Star Safari is our stargazing experience in the heart of the Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve

Star Safari

Tourism & Experiences

Star Safari is Carterton’s gateway to the cosmos. Run by local space ambassadors Hari Mogosanu and Sam Leske, Star Safari offers unforgettable stargazing experiences, education programmes, and astronomy outreach that connects people with the night sky — and their place in the universe.

With a stargazing location under one of the darkest skies in New Zealand, Star Safari blends science with culture and curiosity. Whether you’re a tourist, student, or lifelong learner, Hari and Sam invite you to look up and discover something extraordinary.


What We Offer:

  • Guided stargazing tours from our dark-sky observatory in Carterton
  • Educational programmes for schools, whānau, and visitors
  • The Dark Sky Business Capability Course, helping local businesses benefit from Wairarapa’s dark sky status
  • Public talks, astrophotography, and science outreach
  • Advocacy for dark sky preservation and space science education

About Us:

  • Hari is an astrobiologist and science communicator, passionate about our story
  • Sam is a former AirForce pilot and diplomat, now turning his gaze skyward

Together, they’ve welcomed thousands of visitors, students, and space-curious explorers from around the world.

“The stars belong to everyone — and we want to help you see them.”