Stewart Island has been recognised as one of five global dark spots in the world.

The International Dark Sky Association has established it as a sanctuary for its exceptional nighttime sky.

It joins Great Barrier Island, two areas in the US and one in Chile as special sanctuaries and a number of other dark sky areas.

Steve Canny from Venture Southland is lyrical about the area, saying the designation opens up tourism and business opportunities.

"The Rakiura / Stewart Island is the land of the glowing sky. The recognition really is a perfect scenario."