An increase in visitors hoping to catch the southern lights is resulting in a call for the Catlins to be made a dark sky reserve.

On Wednesday, Owaka Going Forward presented to Southland District Council at a hearing for its long term plan consultation, asking for support in making its dream a reality.

In its submission, the community group referenced a DOC estimate which says more than 100,000 people have visited Nugget Point - a popular Catlins destination - for the 12 months to March 2024.

“Along with the spectacular scenery, precious flora and fauna and vistas on offer in the Catlins, an increasing number of those visiting want to experience and take photos of the amazing aurora lights,” the submission reads.

Located in the southeast corner of the South Island, the Catlins comes under the jurisdiction of both Southland District Council and Clutha District Council.

Owaka Going Forward has already spoken to the latter, which group representative Glenys Hanley says has been supportive, and is now turning its sights on Southland District Council.

It specifically wants support with a lighting policy which would align with dark sky requirements.

“The importance of having a dark sky reserve here is really to highlight the Catlins natural, unique beauty, and its night skies,” says Glenys.

The group pushing for accreditation is a sub-committee of Owaka Going Forward and has registered with DarkSky International.

Although it has paid a registration fee, it's yet to put in a formal application, she says.

If ultimately successful, the area will join six other communities in New Zealand with dark sky accreditation.

Those include dark sky reserves Aoraki Mackenzie, Wai-Iti (Tasman district) and Wairarapa, and dark sky sanctuaries in Oxford, Great Barrier Island/Aotea and Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Glenys says there's ecotourism potential for the Catlins should it gain accreditation, as well as benefits for nature, such as the large native bat population found in the area.

Other benefits include the environment, local economy and educational opportunities for local schools.

Aside from the relevant councils, the group also hopes to work with DOC, Iwi and the community to reach its goal.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.