Home to some of the oldest telescopes you'll find anywhere in New Zealand, as well as artefacts, interactive exhibits and a digital planetarium, the Carter Observatory is a fascinating place to visit. Here you can explore the mysteries of Maori, Polynesian and Western astronomy.
In the first gallery, through the various multimedia displays, you’ll learn all about the origins of the universe and whether life on other planets is possible, as well as learning about the myths and legends of the Maori story of creation.
Step into the Solar System gallery, where you can play and touch the orrery, an interactive model of the sun and the planets surrounding it. Pick up the seven-kilogram Gibeon meteorite, a lump of iron and nickel that landed in Namibia after falling from the sky in prehistoric days, and touch a large meteorite that was discovered in China.
To get a closer look at the universe, take a seat in the digital planetarium, recline your chair, gaze upwards and take an amazing journey through the stars. Shows are put on all through the day, including one for very young children. Shows focus on various aspects of space exploration. After the show, if you remain in your seat, you can enjoy a live presentation about the night sky, given by a Carter astronomer. Check the observatory’s website before your visit for information on show details and the programme schedule.
For more star gazing, take a look through the powerful Thomas Cooke telescope. The observatory holds late-night viewings, where visitors may get the chance to see Saturn, Jupiter and Mars, weather permitting.
The Carter Observatory lies in the Kelburn district, two minutes on foot from the top of the Wellington Cable Car in the Wellington Botanic Garden. If you’re driving, there’s paid parking near to the cable car. Alternatively, there are several bus routes that will drop you off nearby on Upland Road. The observatory opens each and every day apart from Christmas Day and 26th December.
