In 1988 DarkSky International  (formerly known as the International Dark Sky Association) was founded in the United States to “to preserve and protect the night time environment and our heritage of dark skies through quality outdoor lighting.” To promote awareness about the issues, DarkSky International has an International Dark Sky Places program that aims "to encourage communities, parks and protected areas around the world to preserve and protect dark sites through responsible lighting policies and public education."

There are currently five types of designation for International Dark Sky Places: 

• International Dark Sky Sanctuaries
• International Dark Sky Parks
• International Dark Sky Reserves
• International Dark Sky Communities
• Urban Night Sky Places

Globally there are 250 designated Dark Sky Places with 8 in New Zealand. The current president of DSI’s board is the New Zealand representative, Naylani Brito-Davies. In the last 5 years, 6 sites have been designated within New Zealand and the International Starlight Conference held in Tekapo in October 2024 highlighted New Zealand’s importance in the global Dark Skies movement. 

Dark Sky places play multiple roles including stimulating and enhancing slow tourism and associated economic development opportunities; creating pathways to decarbonisation; recognisable conservation and biodiversity enhancements; improved community identity and social engagement; and improved quality of life for residents through the reduction of light pollution. Unlike other forms of pollution, light pollution is easier to solve, and the positive changes are often immediate and are both well appreciated by residents and an attraction for visitors.