adventures.
Travelite360's partner benefits include a $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Eclipse Cruises & Experiences

Coastal Australia Voyages: From Darwin to Sydney with offshore eclipse viewing.
Tasman Sea Crossings: Combine both countries on a winter sailing linking Sydney and Auckland.
Fiordland Cruises: Observe totality reflected in the still waters of Milford or Doubtful Sound.

Travel Tips for the 2028 Eclipse

Dress for Winter: Expect cold mornings and sub-freezing nights in inland or alpine areas.
Book Early: Sydney hotels and South Island lodges will sell out far in advance.
Use ISO-Certified Glasses: Only safe way to view the eclipse outside totality.
Combine Experiences: Add skiing, vineyard tours, or spa retreats for a balanced trip.

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