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.

Utterly Memorable
Treat yourself to two nights in this fabulous retreat overlooking the beautiful azure waters of Lake Pukaki. We stayed in the Moraine Villas overlooking the tawny landscape of the Mackenzie country and beyond to the Ben Ohau Range. We were met by lodge manager Anna and shown to our villa to unwind and relax. It was so spacious with a stunning one way window from the shower looking out to the countryside. And even better, there’s a delicious spa pool filled with artesian water, and just the most relaxing place to dip into, maybe with a glass of bubbles which, by the way, is complimentary. So much is included from the nibbles platter, the bubbly, a 2 course dinner and breakfast provisions. A decanter of scotch and gin. …..everything is here. You can trek over the property to the tennis court and view beautiful Lake Pukaki and beyond to Aoraki Mt Cook. If you want this view next time you stay then choose the Ashley Mackenzie Villa. We plan to go back soo to relax and rejuvenate as the Ashley Mackenzie Villa comes with its own private sauna, massage room, small gym and a fabulous wooden hot tub overlooking the lake. And then there is the star gazing. This retreat has its own private observatory – we booked for a stargazing experience and were wowed at the stunning galaxies. You’re right in the heart of the Aoraki International Dark Skies reserve here. No light pollution
Susan R Wellington, New Zealand
Susan R

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →