Dusk to Dark Stargazing

Join us for an awe-inspiring Dusk to Dark experience. Admire the surrounding vistas in twilight followed by stargazing in the Pukaki Observatory.

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Embark on an unforgettable journey that begins with the enchanting beauty of twilight.

Watch in awe as the sun sets behind the majestic Southern Alps during our Dusk to Dark tour. Join us on the Lavender Lawn at the magical twilight hour and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vistas of Aoraki/Mount Cook, creating the perfect setting for capturing breathtaking photos. As the night sky unfolds and darkness descends, step into the captivating world of the Pukaki Observatory at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you’ll be greeted with a glass of wine or a tot of whisky to set the mood. Our expert astronomer will then lead you on a celestial exploration using a high-powered laser pointer and a pier-mounted telescope. Dive into the mysteries of constellations and their mythologies, stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets, the Moon and more, while also enjoying real-time views of cosmic marvels on a large screen through a camera attached to a telescope.

Whether you’re new to stargazing, or a seasoned stargazer, our guided tour guarantees an unforgettable journey under one of the world’s darkest and clearest skies. This stellar experience provides a rare chance to stargaze in the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

Join our shared group session (minimum of two guests) or opt for a private group booking for a more personalised experience. The Dusk to Dark tour operates every day however please note this is weather-dependent. We’ll keep you informed if any changes arise.

Get ready to embark on a celestial journey like no other!

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What’s On

Our upcoming events are featured below. Purchase your tickets to reserve your place, and feel free to contact us with any questions. And check back for more new events to be released throughout the year.

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Join us for an awe-inspiring Dusk to Dark experience. Admire the surrounding vistas in twilight followed by stargazing in the Pukaki Observatory.

Royal High Tea

Indulge in timeless elegance at Moraine Lodge. Immerse yourself in a world of exquisite pastries and delicious tea, served in a luxury setting with beautiful views. This experience includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.

Gift Voucher

Celebrate any occasion with a gift voucher, whether you'd like to treat someone to stay in one of our luxury villas, fine dine in our Moraine Lodge, or spend a night under the stars in our Pukaki Wine Cellar and Observatory it's up to you.

Landscape Photography Session

An experienced photography guide will take you to the Retreat's most iconic spots and let you capture all of its beauty. Whether you have experience or are new to photography we would love to show you or teach you how to capture the beauty of the ever-changing Mackenzie landscape.

Billion Star Dining

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Moraine Lodge, and then explore the stars from our private Pukaki Observatory.

Astrophotography

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in our Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory. Not only will you witness and experience the Aoraki International Dark Sky Reserve, you will also be able to capture it with astrophotography. Enjoy several hours with an experienced astrophotographer who will help you take amazing photos of the dark sky.

Chef’s Tasting Menu

We extend a warm welcome to day guests wishing to join us for a 6-course Fine Dining culinary experience at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. This is a culinary journey inspired by the breath-taking beauty of the Mackenzie Region, Te Manahuna. Our multi-course, seasonal tasting menu is designed to showcase local produce and delicious flavours.

Dark Sky Stargazing

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in the Pukaki Observatory. This is a fun, informative and unique experience where you will explore the universe in a small group setting.

Plan Your Celebration

If you’re searching for the perfect setting for your own celebration or special event, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat will exceed your expectations in every way. To make your experience even more special, stay at the Retreat in our private luxury villas.

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An exceptional experience. My husband and I have been lucky enough to stay in some really beautiful places on our travels but nothing quite matches this. We honestly could not fault one aspect of it. From the incredibly lovely apartment, to the majestic view, to the incredible bathroom, to the view through the french doors from the bed, to the outdoor sitting area – enjoying all the lovely drinks and welcome fruit and cake that were on offer – watching their ducks and sheep as the sun set over the mountains. The meals were something else. All delivered to your private apartment and straight onto your (already set) table. The food was first class. Every mouthful amazing. The fridge was full of lovely drink options and there was even complementary gin and whiskey (and mixers) and a bottle of bubbly. My husband and I even used the hot tub which, on a cold night, was an incredible experience. We also went for a lovely long walk through their extensive grounds. They did have a fire a few years ago but there is much to see and you are surrounded by nature. Everyone should have something so lovely to enjoy, even if its for one night. Truly exceptional.

Lucinda-A Campsie, Australia

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