Cawthron Atkinson Observatory (formerly Atkinson Observatory) is sited in the grounds of Clifton Terrace School, Nelson, New Zealand, after previously being situated at Pipers Park for many years.

[1] First operated in 1883, the observatory was founded by Arthur Atkinson, a keen amateur astronomer and Member of Parliament for Nelson.

The now relocated and renamed observatory formally opened on 12 April 2008, after completing a major refurbishment of the structure and 129-year-old telescope.

[1] This work was funded by contributions from various individuals and groups, such as a NZ$50,000 donation by the Cawthron Trust.

Star Parties are held once a month at the observatory, and society meetings are held the first Thursday of the month at Cawthron Institute, 98 Halifax Street East, Nelson.