ANNUAL REPORT - Stardome · STEPHEN HAWKING MESSAGE Ross Sharp. FINANCIAL As can be seen from the enclosed statement of inancial ... ANNUAL REPORT 2014 9 In order to make an apple

ANNUAL REPORTFor the year ended 30th June 2014

ORION

STARDOME OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM

ANNUAL REPORT 2014 3

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Provide a superior, entertaining, and educational visitor

experience by utilising our knowledge, displays, and

interactive experiences to engage our customers. We will

make our facility as available as we can to the people of

Auckland, constantly working to maintain and develop

the facility as a leading Auckland icon.

SUSTAINABILITY

Ensure the ongoing sustainability of the organisation.

CULTURE

To encourage a culture within the organisation based on

a high-degree of ethics. To foster leadership, professional

attitudes and pride amongst the Stardome team,

encouraging creativity, new ideas, and innovation.

RESEARCH

Ensure that Stardome continues to be a leader in

astronomical research in New Zealand and a valuable

contributor to international astronomical research. The

Stardome research strategy centres around three key

elements; facilities, people, and collaboration.

WE WILL:

• Be the preferred and most trusted resource for

promoting astronomy to the people of New Zealand

• Exploit our unique location to make discoveries about

the Universe that excites interest in astronomy

• Inspire youth to value education and pursue careers

in science.

PASSIONWe are passionate about bringing the knowledge of space into the community.

RESPECTWe are considerate and value others.

INTEGRITYWe are sincere and act with honesty to others and ourselves.

INCLUSIONWe work as a team, involving those around us to utilise our strengths.

INNOVATIONWe seek out new ideas and concepts.

PURPOSE

VISION

VALUES

SAGITTARIUS



I am pleased to share the Stardome Observatory and

Planetarium 2014 Annual Report. Inside you’ll read all

about the achievements of the team and organisation,

made possible in part by support from our stakeholders

and supporters.

Encouraging a questioning mind, to look up, and

embrace learning at any age is at the heart of all

Stardome operations. In three years Stardome will

celebrate 50 years of showing the stars to explorers

young and old. The measure of success for nearly

half a century of sharing a love for space can be

seen in the continued high attendance of public,

and school children.

2013-2014 was a steadying year for Stardome. Visitor

figures are lower than the last financial period but still

up on the years before. The Visitors Solutions strategic

review which was completed last year is setting

Stardome in an exciting direction of innovation and the

organisation is well positioned for progress.

The education programme continues to reach eager

learners across Auckland. Over 31,986 students took

a trip to space as part of a school excursion. Each

watched a planetarium show, viewed the space gallery

and exhibits area and took part in a space lesson.

We are proud of this achievement and look forward

to continued growth in this area.

We would like to thank our key stakeholders and

champions. It is with their ongoing support that

Stardome is able to show Aucklanders the stars. The

relationships with stakeholders continues to strengthen,

and we would like to extend our sincere thanks to the

Auckland Council, Regional Amenities Funding Board,

Regional Facilities Auckland and the Tamaki Collective.

On behalf of the board I would also like to thank the

staff and volunteers of Stardome. The level of dedication

and enthusiasm for sharing astronomy with the public

deserves recognition. It is this spirit for sharing that

will continue to drive Stardome forward.

Ross Sharp, Chairperson

To confine our attention to terrestrial matters would be to limit the human spirit.

STEPHEN HAWKING

MESSAGE

Ross Sharp

FINANCIAL

As can be seen from the enclosed statement of financial

performance for the twelve months to 30 June 2014

Stardome achieved a net surplus of $201,752.

However, it must be borne in mind that this financial

statement has been prepared in accordance with current

accounting standards which require that special purpose

capital grants of $480,973 be recorded as revenue.

From an operating point of view, and excluding these

capital grants and before depreciation Stardome achieved

an operating surplus of $64,304 which approximately

equates to our operating cash surplus for the year.

Most of the income and expense items are generally in line

with the previous. However, it should be noted that the drop

in entrance fees was due to the 2013 figure being inflated by

the revenue from War of the Worlds, as referred to below.

VISITOR NUMBERS

Although paying visitor numbers were slightly down on the

previous year for a number of reasons outlined below, total

visitors to the facility as recorded by our Reveal visitor counting

system and after adjustment for staff movements exceeded

135,000 an incredible number for such a small facility.

As noted above, our paying visitors in 2014 were down on

the previous year for the following reasons.

• In 2013 we held a very successful ‘one-off’ show, War of

the Worlds, which attracted more than 3,500 visitors

• In 2013 there were more astronomical events than in 2014

• The planetarium was closed for almost two weeks to allow

for the upgrade project referred to below.

PLANETARIUM UPGRADE

Funded by charitable donations from Sir Po-Shing Woo

and Regional Facilities Auckland we undertook a number

of capital projects during the year including upgrading

our planetarium operation system from the Evans and

REPORTThe 2013/2014

year has been a very busy period

for Stardome staff, volunteers

and management and I would like

to comment on a number of

important areas.



Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science.

EDWIN POWELL HUBBLE

David Houldsworth

Sutherland D4 system to the state of the art Digistar

D5 system, replacing the block assemblies on our Sony

projectors, purchasing new seat bases and backs for the

planetarium seats and painting the exterior of the building.

At the same time as the planetarium upgrade, and funded

by a grant from Meridian Energy we took the opportunity

to install lasers and other special lighting effects in the

planetarium to enhance our very popular rock music shows.

EDUCATION

During the 2013-2014 year our education programs

continued to be very popular with school groups.

During the year we had a total of 31,986 children from

schools and kindergartens attend our education program.

In particular our lower decile school and Southern

Initiative programs proved to be very successful with

over 11,000 children attending our low decile scheme

and 2,904 children attending our Southern Initiative

scheme over the past twelve months.

We have continued to build our physical and online

education resources during the year to give teachers

a greater opportunity for pre and post visit astronomy

education.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion I would like to thank the entire management

team, our staff, and volunteers for their hard work and

support during the year.

I would also like to thank the members of our volunteer

trust board for their continued guidance over the past

twelve months and in particular, and on behalf of all

the staff at Stardome, I would like to acknowledge the

substantial contribution of our chair Ross Sharp, who is

stepping down after three years.

David Houldsworth, CEO

highlights

OV

ER

6,500SCHOOLHOLIDAYVISITORS49

2,707

WE

BS

ITE

PA

GE

VIE

WS

4.5 trip advisor rating

73,610 paying visitors

Over 135,000 visitors in the 2013-2014 period

revenue generatedOver $66,000

PRE-SCHOOL KIDS VISITED STARDOME:3,302

SCHOOL TRIP

28,684STUDENTSVISITED STARDOME FOR A

2,904 children visiting through the Southern Initiative Scheme

low decile school visitors: 11

,20

8

from venue hire



In order to make an apple pie from scratch you must first create the universe.

CARL SAGAN

CONTROL

90,000

80,000

70,000

60,000

50,000

40,000

30,000

20,000

10,000

0

Total Attendance

66,704

71,750

80,240

73,610

2011 2012 2013 2014

VISITS

As highlighted above, Stardome had over 135,000 visitors and

73,610 paying visitors during the year.

This year, a more considered approach was taken towards

open days with a view to giving customers a fuller experience.

Previous open days at Stardome have been accompanied

by long lines and a short time in the building. Auckland

Anniversary Day and Children’s Day in 2014 were lower in

visitation but both days, particularly Children’s Day had a more

relaxed feel and customers spent more time at Stardome.

Visitors enjoyed more onsite activities with a bouncy castle,

Science in a Van and a candy floss stand. Going forward,

Stardome intends to increase the number of open days back

to four per year but with the same approach of offering a full

experience at Stardome with interactive activities.

ATTENDANCE

Note:

(1) The Planetarium was closed for two weeks during

2013/2014 while the upgrade to the Planetarium Operating

System occurred.

(2) Total attendance in 2013 was boosted by more than

3,500 visitors at the one off War of the Worlds show

and by a number of special astronomical events.

(3) Total visitors are estimated to be in excess of 135,000. Our

newly installed Reveal visitor counting system recorded

148,000 “entries” which equates to in excess of 135,000

visitors when the total is adjusted for staff movements.

MISS WELLS,

SCIENCE TEACHER,

HOWICK INTERMEDIATE

My group watched

a show called ‘Two

Pieces of Glass’ about

the history of the

telescope and how far

it has developed with

todays technology. It

also taught us about

the discoveries that

telescopes have

helped with. We then

went and listened

to a talk about how

much fuel and speed

space shuttles need

to get up into outer

space! Students

in my group were

especially amazed to

see a video by Chris

Hadfield about how

astronauts brush

their teeth in space!

REGIONAL REACH

We are pleased to see an increase in the Manukau and

Papakura regions, and attribute part of this to the low decile

scheme, open days and the increased marketing presence

around the region.

South Auckland has been a particular focus for us, and

our Southern Initiative Scheme has resulted in a significant

increase in visitation from South Auckland.

40%

35%

30%

25%

20%

15%

10%

5%

0%

Auc

klan

d City

Nort

h Sho

re

Wai

take

re

Man

uaka

u

Rodney

Papak

ura

Frank

lin

New

Zea

land

Ove

rsea

s

KEY: 2012 2013 2014

EDUCATION

Stardome’s LEOTC contract was extended in 2013 and

remains in place.

With over 28,684 visits from school children, Stardome is

able to continue to offer a school trip to space at $5 per child.

As highlighted Stardome was visited by 11,208 students

from low decile schools and 2,904 children came to

Stardome as part of the Southern Initiative Scheme. We

are very proud of these figures and will continue to make

Stardome available to all Aucklanders, giving young people

the chance to experience astronomy-based learning outside

the classroom.

Over 166 schools visited Stardome from across Auckland

and beyond. In this period Stardome noticed a change in

the geographic reach, with high numbers from the West and

South Auckland.

