stargazing at mt cook lakeside retreat

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To the Lake House

Sharing a Dream with Guests from Around the World

We’re pleased to be featured in this wonderful article from MiNDFOOD magazine:

Just a few years ago, it was a dream. Now Luke and Kaye Paardekooper are sharing their dream come true with guests from around the world.

 

At Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, they have created a luxurious and secluded place where travellers can relax and rejuvenate in one of the most beautiful and peaceful locations in New Zealand.

 

Set in a forest wilderness overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, the retreat is on the doorstep of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park in the beautiful and unique Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area.

 

From their rooms, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views up the lake to the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook. The night sky is just as spectacular: the retreat is inside the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. 

Read the full article here.

We were welcome and catered for by very genuine people. Amazing food delivered right into your own living room, both breakfast and dinner. incredible views to the mountains from own front deck with a hot tub just for you. Board game, and many other small entertainment options are placed in the houses to keep you excited and detect new things. even marshmallows would be provided for if you want to cook them over the wood fireplace. after a great dinner we never had space for that, but you see this is just one small attentive element the y thought of to make your stay pleasant and memorable. Do absolutely take advantage of seeing the starts through the on-site telescope by attending a stargazing session.
A and B New Zealand
A and B

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  →

Contact

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 →

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 →

Astrophotography

Astrophotography

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

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →