Thomas King Observatory

In the past it has housed research, preservation of heritage, education and promotion of astronomy to the public.

In May 2001 refurbishment began of the 5-inch Grubb telescope housed in the Thomas King Observatory.

This telescope was made in 1882 by Grubb in Dublin and over its 120 years it is in remarkably good condition.

The Thomas King Observatory, was used until recently for public viewing of the sun during the day.

In the 1910s, members of the Wellington Philosophical Society formed an Astronomical Section to promote the study of astronomy and to erect an observatory for star-gazing.