High Country Heli Hike
Embark on a scenic flight over the majestic Southern Alps, marvel at stunning vistas, and explore a High Country historical trail. Venture off the beaten path in the Aoraki Mount Cook region, away from typical tourist routes. Join the guided tour for a unique opportunity to access private land on the renowned Glentanner Station, a historic and iconic family-owned estate nestled in one of New Zealand's most breathtaking landscapes.

EVENT DETAILS

The tour begins with an exhilarating helicopter flight to a high point on Glentanner Station. Take in dramatic views of Lake Pukaki, the Tasman River Delta and Aoraki Mount Cook, towering over the landscape in the distance.

From the landing spot the tour continues on foot with an easy walk over a rugged farm track. The track descends gradually past alpine tarns, beneath towering peaks. Your guide will ensure plenty of stops for photographs and will share stories of the station’s history, geological features, flora and fauna and present-day operations.

The walk features a stop at the recently restored Field Station huts — the perfect place for a morning or afternoon tea break, kindly provided by your hosts. The exhibition at the Field Station features stories of early scientific and farming endeavours on Glentanner and the inter-relationship between farmer and scientist.  The walking distance is approximately seven kilometres and guests must be comfortable on uneven ground.

A reasonable level of mobility is required for the walking tour but a return flight from the landing site can be arranged for guests who do not wish to walk.

*Unfortunately we are not able to cater to specialized dietary requirements. If you are on a restricted diet please bring your own snacks.

Please note this is a guest exclusive experience. Please arrive at the Glentanner Park Centre 30 minutes before departure time.

To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

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.

Dusk to Dark Stargazing

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.

Royal High Tea

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

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

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

Billion Star Dining

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

Astrophotography

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

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

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.

Your Event at the Retreat

Weddings at the Retreat

Stay in our Villas

Your Event

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Weddings

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There are not enough superlatives in the dictionary to describe this experience….This gem is tucked away off the beaten track, but within close proximity to all of the highlights of the region. Sunsets and sunrise on the patio or from your room are stunning. Pair this magnificent location with the most beautiful of accommodation….The Retreat is impeccably decorated yet is inviting and comfortable. Third, add a dash of the most amazing hosts you could imagine. Such kind and lovely people. You are welcomed as an old friend would be. Fourth, in the evening take a look up to the sky and just try to turn away. Highly likely you have never seen a night sky like this before. The constellations and enormity of the cosmos are on full display at this dark sky sanctuary. Make sure to book the observatory viewing…beyond spectacular.

Chris S. Dallas, Texas
Chris S.