This year Stardome sent out 34,500 Matariki booklets. This

is the second year of this initiative and the reach expanded

to include primary schools from all Auckland regions. The

booklet was also made available for schools as a PDF,

so that it could be printed at school for distribution. The

feedback from this outreach is overwhelmingly positive and

Stardome will continue to build on this education material

and reach out further to other school levels and regions.

MAVERICK,

TE KOWHAI SCHOOL,

HAMILTON (YEAR 4)

I learnt that three

planets are made out

of gas and acid. It will

crunch you if you go

in too close.



STARDOME LOW DECILE SUBSIDY SCHEME

The Stardome Low Decile Subsidy Scheme continues to

thrive, and the 2013/2014 year has exceeded previous years

with 11,208 students attending the program.

YEAR ATTENDANCE

2010/2011 4,304

2011/2012 6,581

2012/2013 9,243

2013/2014 11,208

Feedback from attendees has been extremely positive, and

for many schools this is their only learning experience outside

the classroom for the year.

There has been a drop in attendance from schools in Decile

4-7. This continues to be a concern, and is an area of focus for

education operations going forward. Feedback from teachers

from this Decile range is that the cost of transport is inhibitive.

STARDOME SOUTHERN INITIATIVE SCHEME

Our first year of this scheme has been hugely successful

with 2,904 at needs youth attending a Stardome education

session, compared with a budgeted 2,000 for the year. We

now have a waiting list for this program which highlights the

need for such support in South Auckland.

2010/2011

16,000

14,000

12,000

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

0

KEY: 1–3 4–7 8–10

2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014

SOUTHERN CROSS

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

Stardome has two customer satisfaction measurement

systems to reflect our different businesses – Education and

Public Shows.

PUBLIC VISITORS

Our public visitors are monitored via an on site kiosk which

asks a number of questions including geographic region, age

and satisfaction rating. This kiosk is situated by our front door

and is available to all visitors. Our analysis of the data over the

past year shows an 89% satisfied or better rating.

EDUCATION

As part of Stardome’s customer focused approach all schools

are given an evaluation form to complete after their visit. This

consists of eight detailed questions about their experience

at Stardome. The results of their feedback are monitored by

the Management team on a monthly basis and are valued

opportunities to build on the education offering.

The combined overall rating from public and education

feedback is 93%.

50%

45%

40%

35%

30%

25%

20%

15%

10%

5%

0%

Excellent Above Average Average NeedsImproving

Poor

30%

47%

21%

2%0%

I learnt a lot of things. I learnt that you’re not allowed to land your Spaceship on gas giants.

AVA,

TE KOWHAI SCHOOL,

HAMILTON (YEAR 4)

SCORPIUS



BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: STARDOME.ORG.NZ / 09 624 1246

$10ADULT

$8CHILD

Adults and

8+ yrs

PLEASECHECK OUR

WEBSITE FOR SHOW DATES AND TIMES

PASSPORTTO THE

UNIVERSE


$10 CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR SHOW DATES AND TIMES

PLANETARIUM SHOWCelebrate the pivotal discoveries that have led astronomers to confront two great cosmic mysteries: dark matter and dark energy.

Featuring Neil deGrasse Tyson from ‘Cosmos’.

Book now at www.stardome.org.nz / 09 624 1246

Christmas music, lights and lasers. Fun for the whole family!

Planetarium Music, Laser & Light Show

Planetarium Music, Laser & Light Show

$10 ADULT

$8 CHILD

$30 FAMILY


$10ADULT

$8CHILD

Family viewing6+ yrs

PLEASECHECK OUR

WEBSITE FOR SHOW DATES AND TIMES

Recline in the planetarium and learn about the planets, stars and constellations visible right now above Auckland.

PLANETARIUM SHOW

NIGHT SKYTHE

8PM WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY

TO BOOK CALL 09 624 1246 / stardome.org.nz

$10 Adult

$8 Child

PLANETARIUM

LIGHT SHOW

Hold on to your seats as you experience surround-sound, lights, lasers and motion in the Planetarium, all to the soundtracks of your favourite rock bands.

Pink Floyd

U2

Led Zeppelin

or Rock on Demand

your own “Jukebox” selection of music


EXPERIENCE

Project management of the Strategic Review has

begun and Stardome is working with external

consultants to achieve this vision.

Our most popular show continues to be the

Night Sky show and Pink Floyd Music and Laser

Lights Double Feature. The seasonal Night Sky

shows saw an 8% increase in attendance on the

previous year.

Valentines Night at Stardome was a resounding

success with four sold out shows. The evening

included wine, delicious food and a romantic gift

box with a bottle of wine, wine glasses and an

Adopt a Star.

The 2013-2014 period saw a range of new

planetarium shows added to the Stardome

library. Two films were purchased from the

American Natural History Museum, Passport

to the Universe and Dark Universe. Back to the

Moon for Good, To Space and Back, Dinosaurs at

Dusk and the Christmas themed Let it Snow were

also acquired, refreshing our schedule of shows.

