Star Safari Stargazing Experience, Martinborough

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(5 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Did you know that the Wairarapa International Dark Sky Reserve has one of the darkest and clearest skies in New Zealand? Only 80km from the Wellington Airport, you get a personal astrobiologist and an astrophysicist to show you the Universe.

We are Hari and Sam, and we created Star Safari out of our love of the night sky. • We invested in the best equipment for stargazing, with powerful telescopes and top-quality optics.

We know our night sky - both our 16" telescopes are manual, and you can learn it too! • Advanced stargazers, bring your observing list. • Beginner stargazers, we will show you where to start. By the end of the session, you will know what's in the sky and how to orient yourself to the stars.

Star Safari is a 90-minute experience with the Universe while seeing the best the amazing southern sky offers. If the weather is unsuitable for stargazing, we explore our sky in virtual reality.

You get to ask questions. We deliver a learning experience just for you.

Available options

Star Safari Stargazing Oct-Nov

16 October to 15 November

Star Safari Stargazing Aug-Sep

21 August - 15 September

Star Safari Stargazing Experience, Martinborough

Star Safari Stargazing Sep

16 September to 28 September

Star Safari Stargazing April

7 April to 28 April

Star Safari Stargazing Mar-Apr

March to April

Star Safari Stargazing Dec-Jan

16 December to 15 January

Star Safari Stargazing Apr-Aug

29 Apr - 20 Aug

Star Safari Stargazing Sep-Oct

29 September to 15 October

Star Safari Stargazing Nov-Dec

16 November to 15 December

What's included

All children 15 and younger for free, with no lower age limit. Maximum 2 per paying adult.

Free cancelation up to 24 hours before session start time.

All Fees and Taxes

Professional Instructors. Hari is a TEDx featured astrobiologist, Sam is an astrophysicist

Coffee and/or Tea

2x 16" (inches) very large telescopes per group and other telescopes and binoculars.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Please call us at the phone number below.

Please dress up warm and as if you would go hiking. It gets very cold at night.

Meeting point

Look out for the email with driving instructions. Follow the signs from 1169 Ponatahi Road along the gravel driveway and then to the right. You will end up going up a hill and we will meet you in the carpark.

CAMPERVANS - we pick you up at the bottom of the hill. Please see email instructions.

About Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its arts scene, coffee culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled between rolling hills and the harbor, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Te Papa Museum

Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, showcasing the country's art, history, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry, some exhibits may have fees

Wellington Botanic Garden

A beautiful garden with a variety of plant collections, walking trails, and scenic views of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Mount Victoria Lookout

A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of Wellington and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 1 hour Free

Weta Workshop

A special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Cultural 1-2 hours NZD 30-50

Wellington Cable Car

A historic cable car offering scenic views of the city and harbor.

Historical 30 minutes NZD 5-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven. The food is wrapped in leaves and cooked underground for several hours.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy, vegan options available.

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand dish featuring fresh fish, usually snapper or tarakihi, coated in batter and deep-fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and gluten, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Spa treatments Beach lounging Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Wellington is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of common safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Wellington Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Wellington Railway Station

By bus

Wellington Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Metlink is the main public transport system in Wellington, offering a network of buses, trains, and ferries.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Te Aro Miramar Karangahape Road (K' Road)

Day trips

Red Rocks

30 km from Wellington • Half day

A scenic coastal area known for its rugged cliffs, sea lions, and wildlife.

Matiu/Somes Island

20 km from Wellington • Half day

A small island in Wellington Harbour with a rich history and scenic views.

Kapiti Coast

60 km from Wellington • Full day

A scenic coastal area known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Wellington Cup Week • Late February to early March Wellington on a Plate • August Wellington Jazz Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Te Papa Museum, New Zealand's national museum, for a comprehensive overview of the country's art, history, and natural environment.
Explore the vibrant and eclectic Cuba Street, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and street art.
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for scenic views of the city and harbor.
Visit the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Enjoy Wellington's thriving coffee culture by visiting one of the numerous specialty coffee shops and roasteries.