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.

EVENT DETAILS

Join our resident photographer and learn how to capture breathtaking images of the area around Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat and the Mackenzie Region. The area is home to a variety of exhilarating scenery with the vibrant blue waters of Lake Pukaki and the imposing, snow-capped peaks of Aoraki Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. Our photographer will show how to manipulate your settings in order to maximise the effect and impact of your photo as well as introducing you to various techniques that can be employed to bring your photo to life.

Examples of techniques covered:

  • Different depths of field
  • Motion blur
  • Using natural frames
  • Incorporating leading lines
  • Bracketing and HDR images
  • Stitching panoramas

Learn how to use light to your advantage, create classic and thought-provoking compositions and incorporate textures into your shots. At the end of your experience, you will be shown how to augment your image through post processing and discover some hints and tips to really make your image pop.

You will need to bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a lens. A tripod is helpful but not essential. Wear suitable and comfortable footwear and clothing for walking.


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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.

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

At the Retreat  →

Weddings

At The Retreat  →

Stay

In Our Villas  →

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.