Join our experienced guide for a gentle walk around our 70-hectare estate. Meander through towering pine forests and soak up stunning views of Lake Pukaki. Learn more about the area’s rich geological and cultural history, while also exploring some of the local flora and fauna. Your walk will culminate with a private picnic lunch created by our award-winning chef team.

Your walk will start at the front of The Moraine, where you will meet your private guide and gain a better understanding of both the area you are staying in, and how Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat developed into what you see today. We will then head into the cool pine forest, where you might be lucky enough to spot a beautiful Fantail (or Piwakawaka) hawking for insects, the striking NZ Falcon (Kārearea) or one of the 78 species of skink found in New Zealand, with new species still being discovered. Gain insight into the immense natural forces that have shaped our landscape and revel in the beauty of The Mackenzie Basin region. While there are a couple of inclines on the property, this is just a light stroll or “gentle tramping” as it might be called here in New Zealand.

To end your walk, you will be guided to secluded spot where you can take your time enjoying a private picnic lunch while embracing the peace and tranquillity of nature. When you are finished you can make your own way back to your villa whenever you feel ready, taking time to appreciate the newly discovered sights and sounds along the way.

The walk will be approximately 60-90mins. Please bring water and wear closed shoes, appropriate clothing, sunscreen and hats on warm days. A pair of binoculars would be highly beneficial.

Please note this is a guest exclusive experience. To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

In Japanese culture, Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing is practiced for relaxation and well-being. The Retreat has a Shinrin-yoku track which wanders through the earthy smells of the forest, passing a glacial mullein (mill), a remnant of the glaciers retreat from end of Lake Pukaki in 20,000 BC (approximately).

Take time to walk silently, slowly and gently. Look up and experience the forest though all your senses.

Our Shinrin-yoku track is available to all guests of the Retreat to enjoy at their leisure. Bookings are not required for this activity. Take time to explore the Estate and other glacial remnants on our 66ha property.

Spend a quiet evening at the Retreat over a relaxed game of tennis with a chilled beverage and nibbles platter. The Mackenzie has a long sunset in Summer with the muted colours of dusk slowly emerging. Enjoy the expansive views over Lake Pukaki whilst relaxing in the comfort of your Adirondack chair.

The tennis court is an ITF regulation sized astroturf court and is available for free use by guests of the Retreat. Tennis racquets and balls are provided. Bookings are not essential.

We are happy to help book other experiences during your stay at the Retreat. Feel free to contact us with any questions, or to make your activity arrangements.

The Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat Estate covers 66 hectares of undulating and ancient glacial moraine in the heart of the Mackenzie Region. We have 5kms + of gentle walking tracks on the Estate linking our facilities and taking you close to our resident goats, ducks and fallow deer. Collect a walking map from your villa and explore the tarns, restful lawns, meditation garden and spectacular views over Lake Pukaki.

We are happy to help book other experiences during your stay at the Retreat. Feel free to contact us with any questions, or to make your activity arrangements.

Embark on a scenic flight over the majestic Southern Alps, marvel at stunning vistas, and explore a High Country historical trail. Venture off the beaten path in the Aoraki Mount Cook region, away from typical tourist routes. Join the guided tour for a unique opportunity to access private land on the renowned Glentanner Station, a historic and iconic family-owned estate nestled in one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes.

The tour begins with an exhilarating helicopter flight to a high point on Glentanner Station. Take in dramatic views of Lake Pukaki, the Tasman River Delta and Aoraki Mount Cook, towering over the landscape in the distance.

From the landing spot the tour continues on foot with an easy walk over a rugged farm track. The track descends gradually past alpine tarns, beneath towering peaks. Your guide will ensure plenty of stops for photographs and will share stories of the station’s history, geological features, flora and fauna and present-day operations.

The walk features a stop at the recently restored Field Station huts — the perfect place for a morning or afternoon tea break, kindly provided by your hosts. The exhibition at the Field Station features stories of early scientific and farming endeavours on Glentanner and the inter-relationship between farmer and scientist. The walking distance is approximately seven kilometres and guests must be comfortable on uneven ground.

A reasonable level of mobility is required for the walking tour but a return flight from the landing site can be arranged for guests who do not wish to walk.

*Unfortunately we are not able to cater to specialized dietary requirements. If you are on a restricted diet please bring your own snacks.

Please note this is a guest exclusive experience. Please arrive at the Glentanner Park Centre 30 minutes before departure time.

To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

A heli picnic in the Aoraki Mount Cook region is the ultimate way to experience gourmet dining.

Departing right from Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat’s heli pad, you will be picked up by private helicopter and whisked away to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. The flight includes a scenic tour, with the option for a mountain or glacier landing for spectacular photographs. Your exclusive picnic spot features extraordinary panoramic views, and the meal features fine cuisine prepared by the Retreat’s own private chef. This is the ultimate romantic, exclusive and exciting outdoor dining experience.

Step away from the hectic pace of life and take time to revive your body, mind and spirit.

Take some time to relax during your stay and reconnect with your mind, body and spirit. We offer two yoga experiences:

One hour restorative yoga session for 2 people at your villa, if staying in the Ashley Mackenzie Villa this can take place in the workout room.

Extended restorative practice for 2 people which includes yoga, a walk on the Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) track, and a light lunch.