GIVE YOUR PARTNER THE STARS THISVALENTINE’S DAYVALENTINE’S DAY

$140per couple

Includes: Two tickets to a romantic planetarium show,an adopt a star ($60 value), a bottle of bubbles to share, two champagne flutes,

chocolate hearts, nibbles on arrival. 18+

event

FRIDAY

14thFEBRUARYSESSIONS AT: 7PM, 8PM, 9PM

& 10PM


RESOURCEMANAGEMENT TEAM

• CEO

David Houldsworth

• Finance and

Operations Manager

Melissa Glew

• Public Programmes

Manager

Jill Jessop

• Chief Technology Officer

Colin James

• Marketing Manager

Delyse Diack

THE TEAM AT STARDOME

The small, but highly committed team is Stardome’s best

resource. Our team of professional and amateur astronomers,

presenters, educators, office and management team directly

contribute to the success of the organisation.

The education team received presentation training earlier

this year from Six Degrees, business development specialists.

This training focused on creating powerful presentations

by using voice modulation, eye contact and understanding

different styles of communications.

The management team also engaged in communication

training in the year.

This year we welcomed Vanessa Rancour and John Rowe to

the education team. David Britten and Tim Jessop continue to

add value in their educator roles.

Sadly we said farewell to Beth van der Loeff who has

returned to her passion of classroom teaching.

We also said goodbye to Jo Creagh Marketing Manager who

has relocated out of Auckland.

Delyse Diack has taken up the challenge of Marketing

Manager and is well supported by Jasmine McConnachie

(Events Co-Ordinator) and Mary Ebbett (Graphic Designer).

Emma Armitage and Wendy Kearns both worked at

Stardome throughout their college years, and into university.

They have been the smiling faces that have greeted visitors to

the observatory for over seven years. Both now have full time

work in their chosen fields, and will be sadly missed.

Special recognition must be given to two members of

the management team. Jill Jessop, the Public Programmes

Manager, has been at the observatory for 18 years and has

made an invaluable contribution to the team. Jill has worked

tirelessly to provide a seamless service to our customers, and

Aditi Kumar

Andrea Furch

Brooke Anderson

David Britten

Dylan Storey

Eleanor Kearns

Jasmine

McConnachie

Jill Bourke

John Rowe

John Steemson

Kevin Ng

Kirsty Donovan

Maanya Tandon

Margaret Biswas

Mary Ebbett

Melanie Pohl

Petra Tang

Pooja Sundar

Sacha McConnachie

Samantha Zhang

Tim Jessop

Tobias Raabe

Tom List

Tyler Boyd

Vanessa Rancour

STA

FF



leadership to the Stardome

presenting and volunteer

team. As a demonstration of

her commitment to sharing

astronomy knowledge, Jill is

an Education Advisor to the

Digital Users Group and recently joined the IPS Education

Committee. Her passion for astronomy, operational expertise,

and customer focus is highly valued.

Colin James, our Chief Technology Officer has been with

Stardome for 17 years. Colin provides invaluable technical

support to Stardome, ensuring that technology and software

upgrades are implemented without issue, and providing

top-level IT guidance for Stardome operations. Colin is also a

Stardome presenter and over the years, has been instrumental

in training presenters in operating the Digistar system. Colin

is President of the Digital Users Group, an international

forum for knowledge exchange regarding the Digistar digital

planetarium system. As the Chief Technology Officer he

oversees all technology at Stardome, his biggest project this

year being the technology upgrade. This was completed

without issue or delay, a testament to Colin’s management

skills and knowledge.

Stardome would also like to mention Jasmine McConnachie,

the Stardome events coordinator. Jasmine celebrated 10 years

at Stardome this year. She is a valued member of the team

and with the Stardome team, has built the events function of

Stardome to be a highly successful venture.

Stardome Observatory and Planetarium Board and

management team would like to thank and recognise the

contribution of the valued Stardome team and volunteers.

BOARD MEMBERS

• Chairperson

Ross Sharp

• Treasurer

Ian Malcolm

• Trustees

Margaret Arthur

David Hosking

Jeanette Paine

Richard Northey

Andrew Buckingham

Geoff Mason

Bill Thomas

• Honorary Secretary

Kevin Murphy

Alaric Southern

Alex Zharkov

Andrew Buckingham

Arthur Gay

Ayushi Kachhara

Bill Goldstone

Bill Thomas

Brett Clark

Christopher Christian

Chris Hollis

Danut Lonescu

Derick Galea

Emily Parkin

Glenn Smith

Haydn Ngan

Janidhu Somathilaka

Jason Wells-Lakeland

John Rowe

Jonathan Lewis

Max Arshavsky

Oana Jones

Oliver Sanders

Oluka Dushyantha

Oreste Pinto

Patrick Sharp

Paul Jones

Paul Ketko

Paul Taylor

Phil Foster

Tony Messanger

VO

LU

NT

EE

RS

Back row, left to right: Geoff Mason, Kevin Murphy, Jeanette Paine, Andrew Buckingham,

Bill Thomas, Richard Northey. Front row, left to right: Ian Malcolm, Ross Sharp,

David Houldsworth. Absent: David Hosking, Margaret Arthur.

Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.

CARL SAGAN

Stardome’s vision is to demonstrate considered sustainability

practices by:

• Strengthening relationships with funders

• Ensuring the Education program is of a standard that will

continue to attract LEOTC funding.

• Increase revenue through increased attendance at public

and education programs.

• Ensuring sustainability and renewal of technology

and displays.

• Seek out new customer groups and new revenue sources

to grow the business.

• Develop closer working relationships with local Iwi.

With a holistic sustainability approach, Stardome is committed

to celebrating the customer and creating a customer focused

environment. We will seek out opportunities for sponsorship

that will enhance the Stardome experience and be aware that

the environment (both on Earth and in Space) is special and

deserves care and attention.

Stardome’s commitment to being a green organisation

continues. Where possible, all office and event rubbish is

recycled. Recently Stardome switched providers to use

environmentally friendly paper and cleaning products.

The unique Stardome building layout continues to challenge

operations. This year Stardome initiated plans to create

storage space, freeing up room for additional displays.

Work on the Sun Room was finished, protecting it against

damp and the external environment and improvement has

been noticed in these areas.

CANIS MAJOR



Stardome continues to be called upon for comment on

astronomical events. Highlights from 2013-2014 include:

• Full page article in NZ Herald regarding the lunar

eclipse (31 March 2014)

• Breakfast, Firstline and Seven Sharp coverage of the lunar

eclipse (14/15 April 2014)

• Matariki coverage on Breakfast, One News, Maori television

and What Now on Matariki

• Coverage in NZ Herald and Good Morning on the new planet

discovered (4 July 2014)

• 20/20 Mars adventure at Stardome. (7 August 2014)

• The Moe Show at Stardome (24 September 2014)

The Planetarium industry is constantly evolving; new

technologies are being developed to take audiences on more

wondrous journeys, and providing presenters with the tools to

develop rich stories and educational experiences.

During October 2013, Stardome closed its doors to the

public for ten days and begun the process of upgrading its

systems and installing new features to enhance the overall

audience experience.

A key element within the planetarium is the two large

Sony SRX-105 (SXRD) projectors. These ultra-high-resolution

projectors were installed during the initial digital upgrade and

had been running without a glitch for around 13,000 hours, so

they were in need of an overhaul to continue to operate into

the future.

The core component to the planetarium is the Evans and

Sutherland Digistar software and hardware, which provides all

the astronomical content, and allows for the playback of full

dome show content.

With the release of Digistar 5 and its powerful new

astronomical features, Stardome was in need of not only a

software upgrade, but a full hardware replacement to be able

fully realise the capability of this new system.

By replacing the planetarium hardware Stardome has

gained the ability to further enhance the audience experience

through future software releases and the new features they

may bring.

At the same time the planetarium projectors were

refurbished and new laser and lighting effects were installed

to enhance the popular music shows.

The upgrade has given Stardome the capability to educate,

entertain, and inspire audiences for years to come.

Stardome’s research programme is led by Honorary

Astronomer Dr Grant Christie MNZM, supported by Tim

Natusch and Haydn Ngan.

Our key international collaborations have continued with

MicroFUN and the IAU Minor Planets Center, both now extending

over 10 years. MicroFUN (Microlensing Follow-up Network) is an

international collaboration of scientists that discovers planets

orbiting distant stars. It has made a significant contribution to

estimating the number of planets in our galaxy.

• Our research programme continues to produce excellent

science outcomes. We have published seven papers in major

international peer-reviewed journals reporting discoveries

that engage and excite the wider public.

• We were delighted to have a second paper published by the

prestigious journal Science. This reported the first discovery

of an Earth-like planet orbiting within a binary star system

and resulted in a high level of national media exposure.

• Stardome has now contributed to the discovery of over 25

planets around other stars, including a planetary system that

is still the closest match yet to our own solar system.

• Stardome’s research telescope has been upgraded with a

new high-technology mounting that allows a high level of

robotic operation.

The Auckland Astronomical Society membership continues

to show a steady increase in members, with 604 members

reported at the beginning of September 2014.

Over the year ending June 2014 there were 2,968 society

member visits to Stardome for AAS organised events.

Dr Grant Christie stood down from the role of society

president after six years of service and Bill Thomas was

elected President. The following officers were elected:

President: Bill Thomas

Vice President: Grant Christie

Secretary: Gavin Logan

Treasurer: Andrew Buckingham

Librarian: Jerina Grewar

Editor: Clive Bolt

Curator: Graham Beazley

Councillors: Bernie Bremner,

David Britten, Oana Jones,

Steve Hennerley and

Johnathan Green

The relationship between the AAS and Stardome is highly

valued by Stardome and the organisation looks forward to

many more years of working together to bring astronomy to

the Auckland public.

The nitrogen in our DNA, the calcium in our teeth, the iron in our blood, the carbon in our apple pies were made in the interiors of collapsing stars. We are made of starstuff.

