Stardome Observatory & Planetarium Auckland
Explore the cosmos at Auckland's Stardome Observatory & Planetarium, offering immersive shows, interactive exhibits, and telescope viewing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the cosmos after dark
Stardome Observatory & Planetarium Auckland
Best Time
Experience the cosmos after dark
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the cosmos at Auckland's Stardome Observatory & Planetarium, offering immersive shows, interactive exhibits, and telescope viewing.
"An unforgettable experience that sparks curiosity about the universe for all ages."
🎟️ Book Planetarium Shows Ahead
Popular planetarium shows and movie screenings can sell out. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment!
🔭 Check Telescope Availability
Telescope viewing is weather-dependent and may require separate booking. Check their schedule!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium Dome
Immersive journeys through the cosmos, from nebulae to galaxies. A truly stellar experience!
Interactive Space Gallery
Exhibition Area
Hands-on exhibits that make learning about space fun and engaging for all ages.
Telescope Viewing
Observatory Courtyard
Gaze at stars, planets, and the moon through powerful telescopes on clear nights.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Beyond the Dome: Exhibits & Telescopes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Planetarium Shows Ahead
Popular planetarium shows and movie screenings can sell out. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment!
🔭 Check Telescope Availability
Telescope viewing is weather-dependent and may require separate booking. Check their schedule!
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.
✨ Embrace the Nostalgia
Some older shows have a nostalgic charm. Embrace the retro visuals for a unique experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Planetarium Shows Ahead
Popular planetarium shows and movie screenings can sell out. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment!
🔭 Check Telescope Availability
Telescope viewing is weather-dependent and may require separate booking. Check their schedule!
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arrive early or consider alternative transport.
✨ Embrace the Nostalgia
Some older shows have a nostalgic charm. Embrace the retro visuals for a unique experience!
🧒 Kid-Friendly Fun
The interactive gallery is a hit with children, making it a great rainy-day activity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stardome for its engaging planetarium shows and interactive exhibits, making it a great educational outing for families and space enthusiasts. While some movie screenings might not offer the highest visual fidelity, the unique dome setting and the chance for telescope viewing on clear nights are highly valued. Parking can be a challenge, and some specific experiences might be less engaging for very young children.
"Last night we went to Stardrome in Auckland and it was an unforgettable experience! We watched an incredible Queen band show on the big screen , After the show, the staff gave us extra activities, including a chance to use the big telescope to see a star up close. It was such a magical and inspiring moment!
This place is also really great for the younger generation. It’s not just entertaining — it sparks curiosity about the universe and space. The combination of fun shows, interactive exhibits, and real stargazing opportunities makes learning exciting and memorable. It’s the perfect place to inspire kids, teens, and even adults to explore science and the wonders of the cosmos. Highly recommended for families and anyone interested in space or astronomy!"
Lennn walin
"Admission is $5 for people over 3 years old. We went on a rainy day. It was fun but very small. Without engagement a small child can speed through in under 10 minutes. I think you need to go in the evening and or for a planned movie feature to get the full effect of the planetarium. There is a small gift shop at the entrance."
L Dilley
"I love this place, its themed installations are amazing and the best part is that kids can participate in the hands on experience. This place never disappoints. The visual sessions are engaging and entertaining!
The only downside is the lack of enough car parking for the people attending the Stardome."
Matilde Readett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stardome Observatory is located at 670 Manukau Road, One Tree Hill Domain, Auckland. It's accessible by public transport, with bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be limited, especially during popular events.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can get busy, particularly during evening shows or special events. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Stardome is accessible via public transport. Several bus routes service the area, making it a convenient option for those without a car.
Stardome is generally accessible, with pram-friendly areas noted. Check their specific accessibility information for detailed guidance on navigating the venue with mobility aids.
For evening events, consider public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles. This is especially true if you plan to enjoy any refreshments.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary depending on the show or experience. General admission for the interactive gallery is around $5 for those over 3 years old. Planetarium shows and special events have separate ticket prices.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for planetarium shows and special movie screenings, as they can sell out. +1
Tickets may be available at the door, but booking online in advance is the safest way to guarantee your entry, particularly for popular shows.
