Event details

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  • Date 7:00PM Saturday 14th October 2023
  • Location Wainuiomata Regional Park, 10 Whitcher Grove, Wainuiomata
  • Duration 3 hours
  • Cost $20 plus fees
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Calling all aspiring photographers! Join us to get close-up and personal with our galaxy and learn the basics of dark sky shooting from a professional.

We are thrilled to be offering this exclusive astrophotography workshop and stargazing session guided by Glen Butler (Night & Light Photography) and Wellington Astronomical Society. This is a unique chance to explore our Southern Skies. Look for Jupiter, Saturn and the Moon through powerful optical telescopes and put your new skills to the test by capturing the night sky!

Light pollution in the city washes out our view of space, and only the brightest stars pierce the glow. Wainuiomata Recreational Area might be one of the most peaceful spots in the region, yet it has one of the busiest dark skies in the universe, making it a perfect location for stargazing and astrophotography.

Glen Butler (Night & Light Photography) is an award-winning and widely published photographer and filmmaker from Wellington New Zealand; specialising in panoramic, time-lapse, landscape and astrophotography. A passion for adventure takes him to all corners of Aotearoa in a quest to capture the more remote and often unseen raw natural beauty New Zealand has to offer. You can view some of Glen's breathtaking work on Facebook or Instagram.

This event is strictly limited to 30 people, so book your spot today. Please only register if you have the equipment requirements outlined below.

Book your spot now

During this introductory session to astrophotography you will learn the fundamentals and some creative ideas to begin taking captivating images in a unique dark sky environment. Wellington Astronomical Society will also have their telescopes on hand for you to have a closer look at our sparkling Southern Skies.

Meet us at the carpark and we will escort you through the park to the event site. This event is not suitable for children under 18.

What to bring (minimum requirements):

  • Camera – with the ability to change manual settings of aperture, shutter speed and ISO
  • A wide angle lens or zoom (eg 14mm, 24mm, 35mm)
  • A stable tripod
  • A remote shutter release or the ability to put your camera onto (2-second) self-timer mode
  • Empty memory card(s)
  • Spare/fully charged camera batteries
  • Head torch (ideally with red light setting)
  • Warm clothing and sturdy footwear
A view of the milky way, with a lush green tree in the foreground
Updated September 26, 2023 at 5:15 PM