CARL SAGAN

• Auckland Council

• Sir Po-Shing Woo

• Meridian Energy

• Giesen Wines

• Regional Facilities

Auckland

• The Lion Foundation

• ASB Community Trust

• Sir John

Logan Campbell

Residuary Estate

• Four Winds Foundation

• Oxford Sports Trust

• Sky City

• Todd Foundation

• Edith Winstone-

Blackwell

• The Pub Charity

• The Lottery

Grants Board

in appreciationTHANKS TO OUR SPONSORS



For the year ended 30th June 2014

FINANCIALSTATEMENTS



AUCKLAND OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM TRUST BOARD

For the twelve months ended 30th June 2014Statement of Financial Performance

Note 30 June 2014 30 June 2013

$ $

REVENUEEducational Income 301,774 294,208

Entrance Fees 280,220 378,049

Interest Received 23,829 32,382

Special Purpose Capital Grants Received 9 480,973 103,256

Other Grants Received 9 23,220 70,172

Operational Grants 9 1,119,000 1,020,000

Shop Income 139,478 133,257

Event Hire Income 66,341 50,273

Donations & Adopt A Star 44,301 42,692

Pro Bono Audit Donation 3 12,000 12,000

Total Revenue 2,491,136 2,136,289

LESS EXPENSESCommunication & Computer Expenses 67,211 81,524

Development Expenses 85,237 180,042

Consulting Expenses 89,006 14,264

Interest 88,985 89,263

General Administration Expenses 16,349 16,758

Maintenance 171,505 220,740

Promotion 347,198 336,958

Shows/Displays 121,344 212,454

Wages & Salaries 905,250 837,306

Utilities, Rates And Insurance 41,771 42,823

Depreciation As Per Schedule 2 343,528 430,398

Asset Impairment 10 - 367,563

Audit Fees 3 12,000 12,000

Total Expenses 2,289,384 2,842,093

NET (DEFICIT)/SURPLUS 201,752 (705,804)

The attached notes form part of and are to be read in conjunction with the financial statements.

The Board of Trustees authorize the issue of these financial statements.




For the twelve months ended 30th June 2014Statement of Movement in Trust Funds

30 June 2014 30 June 2013

$ $

TRUST FUNDS AT START OF PERIOD 900,655 1,606,459

SURPLUS AND REVALUATIONS

Net (Deficit)/Surplus for the year 201,752 (705,804)

Total Recognized Revenues & Expenses for the period 201,752 (705,804)

TRUST FUNDS AT END OF PERIOD 1,102,407 900,655




For the twelve months ended 30th June 2014Statement of Financial Position

Note 30 June 2014 30 June 2013

$ $

TRUST FUNDS

Retained Earnings 1,102,407 900,655

Total Trust Funds 1,102,407 900,655

Represented By:

CURRENT ASSETS

Cash At Bank 426,908 523,386

Committed Funds 315,324 305,658

Cash Register Funds 503 -

GST Refund Due 10,511 8,543

Accounts Receivable & Prepayments 65,249 61,473

Inventories - Good Held For Re-Sale 41,730 30,357

Total Current Assets 860,225 929,417

NON CURRENT ASSETS

Property, Plant & Equipment 11 2,489,630 2,381,356

Total Non-Current Assets 2,489,630 2,381,356

TOTAL ASSETS 3,349,855 3,310,773

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Accounts Payable & Accruals 203,405 337,739

Regional Facilities Auckland Loan 7 33,333 25,000

Unexpended Special Funds 9 85,426 88,762

Total Current Liabilities 322,164 451,501

NON CURRENT LIABILITIES

Regional Facilities Auckland Loan 7 1,925,284 1,958,617

Total Non-Current Liabilities 1,925,284 1,958,617

TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,247,448 2,410,118

NET ASSETS 1,102,407 900,655






For the year ended 30th June 2014Notes to Financial Statements

1. STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a) Entity

Auckland Observatory and Planetarium Trust Board is incorporated under the provisions of the

Charitable Trusts Act 1957.These Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with generally

accepted accounting practice.

(b) Measurement Base

The financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis modified by the revaluation of

certain assets as identified in the specific accounting policies. The Trust has chosen not to adopt the

New Zealand Equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (“NZ IFRS”). The decision

not to adopt is consistent with exemption provided by External Reporting Board (“XRB”) A1. XRB A1

provides a choice to certain qualifying entities to either adopt NZ IFRS or to continue to apply New

Zealand Financial Reporting Standards (“NZ FRS”). The Trust is a qualifying entity on the basis that it is

not considered large (less than $20m revenue and $10m total assets).

The External Reporting Board (XRB) has introduced a revised Accounting Standards Framework

for reporting entities in New Zealand. The revised Framework is based on a multi-sector, multi-tiered

reporting approach and is being rolled-out progressively during the next three financial years. The

revised framework will see the introduction of accounting standards for Public Benefit Entities (PBEs)

based on International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) that have been modified, as

appropriate, for New Zealand circumstances. The Financial Reporting Act 2013 (FRA 2013) applies to

any reporting period beginning on or after 1 April 2014 and it brings the revised Accounting Standards

Framework into law.

