Stardome Observatory, Astronomical observatory and planetarium in One Tree Hill Domain, Auckland, New Zealand

Stardome Observatory is an astronomical facility in Auckland featuring a modern planetarium with reclining seats and a 360-degree projection system for immersive celestial experiences. Located within One Tree Hill Domain at 670 Manukau Road, it offers daily access to multiple telescopes and night sky observation programs.

The Auckland Astronomical Society began fundraising for a public observatory in 1948, aided by a bequest from Edith Winstone Blackwell for a public telescope. A 21-year lease from One Tree Hill Borough Council led to the observatory's opening in March 1967. After Auckland Museum's planetarium closed in 1989, nearly $3 million was raised for a new 11-metre domed planetarium, opened in February 1997.

The facility's planetarium shows incorporate traditional Polynesian navigation techniques and star knowledge passed down through generations. Visitors learn how ancient seafarers used star patterns to navigate across the Pacific Ocean.

The observatory sits within One Tree Hill Domain and welcomes visitors daily, with extended evening hours for telescope viewing and night sky observation. Plan to arrive before sunset when conditions are best for observing celestial objects through the facility's equipment.

The facility houses an automated Zeiss telescope that allows visitors to observe distant galaxies and nebulae under expert guidance. This specialized instrument is one of the most advanced telescopes available for public viewing in the region.