Budding stargazers, amateur astronomers and aspiring astrotourism operators will gather in Kuaotunu this September for a three-day astronomy and astrotourism course designed to inspire a deeper appreciation of the night sky.
The event, organised by the Aotearoa Astrotourism Academy (AAA), will run from the afternoon of Friday, September 18 through to Sunday, September 20 at the Kuaotunu Community Hall, around 16 kilometres north of Whitianga.
Founded in 2021 by Emeritus Professor of Astronomy John Hearnshaw and former Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand president Nalayini Davies, the non-profit academy aims to promote astronomy education and support the growing astrotourism sector in New Zealand.
Professor Hearnshaw said the course would feature an intensive programme of talks, workshops and practical night-time observing sessions led by seven experienced astronomy and astrotourism experts from across the country.
Participants will learn about observing the stars with binoculars and small telescopes, astrophotography, Māori astronomy and Matariki, as well as the basics of astronomy and stellar science.
“No previous astronomy knowledge is required,” Professor Hearnshaw said.
The course is open to members of the public, astrotourism guides and teachers seeking to refresh their knowledge of astronomy and space science.
Highlights will include visits to the nearby Stargazers’ Observatory and B&B operated by local astronomer Alastair Brickell, who will also manage the Kuaotunu event.
Guest speakers include Holt Planetarium director Bruce Ngataierua on Māori astronomy and Te Arorangi Māori, astrophotographer John Drummond, and DarkSky International president Nalayini Davies, who will present a workshop on establishing astrotourism businesses.
Astronomer Alan Gilmore will guide participants through key objects visible in the southern night sky, while Gareth Davies will showcase deep-sky imaging technology and discuss international dark sky accreditation.
More information and registrations are available through the Aotearoa Astrotourism Academy.
