An enchanting display of the Aurora Australis illuminated the skies over Bay of Plenty on Sunday night, captivating residents with vibrant hues captured by local photographers, including John van den Broek in Tauranga and Jessica Barnes at Lake Tarawera. Foreseen by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s space weather prediction center, the aurora’s striking colors—ranging from purple to green—were best viewed in clear skies. Witnesses noted the phenomenon was particularly vivid for about half an hour. This spectacle marks a continuation of sightings of the Southern Lights, which have amazed Kiwis throughout the year, especially during solar activity events that disrupt the magnetosphere. Ideal spots for future viewing include Great Barrier Island and various dark sky reserves across New Zealand.