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Enjoy Our Podcast Series

The Story of The Retreat, Now On Your Favourite Audio Platform

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is pleased to debut our new podcast series!

This four-episode series shares the story of Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat from its beginnings as a wild, undeveloped property, through its transformation into an elegant estate offering luxury accommodation, fine cuisine, health and wellness, and more.

Your hosts, Kaye and Luke Paardekooper, share their personal journey to the Retreat, as well as the experiences of guests they’ve hosted over the years. Enjoy stories of the amazing history, natural features, activities, and people that have made Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat the truly remarkable place it is today.

Listen Now

Stream our podcast in your favourite listening app by searching “Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat” or use the links below.

Spotify

Apple Podcasts

Episode 1: Journeys

This episode is the story of a journey.

It’s the journey of the natural forces that shaped an extraordinary landscape within New Zealand. It’s the journey of the couple whose vision and drive built a place of luxury in the wilderness near Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. It’s also the journey of the travellers that come to this place to rest, reconnect, explore the region, or indulge in the quiet and choose to simply be.

Haere mai – welcome – on the journey to Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat.

Episode 2: Exploration

In this episode, discover some of the amazing experiences available at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, New Zealand.

We begin with stargazing in a private observatory in the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

We also explore glaciers, hiking trails, helicopter flights, kayaking, boating, fishing, cycling and more. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, the Mackenzie Region and the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail are on the Retreat’s doorstep.

Episode 3: Nourishment

This episode is about nourishment. Nourishment of the body, through pure water, and good food. But also, nourishment of the mind, and spirit.

Join us as we explore the nourishment offered to guests of Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat through fine cuisine and wellness therapies, all inspired by the pristine natural environment surrounding the estate.

Episode 4: Gatherings

This episode is the story of Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat as a gathering place.

We share how the owners’ vision has evolved, and expanded, over the years, and the many ways they welcome people to come together and enjoy time in this beautiful part of New Zealand – from weddings and celebrations to peaceful, private escapes.

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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