Space Place at Carter Observatory sits beside Wellington Botanic Garden, a short walk from the upper Cable Car terminal. It combines interactive astronomy galleries, a full-dome planetarium and the historic Thomas Cooke telescope.
What is Space Place?
Carter Observatory opened in 1941 as New Zealand's national observatory. Today, the public attraction is known as Space Place. Its exhibitions connect astronomy and space science with Aotearoa New Zealand's skies and stories.
What you can see
- Interactive displays about the Southern Hemisphere sky and space science
- Stories about Māori astronomy and navigation
- Digital planetarium presentations
- The historic Thomas Cooke telescope
Telescope viewing is weather-dependent. Check the day's programme and planetarium schedule before travelling, particularly if an evening observation is the main reason for your visit.
Admission
- Adult: NZ$16
- NZ student or Gold Card holder: NZ$14 with New Zealand identification
- Child aged 4–14: NZ$10
- Child aged 0–3: free
- Family, two adults and two children: NZ$49
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Prices were checked in October 2026 and may change.
Opening hours
During the 2026 school term:
- Monday: closed
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 5:00pm–10:30pm
- Thursday: 10:00am–10:30pm
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00am–11:00pm
- Sunday: 10:00am–5:00pm
During school and public holidays, Space Place opens from 10:00am daily, with later closing Tuesday to Saturday. It is closed on Christmas Day. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
Getting there by Cable Car
The Wellington Cable Car runs from Lambton Quay to Kelburn in about five minutes. The upper terminal is a short walk from Space Place through the Botanic Garden.
- Adult fare: NZ$7 one way or NZ$13 return
- Monday–Thursday: 7:30am–8:00pm
- Friday: 7:30am–9:00pm
- Saturday: 8:30am–9:00pm
- Sunday and public holidays: 8:30am–7:00pm
Fares and operating times were checked in October 2026. Confirm the latest details on the official Space Place website and the official Cable Car timetable.
Space Place works well as a half-day visit combined with the Cable Car, the Botanic Garden and the Kelburn lookout. For the clearest value, choose your planetarium session before arriving.