In October 2023, Carterton joined the global celebration of World Space Week for the very first time. From 4–10 October, our community with the support from Go-Carterton, came together to mark this annual United Nations–endorsed event, which recognises the historic milestones of the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 and the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. The theme for 2023 was “Space and Entrepreneurship”—a perfect fit for Wairarapa, where creativity, innovation, and community spirit are always at the forefront.
A Week of Stellar Events
Our absolute champion for the year was Lou Newman, who enthusiastically supported the cause, talked to businesses, and rallied everyone who was available to support it. A massive shout-out to Lou for all the work!
What was on
Across the week, Carterton hosted a diverse programme of events that brought space to life for people of all ages. Families explored the town centre through a Space Scavenger Hunt, children coloured the cosmos in the Creative Cosmos colouring-in competition, and even local businesses joined in with special offerings like Space Nails at Orly Boutique and themed treats at Kainga Eatery.
Books and imagination came together during Space Story Time at Almo’s Books, where readers of all ages enjoyed tales of the stars. At Carrington Park, rockets soared skyward in a cloudy-powered morning of water rocket launches, supported by the good people from The Phoenix Astronomical Society. The water rocket event had a great attendance.
For those keen to experience the wonders of the night sky, Star Safari Observatory opened its doors for a special Open Night, giving visitors the chance to see planets, stars, and galaxies from within the Wairarapa International Dark Sky Reserve. The Future Space Entrepreneurs planetarium shows at the Carterton Events Centre offered another way to journey among the stars—this time from the comfort of a dome theatre.
Building a Space-Inspired Future
Beyond the family fun, Carterton Space Week also sparked conversations about the future of space and our place in it. Events like the Dark Sky Connections event connected local businesses and the community with the opportunities our night skies bring.
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Our first Carterton Space Week was an outstanding success, blending education, creativity, and community celebration. It showed what can happen when local businesses, educators, and astronomy enthusiasts work together to make space accessible and inspiring for everyone.
We are proud that Carterton has added its voice to the worldwide chorus celebrating space science and exploration. This was just the beginning—Carterton Space Week will return, and we look forward to building on this stellar foundation in the years to come.
