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Te Whatu Stardome | Observatory & Planetarium

πŸ“ Epsom, Auckland

β˜…4.5(528 Google reviews)πŸ‘ΆAll ages

Te Whatu Stardome Observatory and Planetarium in Epsom, Auckland, runs planetarium dome shows, space and astronomy exhibitions, and telescope viewing sessions. The presenter team is praised for knowledge and humour. Free parking on site.

βœ“ planetarium dome showsβœ“ space exhibitionsβœ“ knowledgeable presentersβœ“ educationalβœ“ observatory
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Lennn walin

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 β€” 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!

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Reviewers with children call it 'highly educational and amazing' and note kids with an interest in space find it particularly absorbing. Adult visitors describe dome shows as 'unforgettable' and emotionally affecting. The presenter's ability to combine scientific depth with humour is a recurring theme across reviews.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Dome shows cover a range of topics β€” check the programme before booking
⏰Located within One Tree Hill Domain β€” outdoor walk around the domain extends the visit
🎟️Free parking on site
πŸš—Pram-accessible with indoor and outdoor areas

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.5
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528 Google reviews

Dome show experience45%
Educational exhibitions30%
Presenter quality25%
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Lennn walin

10 months ago

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β€œLast 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 β€” 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!”

A

Alex&Yuliya

7 months ago

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β€œAmazing Experience at the Stardome! I recently visited the Stardome and had an absolutely amazing experience. The lecturer was not only knowledgeable but also had a great sense of humor, which made the session both educational and entertaining. The supporting video presentation was well-made and pleasant to watch, perfectly complementing the lecture. One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to view real stars and the moon through telescopes set up by enthusiastic volunteers. It was a fantastic bonus that made the night even more memorable. A big thank you to the team and volunteers at the Stardome - highly recommended for anyone curious about space or just looking for a unique and inspiring night out!”

K

Ka Wai F

a month ago

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β€œThere are interesting exhibitions and displays at the observatory. Highly educational for kids, especially if they are interested in space and astronomy. The shows at the planetarium are also highly recommended. The presenter is very experienced, humorous, and passionate of her job. There are also brief star gazing sessions I. The late evening in which the staff use telescopes to help view planets and star clusters/nebulae. If you are interested in using the big telescope, consider to book in advance as it was booked out for the month when we visited. Only 10 spots are available in one session.”

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Lee Ignal

2 months ago

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β€œWe are from Sydney and spent Christmas and New Years in Auckland and Wellington. We googled places to take kids and came across this place. I would highly recommend for families. 5/5 educational and affordable. We watched 2 shows on different days. The guy that works here is knowledgeable and friendly. Thank You for having us.”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Te Whatu Stardome sits within One Tree Hill Domain in Epsom and combines a full-dome digital planetarium theatre, space and astronomy exhibitions, and access to observatory telescopes. Dome shows cover topics from the solar system and deep-space exploration to music and entertainment programmes. The presenter team is consistently described by reviewers as knowledgeable and engaging. Interactive exhibitions are designed to be accessible to children, particularly those with an interest in space.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Monday09:30 – 17:00
Monday18:00 – 22:30
Tuesday09:30 – 17:00
Wednesday09:30 – 17:00
Wednesday18:00 – 22:30
Thursday09:30 – 17:00
Thursday18:00 – 22:30
Friday09:30 – 17:00
Friday18:00 – 22:30
Saturday09:30 – 17:00
Saturday18:00 – 22:30
Sunday09:30 – 17:00
Sunday18:00 – 22:30

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