Under the revised Framework the trustees have assessed Auckland Observatory and Planetarium

Trust Board will be a not-for-profit public benefit entity reporting under Tier 2 Not-for-profit PBE

Accounting Standards, as they are not publicly accountable and not large. At the time of authorising

these financial statements for issue, a full assessment of the impact of the change from NZ FRS to PBE

IPSAS standard has not yet been undertaken.

(c) Changes in Accounting Policies

There have been no changes in accounting policies. All policies have been applied on a basis consistent

with those used in previous years. The following specific accounting policies which materially affect the

measurement of financial performance and position have been applied:

(d) Differential Reporting

The entity qualifies for differential reporting as it is not publicly owned and it is not large. The Trust has

taken advantage of all available differential reporting exemptions other than FRS19: Accounting for

Goods and Services Tax.

(e) Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant & Equipment - During the year ended 31 December 2004 the decision was made to

cease revaluing Property, Plant & Equipment and adopt historical cost. Properties, Plant & Equipment

are stated at cost less aggregated depreciation.

Buildings & Domes 2.0% - 48.0% SL

Fixed Astronomical Equipment 5.5% - 12.5% SL

Telescope & Accessories 5.5% - 6.0% SL

Planetarium Equipment 12.5% - 48.0% SL

Furniture, Library & Office Equipment 5.5% - 50.0% SL

Projection / Sound & Display System 12.5% - 36.0% SL

Computers & Research Equipment 28.8% - 48.0% SL

Displays/ Exhibits 12.5% - 30.0% SL

Upgrade Project 2.0% - 30.0% SL



(f) Foreign Currencies

Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are converted at the exchange rate current at the

transaction date. Foreign currency receivables and payables are converted at exchange rates current at

balance date. Foreign exchange gains or losses are included as income or expenses respectively in the

Statement of Financial Performance.

(g) Goods & Services Tax

The Statement of Financial Performance has been prepared on a GST exclusive basis. All items in the

Statement of Financial Position are stated net of GST, with the exception of Accounts Receivables and

Payables.

(h) Inventories

Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost, and net realisable value. This is determined on a first in

first out basis.

(i) Revenue Recognition Policy

In respect of grant and donation income, donations made by visitors are classified under general

income and recognised on receipt. Donations and grants for specific projects are taken as income

in the accounting period that the project occurs. Grants unexpended at balance date are shown as

Unexpended Special Funds in the Statement of Financial Position.

(j) Receivables

Receivables are stated at their estimated realisable value. Bad debts are written off in the year in which

they are identified.

(k) Prior period comparatives

Certain prior period comparatives have been reclassified to conform with current year classification.

2. DEPRECIATION EXPENSE

30 June 2014 30 June 2013

$ $

Building & Dome 48,353 45,662

Fixed Astronomical Equipment 12,730 12,372

Telescopes 2,583 2,281

Furniture, Library and Office Equipment 6,300 9,161

Planetarium Equipment 54,599 774

Projection/Sound System & Display Units 10,713 24

Computers, Peripherals, Research 22,078 17,343

Display Exhibits 4,739 4,661

Upgrade Project 181,433 338,120

343,528 430,398









3. AUDIT FEES

The audit has been performed by Grant Thornton on a pro bono basis.

Fees paid during the year: Nil (2013: Nil).

4. CAPITAL COMMITMENTS

At reporting date the Trust Board had committed to the completion of the Sundial Project at a cost of

$5,000. (2013: $5,020).

The Trust Board have committed to an upgrade of the Planetarium technology with a NZD cost of $Nil.

(2013: $280,000).

5. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

At reporting date there are no known contingent liabilities. (2013: Nil).

6. DERIVATIVES

The trust has entered into forward exchange contracts to fund the Planetarium upgrade which will be

invoiced in US dollars. FX Contracts totalling USD $Nil (2013: $195,000) are in place, and the mark to market

value of these contracts at reporting date is a loss of NZD $Nil (2013: $6,800).

7. TERM LOANS

As part of the funding of Auckland Observatory and Planetarium redevelopment the Board obtained a loan

of $1,000,000 from Auckland City. An additional $865,000 was provided by Auckland City to complete the

upgrade.

As part of the restructure of the governance of the Auckland region the Auckland Council assigned

these loans to Regional Facilities Auckland. Repayment of these loans at a rate of $33,333.33 per annum

commenced from October 2013. The interest rate on these loans is 4.5% and the final maturity of these

loans is 1 July 2025.

The fair value of these loans has not been disclosed as the Trustees consider that it is not practicable to

estimate that value within an acceptable level of reliability within the restraints of timeliness and cost.

8. PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY

The principal activity of the business is research, education and entertainment services in the science of

Astronomy from its premises located in One Tree Hill, Domain, Auckland.





