Stardome Observatory's gallery transformation was guided by the whakataukī: "Tātai whetū ki te rangi, tātai tangata ki te whenua" (A cluster of stars above, a gathering of people below). This project marks the first comprehensive integration of mātauranga Māori alongside Western scientific tradition in New Zealand's premier Observatory and Planetarium.
Stardome partnered with Professor Rangi Mātāmua, who provided expert knowledge and guidance to bring mātauranga Māori to the public. Working together, they devised a comprehensive star map for the ceiling displaying over 100 Māori names of whetū (stars), aorangi (planets), and constellations—the first time this has been unveiled publicly.
The complete overhaul of exhibition spaces demonstrates thoughtful spatial storytelling across five themed sections covering everything from our solar system to astronomical technologies. Each gallery section required careful design consideration to present both Western and Māori perspectives authentically, creating vibrant, hands-on experiences that connect visitors to the cosmos. The bilingual approach ensures cultural knowledge is positioned as equally valuable to scientific understanding, allowing visitors to learn both the Southern Cross and Māhutonga as legitimate ways of reading the night sky.
The design work creates an inclusive space where tangata whenua and tangata tiriti can explore their connection to the cosmos through multiple knowledge systems.
