Stonehenge Aotearoa

Explore the mysteries of Stonehenge Aotearoa! This unique open-air observatory, nestled in the beautiful Wairarapa countryside, is a modern take on ancient stone circles like Stonehenge and Callanish. Discover how people from cultures around the world used the sun, moon, and stars to navigate the globe and mark the passage of time. Wander among the massive stones and learn to identify constellations, track the movements of the sun, and understand the cycles of the moon. Our self-guided tour provides fascinating insights into the history of astronomy and the ingenuity of our ancestors. Stonehenge Aotearoa is a fascinating experience for all ages, whether you're a seasoned stargazer or simply curious about the world around you. Come unlock the secrets of the universe!

Join us for an evening filled with wonder, learning, and celestial beauty. Step back in time and celebrate one of the most significant days of the ancient calendar—the Winter Solstice. At Stonehenge Aotearoa. This event marks a moment of celestial and seasonal change. As the sun begins its descent, our Storyteller will transport you to the past with Tales of the Winter Solstice. You'll be invited to step into the Circle of Stones, a modern-day observatory that echoes the mysteries of ancient megalithic sites. Here, you'll have the opportunity to witness a breathtaking moment: weather permitting, you'll see the sun set perfectly aligned with the Winter Solstice Heel Stone in the west. The Autumn Equinox at Stonehenge Aotearoa is not just an event—it's an experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the world around you and the timeless traditions that continue to shape our lives.

Stonehenge Aotearoa offers a unique twist on the iconic monument. This modern, working observatory in New Zealand is designed for the Southern Hemisphere, incorporating Polynesian and Maori astronomical knowledge. Interactive tours engage visitors in learning how ancient cultures navigated and understood the cosmos. Set in the serene Wairarapa countryside, it provides a less crowded and more intimate experience than its UK counterpart. Explore the stars and delve into the fascinating world of archaeoastronomy at Stonehenge Aotearoa. Up to 50 people in a tour.

Join us for an evening filled with wonder, learning, and celestial beauty. Step back in time and celebrate one of the most significant days of the ancient calendar—the Autumn Equinox. At Stonehenge Aotearoa. This event marks a moment of celestial and seasonal change. As the sun begins its descent, our Storyteller will transport you to the past with Tales of the Autumn Equinox. You'll be invited to step into the Circle of Stones, a modern-day observatory that echoes the mysteries of ancient megalithic sites. Here, you'll have the opportunity to witness a breathtaking moment: weather permitting, you'll see the sun set perfectly aligned with the Equinox Heel Stone in the west. The Autumn Equinox at Stonehenge Aotearoa is not just an event—it's an experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the world around you and the timeless traditions that continue to shape our lives.

Join us for an evening filled with wonder, learning, and celestial beauty. Step back in time and celebrate one of the most significant days of the ancient calendar—the Spring Equinox. At Stonehenge Aotearoa. This event marks a moment of celestial and seasonal change. As the sun begins its descent, our Storyteller will transport you to the past with Tales of the Spring Equinox. You'll be invited to step into the Circle of Stones, a modern-day observatory that echoes the mysteries of ancient megalithic sites. Here, you'll have the opportunity to witness a breathtaking moment: weather permitting, you'll see the sun set perfectly aligned with the Equinox Heel Stone in the west. The Spring Equinox at Stonehenge Aotearoa is not just an event—it's an experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the world around you and the timeless traditions that continue to shape our lives.

4,500 year ago the migrations into the Pacific began and, the traditions of the Seven Sisters (Matariki) were carried into the Pacific by the Polynesians. In the dawn of early June, Matariki, the food bringer and her seven daughers rise the shoulder of Rangi to herald the beginning of the Maori New Year. At this time we see all the posts that hold up Rangi. The posts are stars. They are the basis of Maori astronomy. Also at this time, in the south, the Waka of Tama-rereti is berthed in the eyebrow of the sky. the stars of this waka are the basis of Polynesian navigation. In this presentation we explore the ancient legends and meanings of Matariki. We also explore the physical nature of this cluster of stars. Bookings are essential.

Delve into the rich tapestry of Māori and Polynesian astronomy with our engaging evening tour at Stonehenge Aotearoa. While the sacred time for observing Matariki (the Pleiades) traditionally occurs with its early morning rising, these same stars grace the evening sky in November. This presents a unique opportunity for those seeking to explore the cosmos in a comfortable, warm setting as the night sky darkens. Our tour begins as the sky transitions from twilight to night, creating an ideal environment for stargazing. Guided by knowledgeable astronomers, you will embark on a journey through ancient legends and the physical nature of the stars. This is a time of learning and understanding, where the mysteries of the heavens unfold through captivating stories and scientific insights.This tour provides a perfect blend of mythology and astronomy, making it suitable for all ages and interests.