Check out our educational flagship programme, SpacewardBound.NZ
In 2025, as we celebrate ten years of astrobiology in Aotearoa, we are organising a series of talks and events with special guests from NASA and the Blue Marble Space Institute of Science.
Celebrating 150 years of U.S.–NZ scientific partnership — from the 1874 Transit of Venus to today’s search for life beyond Earth.
In 1874, American scientists travelled to New Zealand to observe the Transit of Venus, beginning a tradition of scientific collaboration that has now spanned 150 years. Since that first joint astronomical expedition, the United States and New Zealand have partnered in fields as diverse as space exploration, climate science, Antarctic research, environmental protection, and indigenous knowledge. In 2024–2025, the U.S. Embassy in New Zealand is marking this milestone with events across the country, including our Ten Years of Astrobiology in New Zealand celebrations—bringing NASA scientists and communicators here to inspire the next generation of explorers.
This programme is proudly supported by the US Embassy in New Zealand.
Some of our events are run in partnership with Go-Carterton Wairarapa, the Earth and Space Science Educators of New Zealand (ESSENZ), Mount Maunganui College, and the Air Force Museum of New Zealand.
Talks, workshops, and events marking ten years of astrobiology in New Zealand.
Join the CelebrationAstrobiology explores life in the Universe — where it might exist, how it began, and whether we’re alone.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, our unique landscapes and cultural perspectives make us a natural home for this science. From geothermal fields to clear skies, Māori knowledge to NASA collaborations, we bring astrobiology to life through research, education, and outreach.
From Aotearoa to the Origins of Life. Ten years of astrobiology for a peaceful planet.
