The Stardome Observatory & Planetarium sits within the One Tree Hill Domain / Maungakiekie in Epsom, offering Auckland’s only public planetarium alongside telescope viewing and Māori astronomy programmes. The facility runs both daytime and evening sessions, with planetarium shows covering the solar system, night sky navigation, and New Zealand’s indigenous astronomical traditions. Evening sessions include telescope viewing through the public dome, weather permitting.
Practical Information
| Location | 670 Manukau Rd, Epsom, Auckland (within One Tree Hill Domain) |
| Hours | Mon–Sun 9:30am–5pm; evening sessions Tue–Sun from 6pm (gate locks 9pm) |
| Planetarium shows | Tuesday–Sunday (not Mondays); times vary — check website |
| Evening telescope viewing | Tue–Sun evenings, weather permitting |
| Entry/shows | Ticketed — check stardome.org.nz for current prices and show schedule |
| Getting there | 670 Manukau Rd — parking available within One Tree Hill Domain; accessible by bus from central Auckland |
| Website | stardome.org.nz |
About the Stardome
The Stardome Observatory opened in 1967 as Auckland’s first public observatory, and the current facility — expanded and upgraded over the decades — includes a 75-seat digital planetarium, two telescope domes, gallery and exhibition space, and a retail shop. It is operated by the Auckland Observatory and Planetarium Trust and serves both the general public and school groups.
The planetarium uses full-dome digital projection to simulate the night sky and deliver immersive astronomy shows. The Grand Tour of the Solar System (suitable for ages 7 and up, approximately 50 minutes) is one of the regular features, taking audiences through the planets with current scientific imagery. Māori astronomy shows are programmed year-round, covering the traditional Māori star calendar and its relationship to seasonal life in Aotearoa.
Shows and Evening Viewing
Planetarium shows run Tuesday through Sunday — not on Mondays. Show times and titles vary; check the Stardome website before visiting as the programme rotates. Booking in advance is recommended for evening sessions and popular shows.
Evening sessions (Tuesday–Sunday from 6pm) include telescope viewing through the public dome, subject to cloud cover. The Stardome’s location within the One Tree Hill Domain, away from the brightest CBD light pollution, makes it one of the better urban sites in Auckland for telescope viewing. Laser events and special music nights are also programmed periodically — check the events calendar for current listings.
Māori Astronomy
The Stardome runs dedicated Māori astronomy programmes year-round, covering Te Kāhui o Matariki (the Pleiades, used as the Māori New Year marker), traditional star navigation, and the relationship between celestial bodies and agricultural and fishing calendars. These programmes are available for both school groups and public sessions.
What visitors say
“The Māori astronomy show was unlike anything I’d seen at a planetarium before — genuinely interesting reframing of the night sky. The evening telescope session after was a bonus.” — visitor account, TripAdvisor
“Great for kids — the full dome experience is impressive and the staff were patient with all the questions. The location inside the Domain means you can combine it with a walk.” — visitor account, Google Reviews
Where to learn more
Stardome — What’s On: Current show schedule, evening session times, events calendar, and ticket prices.
Stardome — Plan Your Visit: Location, parking, accessibility, and group booking information.
FAQ
Do I need to book in advance for Stardome shows?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for evening sessions and school holiday periods. Check stardome.org.nz for current availability and ticket prices.
Are shows on every day?
Planetarium shows run Tuesday through Sunday. The facility is open on Mondays for daytime visits but does not run planetarium shows that day.
Can I see through the telescope?
Public telescope viewing is available on Tuesday–Sunday evenings, weather permitting. Cloud cover will cancel viewing sessions — the Stardome provides updates on the evening before or on the day.
Where is the Stardome located?
670 Manukau Rd, Epsom — within the One Tree Hill Domain / Maungakiekie. Parking is available within the Domain, and bus routes connect the area to central Auckland.
Is the Stardome suitable for soung children?
Yes, though recommended ages vary by show — the Grand Tour of the Solar System is designed for ages 7 and up. Check the Stardome website for age guidance on individual shows.
The Stardome is set within the One Tree Hill Domain, one of Auckland’s most significant volcanic parks. For more to see and do nearby, see the Auckland Parks and Reserves guide.