Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society
Discover the Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society, established through a generous 1961 gift from businessman Harold Holt, who donated a planetarium projector to Napier. Housed at Napier Boys High School, this astronomy club offers captivating stargazing sessions with the oldest Zeiss ZKP1 projector in New Zealand, alongside a full-size Sputnik model, 80mm refractor, 100mm reflector, and 11x80 binoculars. Open Sundays from 7pm to 9pm, it's perfect for astronomy enthusiasts exploring the night sky. Entry: Adults $8, Students/Seniors $5, Families $20. No EFTPOS available.
Upcoming Events
Sun 09 Aug 2026
07:00 pm
Sunday Evening Astronomy Viewings
About This Activity Step into the night sky with Sunday evening viewings at the Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society, where you can gaze at celestial wonders through specialized equipment. These sessions offer a hands-on way to observe stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena using the society's collection of telescopes and binoculars. Expect guided viewings that highlight the beauty of the universe, making it an ideal outing for anyone curious about the cosmos. Open to all ages, these viewings welcome families, students, and astronomy enthusiasts alike, fostering a sense of community as participants share the experience under the stars. Each session lasts 120 minutes, running from 7pm to 9pm every Sunday. Entry fees are Adults $8, Students $5, and Seniors $5, with a family option available for up to six people at $20. Note that no EFTPOS facilities are provided, so bring cash for payment. No prior knowledge is needed—just a sense of wonder and comfortable clothing for the evening chill. The society's equipment includes the Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector, the oldest in New Zealand, along with an 80mm Refractor, 100mm Reflector, and 11x80 binoculars. These tools allow clear views of the night sky, turning each viewing into a memorable journey that connects you with others passionate about astronomy. Joining these sessions not only sparks curiosity but also builds local connections in Hawke's Bay, as attendees discuss observations and learn from one another in a relaxed setting. 🌌 Suitable for all ages, from young children to adults Key features include access to historic Zeiss ZKP1 projector and various telescopes Benefits: Gain insights into the universe while meeting like-minded people Duration: 2 hours, Sundays 7pm-9pm Pricing: Adults $8, Students/Seniors $5; cash only, no EFTPOS Requirements: No experience needed; bring cash and dress warmly Whether you're stargazing for the first time or seeking regular night-sky adventures, these viewings provide an accessible entry into astronomy that strengthens community ties in Napier. About the Venue The viewings take place at Napier Boys High School in Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay, home to the society's planetarium facilities. Here, the historic Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector—gifted to the city in 1961 by businessman Harold Holt—sits alongside a full-size model of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. This setup creates an engaging space for astronomical exploration right in the heart of the community. The school's location offers easy access for locals, supporting a welcoming environment where participants can focus on the skies without distractions. As a key community hub in Hawke's Bay, it ties into Napier's rich history of public education and shared interests, making it a fitting spot for evening gatherings that bring people together. Contact the society at info@holtplanetarium.org.nz or +64 6 834 4345 for more details, and visit http://www.holtplanetarium.org.nz.
Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay
Sun 16 Aug 2026
07:00 pm
Sunday Evening Astronomy Viewings
About This Activity Step into the night sky with Sunday evening viewings at the Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society, where you can gaze at celestial wonders through specialized equipment. These sessions offer a hands-on way to observe stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena using the society's collection of telescopes and binoculars. Expect guided viewings that highlight the beauty of the universe, making it an ideal outing for anyone curious about the cosmos. Open to all ages, these viewings welcome families, students, and astronomy enthusiasts alike, fostering a sense of community as participants share the experience under the stars. Each session lasts 120 minutes, running from 7pm to 9pm every Sunday. Entry fees are Adults $8, Students $5, and Seniors $5, with a family option available for up to six people at $20. Note that no EFTPOS facilities are provided, so bring cash for payment. No prior knowledge is needed—just a sense of wonder and comfortable clothing for the evening chill. The society's equipment includes the Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector, the oldest in New Zealand, along with an 80mm Refractor, 100mm Reflector, and 11x80 binoculars. These tools allow clear views of the night sky, turning each viewing into a memorable journey that connects you with others passionate about astronomy. Joining these sessions not only sparks curiosity but also builds local connections in Hawke's Bay, as attendees discuss observations and learn from one another in a relaxed setting. 🌌 Suitable for all ages, from young children to adults Key features include access to historic Zeiss ZKP1 projector and various telescopes Benefits: Gain insights into the universe while meeting like-minded people Duration: 2 hours, Sundays 7pm-9pm Pricing: Adults $8, Students/Seniors $5; cash only, no EFTPOS Requirements: No experience needed; bring cash and dress warmly Whether you're stargazing for the first time or seeking regular night-sky adventures, these viewings provide an accessible entry into astronomy that strengthens community ties in Napier. About the Venue The viewings take place at Napier Boys High School in Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay, home to the society's planetarium facilities. Here, the historic Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector—gifted to the city in 1961 by businessman Harold Holt—sits alongside a full-size model of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. This setup creates an engaging space for astronomical exploration right in the heart of the community. The school's location offers easy access for locals, supporting a welcoming environment where participants can focus on the skies without distractions. As a key community hub in Hawke's Bay, it ties into Napier's rich history of public education and shared interests, making it a fitting spot for evening gatherings that bring people together. Contact the society at info@holtplanetarium.org.nz or +64 6 834 4345 for more details, and visit http://www.holtplanetarium.org.nz.
Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay
Sun 23 Aug 2026
07:00 pm
Sunday Evening Astronomy Viewings
About This Activity Step into the night sky with Sunday evening viewings at the Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society, where you can gaze at celestial wonders through specialized equipment. These sessions offer a hands-on way to observe stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena using the society's collection of telescopes and binoculars. Expect guided viewings that highlight the beauty of the universe, making it an ideal outing for anyone curious about the cosmos. Open to all ages, these viewings welcome families, students, and astronomy enthusiasts alike, fostering a sense of community as participants share the experience under the stars. Each session lasts 120 minutes, running from 7pm to 9pm every Sunday. Entry fees are Adults $8, Students $5, and Seniors $5, with a family option available for up to six people at $20. Note that no EFTPOS facilities are provided, so bring cash for payment. No prior knowledge is needed—just a sense of wonder and comfortable clothing for the evening chill. The society's equipment includes the Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector, the oldest in New Zealand, along with an 80mm Refractor, 100mm Reflector, and 11x80 binoculars. These tools allow clear views of the night sky, turning each viewing into a memorable journey that connects you with others passionate about astronomy. Joining these sessions not only sparks curiosity but also builds local connections in Hawke's Bay, as attendees discuss observations and learn from one another in a relaxed setting. 🌌 Suitable for all ages, from young children to adults Key features include access to historic Zeiss ZKP1 projector and various telescopes Benefits: Gain insights into the universe while meeting like-minded people Duration: 2 hours, Sundays 7pm-9pm Pricing: Adults $8, Students/Seniors $5; cash only, no EFTPOS Requirements: No experience needed; bring cash and dress warmly Whether you're stargazing for the first time or seeking regular night-sky adventures, these viewings provide an accessible entry into astronomy that strengthens community ties in Napier. About the Venue The viewings take place at Napier Boys High School in Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay, home to the society's planetarium facilities. Here, the historic Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector—gifted to the city in 1961 by businessman Harold Holt—sits alongside a full-size model of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. This setup creates an engaging space for astronomical exploration right in the heart of the community. The school's location offers easy access for locals, supporting a welcoming environment where participants can focus on the skies without distractions. As a key community hub in Hawke's Bay, it ties into Napier's rich history of public education and shared interests, making it a fitting spot for evening gatherings that bring people together. Contact the society at info@holtplanetarium.org.nz or +64 6 834 4345 for more details, and visit http://www.holtplanetarium.org.nz.
Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay
Sun 30 Aug 2026
07:00 pm
Sunday Evening Astronomy Viewings
About This Activity Step into the night sky with Sunday evening viewings at the Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society, where you can gaze at celestial wonders through specialized equipment. These sessions offer a hands-on way to observe stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena using the society's collection of telescopes and binoculars. Expect guided viewings that highlight the beauty of the universe, making it an ideal outing for anyone curious about the cosmos. Open to all ages, these viewings welcome families, students, and astronomy enthusiasts alike, fostering a sense of community as participants share the experience under the stars. Each session lasts 120 minutes, running from 7pm to 9pm every Sunday. Entry fees are Adults $8, Students $5, and Seniors $5, with a family option available for up to six people at $20. Note that no EFTPOS facilities are provided, so bring cash for payment. No prior knowledge is needed—just a sense of wonder and comfortable clothing for the evening chill. The society's equipment includes the Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector, the oldest in New Zealand, along with an 80mm Refractor, 100mm Reflector, and 11x80 binoculars. These tools allow clear views of the night sky, turning each viewing into a memorable journey that connects you with others passionate about astronomy. Joining these sessions not only sparks curiosity but also builds local connections in Hawke's Bay, as attendees discuss observations and learn from one another in a relaxed setting. 🌌 Suitable for all ages, from young children to adults Key features include access to historic Zeiss ZKP1 projector and various telescopes Benefits: Gain insights into the universe while meeting like-minded people Duration: 2 hours, Sundays 7pm-9pm Pricing: Adults $8, Students/Seniors $5; cash only, no EFTPOS Requirements: No experience needed; bring cash and dress warmly Whether you're stargazing for the first time or seeking regular night-sky adventures, these viewings provide an accessible entry into astronomy that strengthens community ties in Napier. About the Venue The viewings take place at Napier Boys High School in Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay, home to the society's planetarium facilities. Here, the historic Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector—gifted to the city in 1961 by businessman Harold Holt—sits alongside a full-size model of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. This setup creates an engaging space for astronomical exploration right in the heart of the community. The school's location offers easy access for locals, supporting a welcoming environment where participants can focus on the skies without distractions. As a key community hub in Hawke's Bay, it ties into Napier's rich history of public education and shared interests, making it a fitting spot for evening gatherings that bring people together. Contact the society at info@holtplanetarium.org.nz or +64 6 834 4345 for more details, and visit http://www.holtplanetarium.org.nz.
Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay
Sun 06 Sept 2026
07:00 pm
Sunday Evening Astronomy Viewings
About This Activity Step into the night sky with Sunday evening viewings at the Hawkes Bay Astronomical Society, where you can gaze at celestial wonders through specialized equipment. These sessions offer a hands-on way to observe stars, planets, and other astronomical phenomena using the society's collection of telescopes and binoculars. Expect guided viewings that highlight the beauty of the universe, making it an ideal outing for anyone curious about the cosmos. Open to all ages, these viewings welcome families, students, and astronomy enthusiasts alike, fostering a sense of community as participants share the experience under the stars. Each session lasts 120 minutes, running from 7pm to 9pm every Sunday. Entry fees are Adults $8, Students $5, and Seniors $5, with a family option available for up to six people at $20. Note that no EFTPOS facilities are provided, so bring cash for payment. No prior knowledge is needed—just a sense of wonder and comfortable clothing for the evening chill. The society's equipment includes the Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector, the oldest in New Zealand, along with an 80mm Refractor, 100mm Reflector, and 11x80 binoculars. These tools allow clear views of the night sky, turning each viewing into a memorable journey that connects you with others passionate about astronomy. Joining these sessions not only sparks curiosity but also builds local connections in Hawke's Bay, as attendees discuss observations and learn from one another in a relaxed setting. 🌌 Suitable for all ages, from young children to adults Key features include access to historic Zeiss ZKP1 projector and various telescopes Benefits: Gain insights into the universe while meeting like-minded people Duration: 2 hours, Sundays 7pm-9pm Pricing: Adults $8, Students/Seniors $5; cash only, no EFTPOS Requirements: No experience needed; bring cash and dress warmly Whether you're stargazing for the first time or seeking regular night-sky adventures, these viewings provide an accessible entry into astronomy that strengthens community ties in Napier. About the Venue The viewings take place at Napier Boys High School in Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay, home to the society's planetarium facilities. Here, the historic Zeiss ZKP1 planetarium projector—gifted to the city in 1961 by businessman Harold Holt—sits alongside a full-size model of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite. This setup creates an engaging space for astronomical exploration right in the heart of the community. The school's location offers easy access for locals, supporting a welcoming environment where participants can focus on the skies without distractions. As a key community hub in Hawke's Bay, it ties into Napier's rich history of public education and shared interests, making it a fitting spot for evening gatherings that bring people together. Contact the society at info@holtplanetarium.org.nz or +64 6 834 4345 for more details, and visit http://www.holtplanetarium.org.nz.
Te Awa, Napier, Hawke's Bay
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