relaxing in the private fantail spa tub

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.

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New Zealand’s Best Retreats: Where the menu is as important as the mantra

This excellent article from Cuisine Magazine lists Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat as one of New Zealand’s finest luxury retreats.

“…there’s a lot more than mountain views to nourish you at this restorative destination. All three villas have luxurious European-inspired interiors, open fireplaces and private outdoor hot tubs. There are massages and yoga and the icing on the cake is the on-site observatory. This area is part of The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and guests can enjoy the beauty of a resplendent sky teeming with star radiance, minus the pollution of street lights or industry.

 

The food here isn’t plant-based cuisine and juices, it’s more about nourishing yourself by celebrating the bounty that is all around – high-country lamb farmed locally, salmon from nearby lakes and rivers, vegetables from the garden – everything made with love by new head chef Paul Bryan and delivered to your room. There are cooking demonstrations available, too.”

Read the full article here.

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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Planning Your Stay

Explore our luxury accommodation and other offerings, learn more about the Aoraki Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Mackenzie region of New Zealand, or contact us with any questions – we’re always happy to help.

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Our Accommodation  →

About

The Region  →

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Our Team  →

Upcoming Events at the Retreat

Upcoming Events at the Retreat

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.

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →