Te Whatu Stardome | Observatory and Planetarium
Auckland Central, Auckland
Local Pick
At a glance
Te Whatu Stardome is Auckland's planetarium and observatory and a trusted centre for celestial storytelling, astronomy, mātauranga Māori, and cosmological science. ‘Te Whatu’ links the concept of ‘the eye’ with knowledge and learning, and the cycle of life, death and renewal within the cosmos. Located in Maungakiekie One Tree Hill, it offers fully immersive indoor planetarium shows, telescope viewing, music events and hands-on exhibits.
With year-round Māori astronomy shows as well as a winter season of Matariki shows, visitors have an authentic way to connect to the night sky in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Be wowed by the vastness of the universe in Stardome’s immersive, presenter-led fulldome planetarium shows where expert astronomers zoom you through the solar system, to the stars, or any point in the known universe! After dark, head outdoors to gaze through courtyard telescopes (weather permitting) or experience the magic of the powerful Zeiss telescope with its roof that opens to reveal the dazzling night sky.
Let your imagination soar with epic planetarium music events featuring Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, paired with mind-bending visuals for an out-of-this-world experience.
With an exciting mix of hands-on exhibits, shows for all ages – including special astronomy shows for kids, there’s something for dreamers of every age.
Entry to Space Gallery & Exhibits only
Adopt a Star
Give a truly unique and memorable gift with Stardome's Adopt a Star experience. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, new arrivals, memorials, or simply someone who loves the night sky, this thoughtful gift allows you to dedicate a star and celebrate life's special moments in an unforgettable way.
For $65, each personalised Adopt a Star pack includes:
With year-round Māori astronomy shows as well as a winter season of Matariki shows, visitors have an authentic way to connect to the night sky in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Be wowed by the vastness of the universe in Stardome’s immersive, presenter-led fulldome planetarium shows where expert astronomers zoom you through the solar system, to the stars, or any point in the known universe! After dark, head outdoors to gaze through courtyard telescopes (weather permitting) or experience the magic of the powerful Zeiss telescope with its roof that opens to reveal the dazzling night sky.
Let your imagination soar with epic planetarium music events featuring Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon, paired with mind-bending visuals for an out-of-this-world experience.
With an exciting mix of hands-on exhibits, shows for all ages – including special astronomy shows for kids, there’s something for dreamers of every age.
Entry to Space Gallery & Exhibits only
- Adult: $5.00
- Child: $5.00
- Annual Pass Holders: Free
- Adult: $18.50
- Child: $16.50
- Family Pass (Two adults & two children): $60.00
- Annual Pass Holders: Free
- Adult: $16.50
- Child: $13.50
- Family Pass (Two adults & two children): $50.00
- Annual Pass Holders: Free
- Under 3 years: Free
- Adult: $25.00
- Student / Senior: $23.50
- Annual Pass Holder: $13.50
- Adult: $25.00
- Student / Senior: $23.50
- Annual Pass Holder: $15.00
- Adult: $12.00
- Child (3-15yrs) / Student / Senior: $10.00
- Family Pass: $40.00
- Annual Pass Holders: Free
- Under 3 years: Free
Adopt a Star
Give a truly unique and memorable gift with Stardome's Adopt a Star experience. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, new arrivals, memorials, or simply someone who loves the night sky, this thoughtful gift allows you to dedicate a star and celebrate life's special moments in an unforgettable way.
For $65, each personalised Adopt a Star pack includes:
- A personalised certificate featuring your star's coordinates
- A laser-cut wooden star keepsake
- A star map showing your star's location in the night sky
- Information about the constellation your star belongs to
- One adult or two child passes to a regular Stardome planetarium show (valid for one year)
- A personalised viewing of your adopted star in Stardome's planetarium during your visit (subject to availability; bookings are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
The planetarium is a large domed theatre where advanced digital projectors create realistic images of stars, planets, and the night sky. Visitors can enjoy immersive planetarium shows, documentaries, animated films, and live presentations. The observatory is located on the rooftop and features working telescopes used to observe and study the night sky.
Most planetarium shows run for approximately 50 minutes, while the interactive Space Gallery typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes to explore. Visitors are welcome to enjoy both experiences during their visit.
Yes. Planetarium shows operate rain or shine thanks to the digital projection system. Telescope experiences are weather dependent and may be cancelled if conditions are cloudy or wet.
Advance bookings are highly recommended, particularly during weekends, school holidays, and other busy periods. Walk-in visitors are welcome to explore the Space Gallery, shop, and courtyard areas without a booking, subject to availability.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled session to allow time for parking, ticket collection, and entry. Late arrivals may not be admitted once a show has begun.
During school terms, weekday daytime sessions are primarily reserved for school groups. Public planetarium shows are generally available during evenings, weekends, and school holidays.
Yes. Visitors are welcome to contact a Stardome astronomer with questions about astronomy, space, or objects observed in the night sky.
While there is no café at Stardome, visitors can purchase a selection of drinks, popcorn, ice creams, and snacks to enjoy during their visit. A range of cafés and restaurants are also located nearby.
