On the 11th of May, intense solar activity meant that the Aurora Australis was visible in Hamilton.

Normally the Aurora Australis is only visible in the South Island during the winter months, but a combination of clear skies and some severe solar storms meant that the southern lights were clearly visible in the night sky over Argyle House. I can safely say as a long-time Hamilton resident, I have never seen anything like this!

Aurora is caused by solar winds composed of energy and particles hitting the Earth's electromagnetic field. They are most clearly visible in winter as you get closer to either the North or South Poles.

Best tips for viewing the aurora if you get a chance... look through your phone camera and use a night setting if taking photos.