It is a privilege to be able to teach about the night sky. Just like any other knowledge system, stargazing has to be delivered just right. We want people to think “I can’t wait to go stargazing again.”, rather than “I’ve done the stargazing (once), I don’t need to do it again”. We want people to come back to Wairarapa again and again.
So we want you to deliver a stellar introduction to the night sky, find your way around binoculars and telescopes, and tell the story of our Wairarapa International Dark Sky Reserve.
And learning about stargazing and astronomy will also help protect our extraordinary night sky better.
The Dark Sky Capability Course is created by Hari and Sam of Milky-Way.Kiwi and successfully ran as a pilot in 2024, then again in 2025.
Both sessions were sold out. So we are getting a third one going!
Learn how to tell your unique sky story, astronomy basics and seasonal sky features and how to guide an evening experience that’s safe, inspiring, and credible. Learn about the business value of astro-tourism and dark sky tourism and how to align with dark sky principles and light pollution awareness. And learn how to market your stargazing offer effectively.
Since 2009, Milky-Way.Kiwi has made astronomy accessible, relevant to New Zealand, and easy to understand. We cut through the noise to bring you straightforward astronomical insights, practical astro-tourism advice, and inspiring stories—empowering you to truly enjoy, appreciate, and learn how to protect our magnificent night sky.
We (Hari and Sam) also run Star Safari, a thriving astro-tourism business right here in Wairarapa—we know exactly what works, and we’ll show you how to do the same.
We also invited a series of speakers from across the region to talk about tourism, business, and dark sky leadership. Hear from:
Jack Newman – cost-saving lighting expert
Cimone Grayson – Māori sky perspectives
Charlotte Harding – Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve
Anna Nielson – Destination Wairarapa
The stars are already working for Wairarapa — make sure they’re working for your business too.
Join the next Dark Sky Business Capabilities Course and turn your night sky into your next big opportunity.