Yes, if you visit the museum part and plan to return the same day for the observatory, they often offer combo tickets for better value.
A ticket typically grants access to a specific planetarium show or event. Some tickets may include access to the interactive galleries, and special movie screenings might come with a free box of popcorn.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Stardome offers a variety of shows, including educational programs about planets and stars, as well as themed movie screenings like 'Interstellar' or band tributes. Check their current schedule for what's on.
Yes, on clear nights, Stardome often offers opportunities for visitors to use their telescopes to view celestial objects. This is weather permitting and may require advance booking.
Stardome is very family-friendly. The interactive space gallery is designed for children to engage with, and many planetarium shows are educational and captivating for younger audiences.
The TReX Experience is a specific type of immersive show. While some visitors find it engaging, others, particularly younger children, might find it less captivating than other offerings.
A visit can range from 1-2 hours for a planetarium show and a quick look at the exhibits, to longer if you attend multiple shows or participate in telescope viewing.
📸 🔭 Photography & Videography
Photography policies can vary by show and exhibit. Generally, flash photography is prohibited during planetarium shows to avoid disrupting the experience. Check signage or ask staff for guidance.
Similar to photography, filming is usually restricted during shows. However, you might be able to capture short clips in the exhibition areas. Always be mindful of other visitors.
The planetarium dome itself, the interactive exhibits, and the exterior architecture of the observatory can make for great photo opportunities.
Keep an eye out for any themed backdrops or unique installations within the gallery that might be perfect for memorable photos.
It's best to refrain from using your phone camera during shows, as the screen light can be distracting. Many visitors prefer to focus on the immersive experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets for shows that are specifically geared towards children or family viewing. On clear evenings, inquire about telescope viewing sessions, as this can be an unforgettable experience for kids. Remember that parking can be limited, so planning your arrival is key.
🚀 Space Enthusiasts & Sci-Fi Fans
Fans of science fiction will also find plenty to enjoy, with special movie screenings of sci-fi classics. While the projection style might differ from a standard cinema, the immersive dome environment adds a unique dimension to the viewing experience.
✨ Nostalgia Seekers
Even the general atmosphere of exploring space-themed exhibits can bring back memories of childhood fascination with the cosmos. It's a place where you can relive those moments of awe and discovery, sharing them with a new generation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Planetarium Shows
While many shows are educational, focusing on constellations, planets, and cosmic phenomena, Stardome also hosts special movie screenings. For films like 'Interstellar' or sci-fi classics, the movie is projected onto the dome, often with the surrounding dome displaying a star field. Some viewers note that the movie itself isn't projected across the entire dome, but rather on a flat section at the front, and the quality might not match a modern IMAX cinema. However, the unique setting and the novelty of watching a film in a planetarium are often considered worth the experience, especially for fans of the genre.
It's worth noting that some older shows might have a more 'dated' visual style, which some visitors find adds to the nostalgic charm. Regardless of the specific show, the planetarium offers a unique perspective on astronomy and filmmaking.
Exploring the Interactive Space Gallery
Reviewers often highlight how much children enjoy participating in these exhibits, making it an excellent option for families, especially on a rainy day. The gallery provides a tangible way to understand complex ideas, sparking curiosity and a desire to learn more about the universe. It's a space where kids can touch, experiment, and discover, fostering a love for science and astronomy.
While some reviews mention that the gallery might be small and a child could speed through it quickly without engagement, the overall sentiment is positive. The key is to encourage interaction and exploration, turning a visit into a memorable educational adventure.
Stargazing Through the Telescope
These telescope viewing sessions are often held after planetarium shows or as part of special events. It's important to remember that this experience is highly dependent on the weather. Cloudy skies will prevent any stargazing, so it's always best to check the forecast and the Stardome's schedule. Some visitors have described this as a 'magical and inspiring moment.'
Advance booking is often required for telescope viewing, as spots can be limited. This ensures a more intimate and less crowded experience, allowing everyone a good chance to peer through the lenses. It's a fantastic way to connect with the night sky and deepen your appreciation for the cosmos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit