Event details

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  • Date 6:00PM Saturday 22nd August 2026
  • Location Wainuiomata Regional Park
  • Duration 3 hours
  • Cost Free event - spaces limited, registration required
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We’ve teamed up with the Wellington Astronomical Society to bring you this exclusive FREE behind-the-scenes event.

Walk deep into untouched native forest, through some of the oldest trees in the Wellington region as darkness falls. You may even hear the calls of kiwi and rūrū (morepork). Explore an area not normally open to the public, including a glowworm-filled tunnel that links to the Orongorongo Valley.

The Wellington Astronomical Society will share insights on Dark Sky awareness and preservation and provide a telescope for viewing the Moon and the Southern Cross. Talk to Remutaka Conservation Trust volunteers about their Kiwi release programme and nest monitoring efforts.

Wainuiomata Regional Park is working towards dark sky reserve accreditation, one of only three in the Southern Hemisphere. Light pollution from the city washes out most stars, but the park offers one of the best stargazing experiences in the region.

What to bring:

  • Torches/headlamps (red lenses preferred)
  • Sturdy waterproof footwear
  • Warm and wet weather clothing

Note: This event includes a steep hill walk in the dark. A moderate level of fitness is required, and it is not suitable for children under 15. 

This event is strictly limited to 30 people. Registrations for this event will be on a first in first served basis and opens at 10am on Tuesday 14 July via the link below.

Register here (opens 10am, Tuesday 14 July)

Updated May 28, 2026 at 11:42 AM