When: Thursday, 3 April 2025, 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Where: Masterton District Council, Wairarapa, Waiata House, 27 Lincoln Road Masterton
Cost: NZD $75 (includes Session 1 & 2, practical stargazing session, and a personalised site visit)

Why Attend?

Wairarapa’s pristine dark skies aren't just spectacular—they’re a goldmine. With Astro-tourism booming, now is the perfect time for your business to turn this natural asset into an opportunity. Masterton District Council backs your success, sponsoring this course to ensure you're equipped to seize these exciting opportunities.

Session Schedule:

• Introduction to the Dark Sky Reserve: Learn about the reserve's boundaries and requirements to maintain its status.

• The Dark Sky Opportunity: Insights from Destination Wairarapa, exploring product development and business opportunities.

• Local Success Stories: Case studies of businesses effectively leveraging the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve.

• Astro-Tourism Strategies: Discover practical steps and successful models from New Zealand and around the world.

• Weather Management: Learn techniques for managing weather-related risks and maximising opportunities from astronomical events.

Expert Insights & Guest Speakers:

• Charlotte Harding (Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve): Updates and benefits of Wairarapa’s dark sky status.

• Graeme Murray: Exclusive video insights from Lake Tekapo’s renowned dark sky success story.

Special Guest: Professor Emeritus Philippa Gander

We are honoured to welcome Professor Emeritus Philippa Gander, an internationally recognised sleep scientist. With over four decades of pioneering research, including work with NASA and Harvard Medical School, Professor Gander brings unique insights into how aligning business operations with natural rhythms can enhance employee well-being and visitor experiences.

Her latest book, Night Owls and Early Birds: Rhythms of Life on a Rotating Planet, explores how Earth's cycles shape human biology and performance. It provides valuable perspectives for businesses aiming to operate in harmony with natural biological rhythms.

Plus:

• Hands-on Session 2 (17 April): Introduction to stargazing gear and techniques.

• Practical Stargazing Session (Date TBC): Telescope training, astrophotography basics, and real-world skills.

• Personalised Site Visit: One-on-one business assessment to enhance your site’s dark sky potential.

  
  

  Find out more

  https://www.wairarapa.space/look-after-our-night-sky/for-businesses/
  

Let’s make darkness our competitive advantage!

Ngā mihi,
Hari & Sam
Star Safari