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.
The Summer Kiwi Quiz is back by popular demand
Grab a copy of your local Stuff newspaper between 1 Jan - 28 Jan and participate in the Summer Kiwi Quiz! Test your knowledge, answer the daily New Zealand based questions, and find out how well you know our beautiful country!
Each correct answer will get you one entry into the draw to WIN 1 of 5 Ooni Karu 2 Portable Pizza Oven bundles, valued at $1024! Each bundle includes: an Ooni Karu 2 Multi-Fuel Portable Pizza Oven, Ooni Karu 2 Carry Cover, Ooni 12" Perforated Peel, Ooni Digital Infrared Thermometer and an Ooni Cookbook: Cooking with Ooni. The more answers you enter correctly, the higher your chance of winning. For more information and to submit your answers, click here
The Team at Stuff
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?
-
10.4% Yes! New Year, New Me
-
19.9% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
-
69.7% Nah - not for me
Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Loading…
