Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory

Astronomy

New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth, Taranaki

Discover the wonders of the universe with the Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory in Taranaki. This engaging astronomy club welcomes stargazers of all ages to explore the night sky during public viewing nights every Tuesday evening. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, join us for an unforgettable experience at our Observatory in New Plymouth. With affordable entry fees and special family rates, there’s no better place in the region to connect with the cosmos. Come witness the magic of the stars with us!

Welcome to Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory

Gazing at the stars has never been more accessible than with the Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory. As a dedicated astronomy club in the heart of Taranaki, we are passionate about sharing the wonders of the universe with our community. Our club offers regular opportunities for both members and the public to observe celestial phenomena through our well-equipped Observatory. Whether you're fascinated by distant galaxies or the phases of the moon, our club provides a unique space to learn, connect, and marvel at the night sky.

Perfectly situated in New Plymouth Central, our Observatory is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Located on Robe Street, the carpark is clearly signposted at the base of the access road, which runs past the Civil Defence Headquarters. Nestled in the vibrant region of Taranaki, New Plymouth offers a stunning backdrop for stargazing, with its blend of urban convenience and proximity to natural beauty. Our location ensures that you can enjoy an evening of astronomy without venturing too far from the city centre, making it an ideal outing for families and groups in the area.

Join Us for Public Viewing Nights

One of the highlights of our astronomy club is our public viewing nights held every Tuesday evening. These sessions run at 7:30pm during winter and 8:30pm in summer, generally lasting about 1.5 hours. Please note that we are closed on public holidays. Our affordable entry fees make it easy for everyone to join in—adults pay just $6, juniors (those still at school) pay $4, and families (2 adults and 2 children) can attend for $15. These evenings are a fantastic opportunity to peer through our telescopes and learn from knowledgeable members of the Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory.

Club Meetings and Group Arrangements

In addition to our weekly public nights, we host New Plymouth Astronomical Society Meetings, also known as Club Nights, on the third Saturday of each month at 7:30pm. These gatherings at the Observatory are perfect for those who want to dive deeper into the world of astronomy, discuss recent discoveries, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in Taranaki. For groups interested in visiting outside of public nights, we offer sessions by arrangement only, ensuring a tailored experience for schools, community groups, or private parties.

Why Choose Our Astronomy Club?

At the Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory, we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming environment for all. Our mission is to inspire curiosity about the cosmos and provide hands-on opportunities to explore the night sky. Whether you're a resident of New Plymouth or just passing through Taranaki, our club is a must-visit destination for anyone intrigued by the stars. With a focus on education and community engagement, we strive to make astronomy accessible to everyone, from young learners to seasoned observers. Come join us and see the universe in a whole new light!

Join Us

Upcoming Events


Tue 24 Feb

07:30 pm
Discover Astronomy at Marsland Hill Reserve, New Plymouth

Observe the Stars with New Plymouth’s Astronomy Enthusiasts Discover the wonders of the night sky with the Astronomical Society New Plymouth at their regular Public Evening events. Held every Tuesday at the Observatory on Marsland Hill Reserve, these sessions are a fantastic opportunity for anyone curious about astronomy to gaze at celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned stargazer, these 90-minute sessions cater to all ages, making it a perfect family outing or a unique solo adventure. 🌌 Head along to experience the thrill of spotting distant stars, planets, and constellations while learning from passionate members of the society. The timings adjust with the seasons—starting at 7:30pm in winter and 8:30pm in summer—ensuring optimal viewing conditions. Entry fees are affordable, with adults at $6, juniors (school students) at $4, and families (2 adults, 2 children) at $15. These events foster a sense of community, connecting people through a shared awe of the universe. No prior knowledge or equipment is needed—just bring your curiosity and a warm jacket for those cooler evenings! 🌠 Nothing beats the excitement of exploring the cosmos right in the heart of New Plymouth. It’s not just about stargazing; it’s about building connections, sparking interest in science, and creating memorable experiences. These public nights are open to everyone, so gather your friends or family and dive into the mysteries of space together. Visit Marsland Hill Reserve in New Plymouth Central Dive into a unique evening at Marsland Hill Reserve, the scenic home of the Astronomical Society New Plymouth’s Observatory. Located in New Plymouth Central, Taranaki, this spot offers a serene escape from the city bustle, ideal for skywatching with minimal light pollution. Head to the Observatory via the carpark accessed from Robe Street, where a sign marks the access road leading past the Civil Defence Headquarters. The venue’s elevated position on the reserve provides stunning panoramic views, enhancing your stargazing experience. New Plymouth, known for its vibrant community and coastal charm, is the perfect backdrop for such an inspiring activity, bringing locals and visitors together under the stars.

New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth, Taranaki

Tue 03 Mar

07:30 pm
Discover Astronomy at Marsland Hill Reserve, New Plymouth

Observe the Stars with New Plymouth’s Astronomy Enthusiasts Discover the wonders of the night sky with the Astronomical Society New Plymouth at their regular Public Evening events. Held every Tuesday at the Observatory on Marsland Hill Reserve, these sessions are a fantastic opportunity for anyone curious about astronomy to gaze at celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned stargazer, these 90-minute sessions cater to all ages, making it a perfect family outing or a unique solo adventure. 🌌 Head along to experience the thrill of spotting distant stars, planets, and constellations while learning from passionate members of the society. The timings adjust with the seasons—starting at 7:30pm in winter and 8:30pm in summer—ensuring optimal viewing conditions. Entry fees are affordable, with adults at $6, juniors (school students) at $4, and families (2 adults, 2 children) at $15. These events foster a sense of community, connecting people through a shared awe of the universe. No prior knowledge or equipment is needed—just bring your curiosity and a warm jacket for those cooler evenings! 🌠 Nothing beats the excitement of exploring the cosmos right in the heart of New Plymouth. It’s not just about stargazing; it’s about building connections, sparking interest in science, and creating memorable experiences. These public nights are open to everyone, so gather your friends or family and dive into the mysteries of space together. Visit Marsland Hill Reserve in New Plymouth Central Dive into a unique evening at Marsland Hill Reserve, the scenic home of the Astronomical Society New Plymouth’s Observatory. Located in New Plymouth Central, Taranaki, this spot offers a serene escape from the city bustle, ideal for skywatching with minimal light pollution. Head to the Observatory via the carpark accessed from Robe Street, where a sign marks the access road leading past the Civil Defence Headquarters. The venue’s elevated position on the reserve provides stunning panoramic views, enhancing your stargazing experience. New Plymouth, known for its vibrant community and coastal charm, is the perfect backdrop for such an inspiring activity, bringing locals and visitors together under the stars.

New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth, Taranaki

Tue 10 Mar

07:30 pm
Discover Astronomy at Marsland Hill Reserve, New Plymouth

Observe the Stars with New Plymouth’s Astronomy Enthusiasts Discover the wonders of the night sky with the Astronomical Society New Plymouth at their regular Public Evening events. Held every Tuesday at the Observatory on Marsland Hill Reserve, these sessions are a fantastic opportunity for anyone curious about astronomy to gaze at celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned stargazer, these 90-minute sessions cater to all ages, making it a perfect family outing or a unique solo adventure. 🌌 Head along to experience the thrill of spotting distant stars, planets, and constellations while learning from passionate members of the society. The timings adjust with the seasons—starting at 7:30pm in winter and 8:30pm in summer—ensuring optimal viewing conditions. Entry fees are affordable, with adults at $6, juniors (school students) at $4, and families (2 adults, 2 children) at $15. These events foster a sense of community, connecting people through a shared awe of the universe. No prior knowledge or equipment is needed—just bring your curiosity and a warm jacket for those cooler evenings! 🌠 Nothing beats the excitement of exploring the cosmos right in the heart of New Plymouth. It’s not just about stargazing; it’s about building connections, sparking interest in science, and creating memorable experiences. These public nights are open to everyone, so gather your friends or family and dive into the mysteries of space together. Visit Marsland Hill Reserve in New Plymouth Central Dive into a unique evening at Marsland Hill Reserve, the scenic home of the Astronomical Society New Plymouth’s Observatory. Located in New Plymouth Central, Taranaki, this spot offers a serene escape from the city bustle, ideal for skywatching with minimal light pollution. Head to the Observatory via the carpark accessed from Robe Street, where a sign marks the access road leading past the Civil Defence Headquarters. The venue’s elevated position on the reserve provides stunning panoramic views, enhancing your stargazing experience. New Plymouth, known for its vibrant community and coastal charm, is the perfect backdrop for such an inspiring activity, bringing locals and visitors together under the stars.

New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth, Taranaki

Tue 17 Mar

07:30 pm
Discover Astronomy at Marsland Hill Reserve, New Plymouth

Observe the Stars with New Plymouth’s Astronomy Enthusiasts Discover the wonders of the night sky with the Astronomical Society New Plymouth at their regular Public Evening events. Held every Tuesday at the Observatory on Marsland Hill Reserve, these sessions are a fantastic opportunity for anyone curious about astronomy to gaze at celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned stargazer, these 90-minute sessions cater to all ages, making it a perfect family outing or a unique solo adventure. 🌌 Head along to experience the thrill of spotting distant stars, planets, and constellations while learning from passionate members of the society. The timings adjust with the seasons—starting at 7:30pm in winter and 8:30pm in summer—ensuring optimal viewing conditions. Entry fees are affordable, with adults at $6, juniors (school students) at $4, and families (2 adults, 2 children) at $15. These events foster a sense of community, connecting people through a shared awe of the universe. No prior knowledge or equipment is needed—just bring your curiosity and a warm jacket for those cooler evenings! 🌠 Nothing beats the excitement of exploring the cosmos right in the heart of New Plymouth. It’s not just about stargazing; it’s about building connections, sparking interest in science, and creating memorable experiences. These public nights are open to everyone, so gather your friends or family and dive into the mysteries of space together. Visit Marsland Hill Reserve in New Plymouth Central Dive into a unique evening at Marsland Hill Reserve, the scenic home of the Astronomical Society New Plymouth’s Observatory. Located in New Plymouth Central, Taranaki, this spot offers a serene escape from the city bustle, ideal for skywatching with minimal light pollution. Head to the Observatory via the carpark accessed from Robe Street, where a sign marks the access road leading past the Civil Defence Headquarters. The venue’s elevated position on the reserve provides stunning panoramic views, enhancing your stargazing experience. New Plymouth, known for its vibrant community and coastal charm, is the perfect backdrop for such an inspiring activity, bringing locals and visitors together under the stars.

New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth, Taranaki

Contact Info


"Connect with Astronomical Society New Plymouth - Observatory in New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth, Taranaki! Reach out to join our vibrant astronomy community, get updates on events, or learn how to get involved. Contact us via email, phone, or social media for more details."

John Calcott

npstargazers@gmail.com

021 071 3315

Get in Touch