Heritage Stargazing at the Observatory Tower 2026

Join us for a 30 minute tour of the Observatory Tower and stargazing through the historic Townsend Teece Telescope (1864) every Friday evening until October. Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre and the University of Canterbury welcome you and your whānau and friends to join us on a short stargazing experience in the heart of the city. Join a small group tour, and climb up to the top of the Tower to the Observatory dome like generations of students past. View the southern sky through the Victorian-era Townsend Teece Telescope, under the guidance of astronomy students from the University of Canterbury. You’ll be able to view the moon, planets, and star clusters, including the stunningly colourful Jewel Box star cluster. Book now for this unique and memorable experience, numbers are strictly limited to 16 people per session. If you have a large organised group, please contact [email protected] to arrange a private tour. Please - no babes in arms, toddlers or very young children under 5 years old. Everyone requires a ticket to meet health and safety requirements. PLEASE wear a warm coat, sensible shoes and be prepared to climb 75 steep steps and be comfortable in a confined space. ALSO please arrive 10 minutes early for your session in order to be checked in. Parking can be tricky so leave plenty of time. We'd request that you have at least one accompanying adult present per two children, please. Note that the dome cannot be opened if it starts to rain during your session, or if the weather is windy, as the telescope is an antique. If the dome has to be closed during your session, you can still see the Tower, dome and Telescope. NOTE: The sessions may be cancelled by 5pm on the day if the weather is forecast to be cloudy, overcast, raining and/or windy. You will be notified by email and text, and receive a refund (minus the booking fee). This event is offered jointly by Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre and the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha. Note that you can action a self-service refund or cancellation (up to 3 days before the event) by using the Manage Order button on your order confirmation email.