Convincing UNESCO to look up instead of just around was key for the man who established the McKenzie region's Dark Sky Reserve.

Graeme Murray is now a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to tourism and conservation.

He became closely involved in the successful initiative for the Tekapo sky to be recognised as a Gold Status International Reserve.

Murray says attending the first UNESCO Starlight Conference was the highlight of his life.

"That was the charge to try and convince UNESCO turn their heads upwards, don't just look downwards and below.

"And we did accomplish that mission with some success, and that shook a few foundations."

He helped the Aoraki/Mackenzie region get recognition as one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the World.

Murray's also been a major figure in the development of Lake Tekapo, which he states is no longer just a drive through town.

"It's become much more than a transit town.

"People are coming now to stay for two or three nights with all those attractions both by day and by night. It's unique to have something special to do at night here."