9. GRANTS

Grants Received From PurposesUnrecognised @ 01.07.2013

New GrantRecognised

2013/2014Closing Grant

30.06.2014

2014 COUNCIL OPERATIONAL GRANTS

Regional Amenities Funding Operational Funding 2013/2014 - 1,119,000 1,119,000 -

- 1,119,000 1,119,000 -

2014 OPERATIONAL GRANTS

Auckland City Council Education Program materials 800 - 800 -

Sir Po Shing Woo Painting of building exterior - 22,420 22,420

800 22,420 23,220 -

2014 SPECIAL PURPOSE GRANTS

Lion Foundation Upgrade to Sunroom - 10,000 - 10,000

Regional Facilities Auckland Special projects - 213,477 213,477 -

Sir Po Shing Woo Grant Special projects - 191,830 191,830 -

Pub Charity Sundial Exhibit 5,020 - 5,020 -

Meridian Energy Grant as per agreement - 20,000 20,000 -

The Edith Winstone Blackwell Foundation Trust

Grant for Telescope 55,658 9,666 17,182 48,142


50th Commemorative Book 15,000 - - 15,000

Meridian Energy Monthly power offset grant - 33,464 33,464 -

Turner Construction Grant Grant for earthworks on sundial 3,000 - - 3,000

ASB Charitable Trust Te Reo translation 9,284 - - 9,284

87,962 478,436 480,973 85,426







Grants received from PurposesUnrecognised

@01.07.2012New grant

Recognised 2012/2013

Closing grant 30.06.2013

2013 COUNCIL OPERATIONAL GRANTS

Regional Amenities Funding Operational Funding 2013/2013 - 1,020,000 1,020,000 -

- 1,020,000 1,020,000 -

2013 OPERATIONAL GRANTS

Auckland City Council Education Program materials 800 - - 800

Regional Facilities Auckland Roof repairs grant - 54,972 54,972 -

COGS-Waitakere Electricity - 2,650 2,650 -

Todd Foundation Curious Classrooms - 2,550 2,550 -

NZ Lotteries Low Decile School Subsidisation - 10,000 10,000 -

800 70,172 70,172 800

2013 SPECIAL PURPOSE GRANTS

Pub Charity Sundial Exhibit 14,020 - 9,000 5,020

ASB Community Trust ipad Grant - 23,326 23,326 -


Grant for Telescope 44,578 11,080 - 55,658


50th Commemorative Book 15,000 - - 15,000

Infinity Foundation Trolleys for ipads - 5,760 5,760 -

Meridian WOTW Sponsorship - 10,000 10,000 -

Bounce WOTW Sponsorship - 296 296 -

Meridian Energy Monthly power offset grant - 42,474 42,474 -

Turner Construction Grant Grant for earthworks on sundial - 3,000 - 3,000

ASB Charitable Trust Te Reo translation 21,684 - 12,400 9,284

95,282 95,936 103,256 87,962

2014 2013

$ $

Operational Grants 1,119,000 1,020,000

Other Grants Received 23,220 70,172

Special Purpose Grants 480,973 103,256

1,623,193 1,193,428

Grants Recognised Represented by:





10. ASSET IMPAIRMENT

There were no impairment losses for assets as at 30 June 2014. (2013: An impairment loss of $367,563 was

incurred in respect of the multimedia upgrade).





2013 Additions Disposals Impairment 2014

$ $

BUILDING AND DOME

2,065,102 Original Cost / Valuation 23,725 - - 2,088,827

(640,900) Accumulated Depreciation (689,252)

1,424,202 Book Value as at 30 June 2014 1,399,575

FIXED ASTRONOMICAL EQUIPMENT

224,950 Original Cost / Valuation 17,182 - - 242,132


37,043 Book Value as at 30 June 2014 41,495

TELESCOPE AND ACCESSORIES

49,105 Original Cost / Valuation - - - 49,105



PLANETARIUM EQUIPMENT

715,282 Original Cost / Valuation 342,380 - - 1,057,662


557 Book Value as at 30 June 2014 288,338

FURNITURE, LIBRARY AND OFFICE EQUIPMENT




PROJECTION/SOUND SYSTEM AND DISPLAY UNITS



24 Book Value as at 30 June 2014 29,579

COMPUTERS AND RESEARCH EQUIPMENT




DISPLAYS/EXHIBITS




UPGRADE PROJECT 2008

2,356,348 Original Cost / Valuation - - - 2,356,348

(1,545,139) Accumulated Depreciation (1,726,572)


6,147,139 Total Cost / Valuation 451,802 - - 6,598,941

(3,765,783) Less Accumulated Depreciation (4,109,311)

2,381,356 Total 451,802 - - 2,489,630

11. PROPERTY PLANT & EQUIPMENT & CAPITAL EXPENDITURE







12. OPERATING LEASE COMMITMENTS

Commitments under non-cancellable operating leases:

2014

Less than 1 year 4,440

Between 1-5 years 12,025

16,465

13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

No material related party transactions took place during the year (2013: nil). The Trustees do not receive

remuneration for services provided.





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