Observatories
Explore the observatories helping connect people with astronomy, space science and the night sky across Wairarapa.
Why Choose a Guided Experience?
Larger Telescopes
Observatories often house larger telescopes than most people have access to at home, revealing faint galaxies, nebulae and star clusters.
Learn From Experience
Observatories bring together people with years of observing experience, creating opportunities to learn about astronomy and the night sky.
More Than A Telescope
Many observatories offer much more than telescope viewing, including astronomy talks, exhibitions, gardens, observatory buildings and spaces designed for learning and exploration.
Explore Observatories
PRIVATE OBSERVATORY
Star Safari Observatory
Located near Martinborough in the heart of the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve, Star Safari Observatory offers visitors access to a collection of large telescopes, including one of New Zealand’s largest privately operated refracting telescopes. From the Moon and planets to distant nebulae, star clusters and galaxies, guests can explore the universe beneath some of the darkest accessible skies in the country.
The observatory also features astronomy presentations, solar observing, astrophotography equipment and purpose-built facilities designed to help visitors experience the night sky in comfort and confidence.
Best for:
Visitors
Families
Tourists
Private experiences
ASTROPHOGRAPHY OBSERVATORY
Cretney Observatory
Located within the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve near Martinborough, the Cretney Observatory is a remote astronomical imaging facility operated by the Wellington Astronomical Society. Equipped with a large research-grade telescope and advanced imaging equipment, the observatory supports deep-sky astrophotography and astronomical observation beneath some of the North Island’s darkest skies.
The facility is operated remotely via the internet and is available to trained members of the Wellington Astronomical Society. While not generally open for public visits, the observatory plays an important role in supporting astronomy education, imaging and observational activities.
Best for:
Wellington Astronomical Society members
COMMUNITY OBSERVATORY
The Phoenix Astronomical Society Observatory
Based in Carterton, the Phoenix Astronomical Society is a welcoming community of astronomy enthusiasts, observers and astrophotographers from across Wellington, Wairarapa, and beyond. The society hosts regular meetings, guest speakers, observing sessions and public outreach activities, helping people of all ages connect with astronomy and the night sky.
Members have access to a range of telescopes and observing equipment, while visitors are welcome to attend many meetings and events. The society also supports initiatives such as Carterton Space Week and plays an active role in promoting astronomy throughout the region.
Best for:
Community
Learning
Long-term involvement
Continue exploring
Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve
Discover the story, landscapes and communities that make up one of only two International Dark Sky Reserves in New Zealand.
