Last updated July 2026
The Te Whatu Stardome (formerly Stardome Observatory & Planetarium) is located within Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill Domain in Epsom, Auckland. It provides Auckland’s public planetarium with immersive shows on astronomy, the solar system and Māori star knowledge, plus evening telescope viewing sessions. The facility operates daytime and evening programmes and is managed by the Auckland Observatory and Planetarium Trust.
Practical Information
| Location | 670 Manukau Rd, Epsom, Auckland (within Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill Domain) |
| Hours | Daily 9:30am–5pm; evening sessions Tuesday–Sunday from 6pm (weather permitting) |
| Planetarium shows | Tuesday–Sunday; times and titles vary — check website |
| Evening telescope viewing | Tuesday–Sunday evenings, weather permitting |
| Entry / shows | Ticketed — check stardome.org.nz for current prices and schedule |
| Getting there | Parking available in the Domain; bus services from central Auckland |
| Website | stardome.org.nz |
About Te Whatu Stardome
Te Whatu Stardome opened as Auckland’s public observatory in 1967 and added its current 75-seat digital planetarium in 1997. The 1,000 square metre facility includes two telescope domes, gallery and exhibition space, a retail shop and education areas. It is operated by the Auckland Observatory and Planetarium Trust and serves both public visitors and school groups.
The planetarium uses full-dome digital projection for immersive shows. Regular programmes include solar system tours suitable for ages 7 and up, plus dedicated Māori astronomy sessions that explore traditional star calendars and navigation. The site sits in a darker part of the Domain, reducing some urban light pollution for evening viewing.
Stardome functions as both an entertainment and education venue, offering live presenter-led shows alongside exhibits. It maintains strong ties with the Auckland Astronomical Society, which holds regular meetings on site and contributes to public outreach.
Shows and Evening Viewing
Planetarium shows run Tuesday through Sunday. The programme rotates and features titles such as solar system tours and seasonal sky presentations. Advance booking is recommended, especially during school holidays and for popular sessions.
Evening sessions (Tuesday–Sunday from 6pm) include public telescope viewing through the main dome when weather allows. Updates on cancellations due to cloud cover are provided on the website or by phone. Special events, including music nights and themed laser shows, are scheduled periodically.
Māori Astronomy Programmes
Te Whatu Stardome offers regular Māori astronomy shows year-round. These cover Te Kāhui o Matariki (the Pleiades), traditional navigation methods and the links between celestial observations and seasonal activities such as fishing and agriculture. Sessions are available for both public audiences and school groups, integrating mātauranga Māori with contemporary astronomy.
What Visitors Often Say
The Māori astronomy shows provide a fresh perspective on the night sky that many visitors find engaging and different from standard planetarium content. Evening telescope sessions are a popular add-on when conditions are clear.
Families appreciate the immersive full-dome experience and note that staff handle children’s questions well. The Domain location allows easy combination with walks or picnics before or after a visit.
Where to Learn More
Te Whatu Stardome official website: Current show schedule, ticket prices, evening session details and events calendar.
NewZealand.com listing: Official tourism overview with opening times and visitor information.
Wikipedia (Stardome Observatory): Historical background, facility details and research activities with cited sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book in advance for Te Whatu Stardome shows?
Advance booking is recommended, particularly for evening sessions and during school holidays. Check stardome.org.nz for availability and prices.
Are planetarium shows held every day?
Shows run Tuesday through Sunday. The facility is open Mondays for daytime visits but does not schedule planetarium shows that day.
Can I view through the telescopes?
Public telescope viewing is available Tuesday–Sunday evenings, weather permitting. Sessions may be cancelled due to cloud cover; check the website or phone for updates.
Where is Te Whatu Stardome located?
670 Manukau Road, Epsom, within Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill Domain. On-site parking is available and bus routes serve the area from central Auckland.
Is the planetarium suitable for young children?
Yes, though age recommendations vary by show. The Grand Tour of the Solar System is designed for ages 7 and up; check the website for guidance on specific programmes.
Does Te Whatu Stardome offer Māori astronomy content?
Regular Māori astronomy shows run throughout the year, covering traditional star knowledge, Matariki and seasonal calendars alongside Western astronomy.
Are there any accessibility features?
The facility includes accessible seating and pathways; contact the venue directly for specific requirements or group arrangements.
Can I combine a visit with other activities in the Domain?
The Domain offers walking tracks, picnic areas and views of Maungakiekie; many visitors plan combined outings.
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