Aurora likely to be visible across New Zealand early on Monday

An aurora is expected to be visible across large parts of New Zealand in the early hours of tomorrow morning.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Centre said the phenomenon is expected to be seen in New Zealand at around 2am.

Predicting the exact timing and intensity is difficult, NOAA said, but it has the potential to become a "significant geomagnetic storm", though not on par with the May 2024 event.

The sun is currently at the peak of its 11-year activity cycle when there are more solar storms, aurorae and sunspots.

Astronomer Rob Davison told 1News in May last year that there were a few key things to remember for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of an aurora.

"Increased solar activity improves the chances of a good auroral display, but it does not guarantee it," he said.

"Aurorae can also peak and then disappear in a relatively short amount of time.

"Getting as far south and as far away from light pollution as possible will improve your chances.

"People should also remember to wrap up warm, as they may need to be outside for some time while their eyes adjust to the dark and while they wait for the peak of any display to appear."