Events Calendar

Celebrate Matariki and the extraordinary night skies of Central Otago at this free community event hosted by the Winterstellar Charitable Trust.

Central Otago is home to some of the most remarkable dark skies in the Southern Hemisphere. This event brings together world-class astrophotography, international speakers, and hands-on activities to celebrate what makes our night skies so unique AND to mark the launch of the Central Otago International Dark Sky Reserve Project.

Afternoon session. 12:00–4:00 pm. Free entry, all welcome.
Enjoy activities for children, a preview of the Winterstellar 2026 exhibition featuring award-winning astrophotography, night sky films in the Central Cinema, and expert information about the Dark Sky Reserve project and lighting options for our region.

Evening session. 4:30–7:30 pm. Free with booking.
Join us for the official launch of the Central Otago International Dark Sky Reserve Project, with presentations from Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve coordinator Charlotte Harding, the Island Stars team from Green Island, Taiwan, and Professor Brian Boyle on the unique qualities of the Otago night sky. The evening concludes with guided stargazing and an astrophotography workshop in Pioneer Park, weather permitting.

Book your evening place HERE

Location

Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery

21 Centennial Ave, Alexandra