Last updated June 2026
Space Place at Carter Observatory is Wellington’s planetarium and space science centre, located at 40 Salamanca Road in the Wellington Botanic Garden on Kelburn Hill. It features a digital planetarium dome, interactive exhibitions on astronomy and navigation, and historic telescopes. The site is a short stroll from the top of the Wellington Cable Car and offers evening sessions on several nights each week. It forms part of Museums Wellington and focuses on New Zealand’s contribution to astronomy and Māori starlore.
Practical Information
| Address | 40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn, Wellington 6012 (in the Wellington Botanic Garden) |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday – Wednesday | 5pm – 10:30pm |
| Thursday | 10am – 10:30pm |
| Friday – Saturday | 10am – 11pm |
| Sunday | 10am – 5pm |
| Admission (adult) | NZ$16 |
| Admission (Gold Card / NZ Student) | NZ$14 |
| Admission (child 4–14) | NZ$10 |
| Admission (under 4) | Free |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | NZ$49 |
| Planetarium shows | Included with admission; check schedule on website |
| Access | Short stroll from Kelburn Cable Car terminus |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair available on site; level access and space in planetarium |
About Space Place
Space Place at Carter Observatory occupies a heritage-listed building in the Wellington Botanic Garden. The Carter Observatory opened on 20 December 1941 as New Zealand’s national observatory and operated in that role until 2010. The facility underwent refurbishment and reopened on 27 March 2010 with a digital planetarium and updated public exhibits. It is now managed by Museums Wellington as a public science centre focused on the southern sky, space science, and Māori navigation traditions.
The Kelburn hill location provides views of the night sky above the city. The surrounding Botanic Garden offers additional walking options, including paths to the Rose Garden and nearby cafés. Visitors commonly arrive via the Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay, which stops at the Kelburn terminus a short distance from the entrance.
The observatory building is a Category 2 historic place listed by Heritage New Zealand. It houses the historic Thomas Cooke refractor telescope and the Ruth Crisp reflector, both used for public viewing sessions when conditions allow. The site also manages the nearby Thomas King Observatory.
Planetarium and Exhibitions
The digital full-dome planetarium seats 66 people and presents shows on planets, constellations, galaxies, and New Zealand astronomy. Each session includes a live presentation of the night sky over Aotearoa. Shows run throughout opening hours, with the last evening show typically starting at 8pm. Admission includes access to the planetarium schedule on the day of visit.
Interactive galleries cover topics such as black holes, asteroids, Apollo missions, and a rocket launch simulation. The Matariki theatre presents stories of Māori navigation using stars and the significance of Matariki. Exhibits include real lunar rock samples and hands-on elements suitable for families.
Telescope viewings occur on clear evenings, weather permitting. Solar viewing through a dedicated telescope may be available during daylight hours. Visitors should confirm current sessions by phone as these activities depend on conditions.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the planetarium shows for being engaging and suitable for children, noting the clear explanations and immersive dome experience. Many appreciate the combination of historic telescopes with modern exhibits and enjoy the short walk through the Botanic Garden. Evening visits are highlighted as a distinctive Wellington activity.
Where to Learn More
Museums Wellington – Space Place: Official site with current hours, admission prices, planetarium schedule, and event listings.
Heritage New Zealand – Carter Observatory: Heritage listing details, history, and architectural description of the building.
WellingtonNZ – Space Place: Visitor information and overview of the attraction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Space Place at Carter Observatory?
At 40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn, Wellington, inside the Wellington Botanic Garden, a short stroll from the Kelburn Cable Car terminus.
What are the current opening hours?
Monday closed; Tuesday and Wednesday 5pm–10:30pm; Thursday 10am–10:30pm; Friday and Saturday 10am–11pm; Sunday 10am–5pm. Last entry is 30 minutes before close.
What does admission include?
General admission covers entry to the galleries, planetarium shows on the daily schedule, and access to telescope viewing when available. Family and concession rates apply.
How do I get there by public transport?
Take the Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay to the Kelburn terminus, then walk a short distance to the entrance. Buses also serve the Kelburn area.
Are evening visits available?
Yes. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings offer planetarium shows and potential telescope sessions on clear nights.
Is the venue accessible?
Wheelchair access is available with a chair provided on site. The planetarium has level access and space for wheelchair users. Confirm specific needs directly with the venue.
Are children welcome?
Yes. The planetarium and exhibits are family-friendly. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Under-4s enter free.
Is booking required?
Bookings are essential for groups and tours. Individual visitors can purchase tickets on arrival, though advance purchase is recommended for popular sessions.
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