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.

Saving the Night Sky

New Zealand’s Bid to Become the World’s First Dark Sky Nation

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is proud to be part of New Zealand’s bid to become the world’s first dark sky nation.

This excellent article from BBC Travel explores New Zealand’s dark sky journey. Retreat owner Kaye Paardekooper said:

“Dark skies are great for wellbeing – that’s what we tell anyone who’ll listen. Research by the Royal Society [of New Zealand] on the effects of blue light, for example, shows too much blue light at the wrong time of day can disrupt our sleep, our immunity, our hormonal balance and even our mood.

 

We don’t have that light pollution here, which is why it needs preserving. Without the dominance of blue light, it’s much easier to return to your natural circadian rhythms. The kind of sleep you get here, particularly during the long nights of winter, honestly, is second to none.”

Read the full article here.

A wonderful mind and soul retreat with the best view NZ possibly can offer. Best view of all places we stayed in NZ this trip and best meal cooked by Chef Tom. The hosts, Luke and Kaye, are very lovely and attentive to every detail. We did a private stargazing tour and it was marvelous! Luke gave us a tour of the universe. There are lots of activities you can choose from, including tennis, spa, hot tub, sauna, croquet, etc. Best experience of all traveling time.

Ohkas Bangkok, Thailand
Ohkas

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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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.

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 →

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 →

Astrophotography

Astrophotography

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

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 →