Heritage Experince and Sunset Stargazing

1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Most stargazing tours invite you to peer through a telescope at distant galaxies. Stonehenge Aotearoa’s new heritage experience, however, asks you to look back into human history first.

Set within the pristine darkness of the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve, this newly launched evening tour moves beyond standard astronomy to uncover how our ancestors actually read the sky. Before the first stars pierce the twilight over Carterton, visitors gather inside this modern, full-scale working henge for a presentation bridging two distinct navigation worlds: ancient Celtic stone lore and traditional Māori celestial navigation (tātai arorangi).

What's Included

Guide throughout tour
Some food items available from the shop/Visitors' Centre

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Stonehenge Aotearoa
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Stonehenge Aotearoa

    Join at Stonehenge Aotearoa, a full-scale working henge in the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve, for a heritage presentation exploring both European and Maori astronomical traditions. Afterwards, watch the sun set across the stones as the southern sky begins to reveal its stars. A rare chance to connect ancient heritage with modern astronomy, right here in Carterton. For older children and adults. Finishes approx 8pm Optional add-on: a specially developed "Star Talk" session exploring Maori astronomy and other ancient traditions (Egyptian and beyond) is available for small groups by request - ask on booking. Starts 9pm, finishes approx 10pm Booking is REQUIRED for this event. Costs vary with choices. This event is part of the 2026 Wellington Heritage Festival, running 24 October to 15 November.

    Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Stonehenge Aotearo

Tags

Cultural Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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