Arataki Visitor Centre near Titirangi is the gateway to Waitākere Ranges Regional Park.
Although it’s only a 35-minute drive from Auckland’s city centre, there is very little light pollution in the area, making it the perfect place for stargazing.
Spectacular views of Te Māngōroa
You can enjoy the spectacular views of ngā whetū (the stars) and Te Māngōroa (the Milky Way) over the Waitākere Ranges and Manukau Harbour, and take the opportunity to do some astro-photography. You might even be visited by a ruru (morepork) while you’re there.
Perfect place to see ngā whetū
The ramps leading up to the visitor centre decks have been fitted out with soft lighting, so as not to interfere with natural starlight.
The decks are great for stargazing, or you can take a five-minute walk up Slip Track to the lookout.
Arataki’s entry gates close at 9pm; however, there is pedestrian access 24 hours a day.
