Transform your location into a destination for stargazers.
We visit your site, assess its potential, and provide a tailored development plan, covering everything from lighting design, orientation and infrastructure to storytelling and enhanced visitor experience.
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We can support you to source and calibrate the right equipment, as well as deliver practical stargazing techniques, tips and tricks! All of our clients are connected into’ our astronomy portal - to maximise visitor experiences from astronomical events.

Equip your team with the skills to succeed within the growing astrotourism sector. Our 2 day hands-on package is delivered right here in the Wairarapa International Dark Sky Reserve.

The training package covers:

• Introduction to the reserve – boundaries, accreditation, the district plan and visitor statistics

• Astrotourism business models - through case studies, guest speakers and lived experience!

• Product design and visitor engagement, including managing weather risks

• Marketing and language for dark sky destinations

• Working with councils, mana whenua, and conservation agencies

• Understanding the principle of Kaitiakitanga, and cultural importance of the night sky

• Practical sessions ‘on the tools’ at our private observatory in Ponatahi

• Connect you with the business support and funding opportunities available

Achieving recognition as an International Dark Sky Place or Reserve can elevate your region to global significance. We can step you through understanding the full process,  from technical compliance to community engagement and application preparation. We can share the lessons learned and connect you with the correct contacts and equipment to accelerate the process.


Our expertise covers:

• Understanding IDSA (International Dark-Sky Association) standards

• Lighting management plans

• Data collection and mapping

• Policy alignment and partnership facilitation

Inspire your audience with expert insights on the future of dark sky tourism, through the grassroots story of Star Safari and how they put Wairarapa stargazing on the world map!We can tailor a presentation or keynote addresses for your conference, seminar or business summit, sharing lessons from our Wairarapa business startup journey.

Topics include:

• The economic potential of dark sky tourism

• Our grassroots experience of pioneering a business from our passion

• Partnering with the rural community for mutual success

• Turning astronomy into authentic storytelling for visitors

We bring our courses and workshops directly to your region, business or organisation. Choose from our existing suite of dark sky capability programmes, or work with us to tailor a training experience that fits your local goals.

Available formats:

• Half-day or full-day workshops

• Custom sessions aligned to regional or organisational priorities