Open Night Astrophotography Waitawa Bay 2024
Open Night Astrophotography Waitawa Bay 2024
🕖 Duration: Approximately 7 hours (from 5pm)
🌐 Location: Waitawa Regional Park, Auckland
📅 Friday May 3
Free (limited to 13 participants, tickets must be purchased in advance)
Come along to our complimentary evening of social astrophotography, a perfect gathering for enthusiasts of all levels! From sunset until midnight, capture stunning images of the Milky Way, mingle, and exchange photography advice and techniques. Note that this event is informal and does not provide structured lessons. It's an excellent opportunity to meet fellow astrophotography lovers and enjoy lively discussions as you photograph the stars.
Please note that attendance for this event is strictly limited to 13 participants, as per our permit restrictions. Make sure to secure your spot by booking in advance. Unfortunately, anyone without a ticket will be required to leave by park security. Thank you for understanding and cooperating to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event for everyone.
Waitawa Regional Park is one of our favourite east-coast astro locations. We’ll shoot from high up on the hills where you have sweeping panoramic views of Kawakawa Bay and The Coromandel Peninsula. We can also shoot at the pier, close to the water, which often has bioluminescence and wonderful views out to Karamuramu Island.
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Itinerary:
We’ll meet at 5pm in the Tikapa Moana carpark (gates close at 7pm so please arrive before then).
We’ll shoot there from dusk. We may move to the Waitawa Wharf as the Milky Way changes position.
The meetup will officially finish at 1am, although it’s common for us to continue shooting if the conditions are clear.
Physical Difficulty:
All the locations at Waitawa Park are easily accessible by vehicle. You’ll never need to be more than a few meters from your car.
Equipment:
You must bring your own astrophotography equipment.
Suggested Gear Checklist:
A Camera (any modern digital camera with a detachable lens, recommended maximum ISO of 12’800 or higher)
A Sturdy Tripod (essential for night photography)
Wide angle lenses, 24mm or lower, with a minimum aperture of f/3.5 or less
Star Tracker (optional).
A Torch with red light (headlamps are the best option for this, available from all camping stores)
Charged batteries for all devices
Very Warm Clothes (It can be surprisingly windy and cold!)
A Thermos of Your favorite hot drink
Water and a snack
Please message us at highrestours@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns about gear.
Weather & Cancellations:
These workshops depend on clear skies, which can be a tricky thing in New Zealand! Open Nights are not rescheduled if the weather is bad, but we can give you a priority booking for the following month.
We will send you weather updates a couple of days ahead of time.