A raging solar storm has given way to a glorious array of lights in the skies above the lower South Island.
Images of yesterday's solar phenomenon, the Aurora Australis, showed gentle hues of pink, yellow and blue lighting up the sky in areas of the south below Christchurch.
Astronomer Ian Griffin said the solar storm was now fading, but hopeful residents could try their luck again tonight.
"If sky is clear, go out over sunset and look to the south, where the aurora originates from."