Royal Astronomical Society of New ZealandGeneral InformationThe object of the Society is the promotion and extension of knowledge of astronomy and related branches of science. It encourages interest in Astronomy, and is an association of observers and others for mutual help and advancement of science. It was founded in 1920 as the New Zealand Astronomical Society and assumed its present title on receiving the Royal Charter in 1946. In 1967 it became a Member Body of the Royal Society of New Zealand. MembershipMembership of the Society is open to all interested in astronomy. The RASNZ has about 180 individual members, including both professional and amateur astronomers. Many of the astronomical research and observing programmes carried out in this country involve collaboration between professional and amateur observers in New Zealand and elsewhere. In addition the society has a number of special interest groups or sections which cater for people who have interests in particular areas of astronomy. There are also a number of local societies which are affiliated to the RASNZ but generally cater for local amateur astronomers.