Space Place At Carter Observatory

Located in Wellington's beautiful Botanic Gardens, Space Place takes visitors on a voyage to the stars.  Discover the southern skies through multimedia exhibits, interactive galleries, the historic Thomas Cooke telescope and the digital, full-dome planetarium. 

The Planetarium

The state of the art planetarium screens a range of space related movies, from adorable aliens and spectacular images of the planets to the wonders of space travel and exploration. Astronomers then give a presentation based on the night sky for the date of the visit. 

Interactive galleries

Explore the galleries and take a trip through time and space, looking at how the universes began, whether there might be life on other planets and space exploration. The exhibits include a do-it-yourself Black Hole, asteroids you can pick up and a real moon rock. You can also learn about the Apollo missions of the late 1960s and experience a rocket blast-off. The galleries also explain the role stars play in Maori culture.

Thomas Cooke Telescope

On late night opening, the telescope is available for public use to give a first-hand glimpse of the stars.

Venue Hire:

Space Place provides a unique setting for a corporate event, and can be hired in part or in full depending on group size. The venue can hold up to 60 seated guests, or 180 for a standing function and speakers and star gazing sessions can be organised. The Planetarium can be used as a dining space with the stars providing a stunning overhead view. View the different spaces for hire on Space Place Venue Hire.

Normal Opening Hours:

Tuesday:  4.00pm - 11.00pm
Friday: 4.00pm - 11.00pm
Saturday: 10.00am - 11.00pm
Sunday: 10.00am - 5:30pm

Last entry at 5pm and 10pm
Closed Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
School bookings available Monday-Friday during school hours.
Closed on Christmas day