About Stardome Observatory & Planetarium

Explore, Imagine, Discover!

Part of the fabric of Auckland since 1967, Stardome Observatory & Planetarium is one of the Auckland region's most popular and best loved attractions. A visit to Stardome is a unique and fun learning experience for all ages.

Here at Stardome we have recently completed a major upgrade including the addition of cutting edge new displays and interactive exhibits in our foyer. This area is free to visit, and designed so that you can explore and learn at your own pace. The wide range of activities and information presented caters to all ages and education levels.

Our new astronomical displays complement the experience of a show in the plantarium theatre. The digital projection technology in the planetarium has also been recently upgraded to the latest state-of-the-art 'Digistar 4' projection system.

Cross the moon graphic at the threshold of Stardome and you will find our displays are divided into four areas:

‘The Universe’ lets visitors explore the story of how our Universe has come to be.
‘Our Place in Space’ features New Zealand’s most diverse display of meteorites including pieces of the Moon and Mars. The centerpiece is the Magic Planet, which is a large digital video globe with images projected from inside. The Magic Planet can become the surface of the Earth, Moon, Mars and other planets at the touch of a button.
Find out how telescopes work in the ‘Looking into the Universe’ section.
Climb onto our weighing machine to find out how much you would weigh on other planets in 'Getting off Earth.' Man's endeavours to explore space and the history of space flight are celebrated in this section, which includes model rockets and two replica NASA spacesuits.

Planetarium shows run every night and weekend afternoons about space, astronauts, black holes and many other topics. Sit back in the reclined seats to view the night sky projected using the latest cutting edge technology onto the dome ceiling - day or night and rain or shine. The shows change every month, so there is always something new to see. Evening shows include courtyard telescope viewing (weather permitting).

We are a LEOTC provider and regularly host groups of school children, as well as our popular school holiday sessions. Other groups are also welcome including seniors, kindergartens, kohunga reo, office social clubs, scouts, girl guides, and other clubs for young and old alike. We can tailor a presentation for your group or you can choose from our wide range of shows on offer.

Stardome is situated on the lower southern slopes of One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) - one of Auckland's volcanic cones and most prominent natural landmarks. The park includes Maori archaeological sites, playgrounds, BBQ's, walking tracks, and a working farm.

Prepare to be amazed as your guide takes you on an unforgettable tour of our universe!

"Stardome is one of our most popular and education-focused venues," says Auckland Mayor Len Brown.

The Stardome Observatory & Planetarium is proudly supported by: