Carter Observatory

Carter Observatory in Wellington Botanic Garden houses two main telescopes, a digital planetarium, and several exhibition spaces dedicated to astronomy and space exploration. The facility combines viewing instruments with interactive displays that explain different aspects of the cosmos.

The facility was founded in 1937 to honor Charles Carter, whose estate funded the construction, and officially opened in 1941. It became an important center for astronomical research and education in New Zealand during the 20th century.

The exhibitions explain how Māori people used stars to navigate across the Pacific Ocean and what role these sky patterns play in local customs. You can see how this knowledge remains central to the community today.

Plan your visit for evening hours when the sky is clear and visibility is best, particularly if you want to use the telescopes. The location sits within the botanical garden and is easily reached from the lower sections with accessible pathways for different mobility needs.

You can handle actual asteroid samples and experience space travel simulations through the Tūhura Space Module installation inside the building. This hands-on setup is one of the few chances in the region to practically understand what space exploration feels like.