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.
What's On: TALK - MAKING ENDS MEET
TALK - MAKING ENDS MEET
- Room 5, Johnsonville Community Centre
Poll: Does the building consent process need to change?
We definitely need homes that are fit to live in but there are often frustrations when it comes to getting consent to modify your own home.
Do you think changes need made to the current process for building consent? Share your thoughts below.
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.
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91.6% Yes
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8% No
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0.4% Other - I'll share below!
Know Thy Neighbour? We are getting there!
We are loving seeing everyone's posts about themselves on our Know Thy Neighbour page.
Check out the neighbours in your area, you might find a walking group or choir to join and you might learn a few more neighbours names!
Feel like getting involved? Introduce yourself too, you might win one of our $50 Prezzy® card spot prizes...
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