Our oldest surviving observatory is only held up by a tree
One of New Zealand’s most important pieces of astronomical history was only a few seasons of cattle grazing away from being lost forever.
Held up by a walnut tree growing up through the middle, the old totara building near Featherston is one of the last of its kind in the world.
Having recently achieved category 1 historic place status on the New Zealand Heritage List, the building is now fenced off and protected from further degradation. The observatory was built in 1867 by civil servant and amateur astronomer Stephen Carkeek.
The Wairarapa Dark Skies Association was preparing at application for the region to be designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, and they see this historic site as yet another drawcard for stargazers. Chairwoman Viv Napier said the observatory brings in the heritage aspect of what they were trying to preserve.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
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10.5% Yes! New Year, New Me
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19.7% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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69.7% Nah - not for me
Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
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