We have a podcast! Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is pleased to present our four-part podcast. It’s the story of where we began, and how our Retreat has grown and evolved. Available on all major podcast listening apps, or stream it directly from our website.

Special Occasions

Your Event at the Retreat

The Retreat has a beautiful selection of venue options, both indoor and outdoor, for your special occasion. From an intimate gathering to a large celebration, let us help you create a perfect memory with family and friends.

We have wonderful facilities for unforgettable birthday and anniversary celebrations, reunions, and friends and family dinners. We can also welcome travel groups and coach tours for private, bespoke lunches and dinners.

All events can include outdoor games, declicous food and celebratory cakes created by our expert culinary team, an exclusive stargazing experience in our on-site observatory, and more.

Moraine Lodge

Moraine Lodge, our signature event space, was created to host elegant gatherings. Its high ceilings, delicate chandelier and large open fireplace create a warm and luxurious atmosphere. Large doors open onto a picturesque veranda, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow and amplifying the spaciousness of the Lodge. Its facilities include a commercial kitchen for our expert culinary team to cater events with exquisite cuisine. The Lodge is perfect for grand banquets for up to 100 seated guests, or more informal settings for larger groups.

Outdoor Locations

The Retreat features two large, grassy wedding lawns, one above our tennis court (the Lavender Lawn) and one overlooking Lake Pukaki below our Memorial Garden (the Lakeside Lawn). Both lawns have views over Lake Pukaki towards Aoraki Mount Cook, and are lovely green spaces for an outdoor function.

We are able to set up tents and marquees at various locations on the estate for your outdoor celebration.

My partner surprised me with a trip to the Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat over New Years. We arrived and the staff we welcoming and helpful. I was blown away when we were shown to the Ashley MacKenzie Lodge. It was absolutely beautiful! We could see Lake Pukaki and Mt Cook from our front window and even better from the garden. We had three course meals delivered every day and they were so delicious. They were all in on a big secret when we went to “go see the lavender fields” and ended up on a helicopter ride and we got engaged! When we got back there were bubbles galore and snacks and they had snuck our closest friends in as a surprise. Couldn’t have asked for better hospitality. The bed was ridiculously comfortable and the bathroom and shower were amazing. Had a bunch of saunas and spas while staying. It was so private and lush. Thanks so much to the team for making our engagement so memorable. We will never forget our stay!
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Upcoming Events at the Retreat

what’s on

We are continually innovating to bring you fresh, exciting experiences with our special events at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. Purchase your tickets or reserve your spot on our website, and feel free to contact us with any questions.

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. More →

Astrophotography

Astrophotography

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in our Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory. Not only will you witness and ... More →

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 ... More →

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 ... More →

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 ... More →

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 ... More →

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, ... More →

Royal High Tea

Royal High Tea

Indulge in timeless elegance at Moraine Lodge. Immerse yourself in a world of exquisite pastries and delicious tea, ... More →