Keen aurora watcher Taichi Nakamura, who shared images of a spectacular display in the sky near Invercargill, said the "huge display" lasted most of the night. "The aurora kept pulsing and covered the entire sky, making it an exciting night being with the dancing light." Dunedin astronomer Dr Ian Griffin said the aurora were caused by a severe G4 geomagnetic storm. Photo: Taichi NakamuraDr Griffin said the storm meant more aurora may be visible across southern skies for the next few days. Sometimes, it will remove South Island electricity transmission lines from service to prevent damage to critical equipment.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 21, 2026 02:46 UTC