Please note this is a guest exclusive experience. To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

Enjoy a day outdoors experiencing all the Mackenzie has to offer. Meet the fishing guide at The Moraine, and be transported to local fishing spots with the guide.

Take some time to experience the best Mackenzie fishing spots when staying with us. Book a one – four hour fly fishing experience, get transported to local fishing spots with a local guide and enjoy a day in the outdoors.

Please note this is a guest exclusive experience and the Retreat is not licenced to store or cook any fish caught during this experience. We recommend catch and release. To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

Enjoy an Alps to Ocean premier cycling experience.

Experience a one day journey through the Mackenzie / Waitaki region where you will cycle and be driven to ride a select part of the A20 cycle track. Enjoy a packed lunch provided by our chef team with a thermos.

Please note, this is an unguided experience and is guest exclusive. To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

Take some time to relax and unwind when staying with us. Book a one hour relaxation massage in your villa at a time that suits you. If staying in the Ashley Mackenzie Villa this will take place in the massage room.

Please note this is a guest exclusive experience. To book or add on to your stay email us at reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

Billion Star Dining is a unique and luxurious experience. It commences with fine dining at The Moraine that utilises fresh and innovative cuisine.

This is followed by a fun and informative stargazing experience with one of our astronomers at the Pukaki Observatory. The purpose-built observatory and adjoining wine cellar began from the concept of an underground space. Its thick concrete walls maintain the cool temperature needed to cellar our wines, and the sitting area in the cellar allows us to share a welcome drink with you while we introduce the Southern sky and the spectacular stargazing experience to come.

The observatory itself features a retractable roof and 9-inch reflector telescope. When the roof recedes, the observatory walls frame a breathtaking window to the stars. Our telescope can sight the rings of Saturn and bands of Jupiter, as well as sparkling star clusters, nebula and planets. On special nights you may also get a glimpse of the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis.

Minimum charge – two people. Stargazing is weather dependent.
Stitching panoramas
Learn how to use light to your advantage, create classic and thought-provoking compositions and incorporate textures into your shots. At the end of your experience, you will be shown how to augment your image through post processing and discover some hints and tips to really make your image pop.

You will need to bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a lens. A tripod is helpful but not essential. Wear suitable and comfortable footwear and clothing for walking.

Join us in the Pukaki Observatory for a unique dark sky experience under the glittering stars of the southern hemisphere. Enjoy a welcome drink in the wine cellar before our experienced astronomer takes you on a tour of the night sky with a high-powered laser pointer and our pier-mounted telescope. Learn more about the constellations and their mythologies, stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets, the Moon and more. We will also attach a camera to the back of the telescope to show you incredible views of some of the wonders of the cosmos on a big screen.

The Pukaki Observatory is perfectly located to explore one of the darkest, clearest skies in the world. This is a stellar experience and a unique opportunity to stargaze in the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

The experience includes a welcome glass of wine or tot of whisky. It is a shared group session, with a minimum charge of two guests to operate this experience.

Please note, this experience is weather dependent.

Private group bookings are also available, please contact experiences@mtcookretreat.nz to enquire.

Embark on an unforgettable journey that begins with the enchanting beauty of twilight.

Watch in awe as the sun sets behind the majestic Southern Alps during our Dusk to Dark tour. Join us on the Lavender Lawn at the magical twilight hour and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring vistas of Aoraki/Mount Cook, creating the perfect setting for capturing breathtaking photos. As the night sky unfolds and darkness descends, step into the captivating world of the Pukaki Observatory at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you’ll be greeted with a glass of wine or a tot of whisky to set the mood. Our expert astronomer will then lead you on a celestial exploration using a high-powered laser pointer and a pier-mounted telescope. Dive into the mysteries of constellations and their mythologies, stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets, the Moon and more, while also enjoying real-time views of cosmic marvels on a large screen through a camera attached to a telescope.

We extend a warm welcome to day guests wishing to join us for a 6-course Fine Dining culinary experience at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. This is a culinary journey inspired by the breath-taking beauty of the Mackenzie Region, Te Manahuna. Our multi-course, seasonal tasting menu is designed to showcase local produce and delicious flavours.

The Moraine is the Mackenzie Region’s #1 Fine Dining establishment, offering a multi-course, seasonal tasting menu, designed to showcase the flavours of the Mackenzie, using local produce and representing our garden to plate philosophy. As we want to keep the menu a surprise for our guests, we won’t reveal too much about what each course entails. However, we can promise you a gastronomic adventure that captures the essence of the Mackenzie.

Please advise us on any dietary requirements when booking, this menu is subject to availability. Diners are seated at elegant sharing-style tables in the grand setting of The Moraine. Enjoy sumptuous cuisine as well as engaging conversation with fellow guests and world travellers.

Please note, for party size less than 6 people you may be seated at a sharing table with another group.

The The Live the life of a royal by making The Moraine your own.

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of our Royal High Tea, envisioned by our Culinary Director, Corey Hume, and complemented with the expert execution of delicious bites by our Pastry Chef, Jennie. A low or no sugar approach to patisserie showcases the produce grown on-site and local delicacies, allowing the full flavour of our products to shine.

This unique offering is served on a luxurious three-tier stand designed for two to share. Delight in a symphony of flavours, from the exquisite Strawberry creation with Valrhona Strawberry chocolate to the decadent cherry delicacy and the tantalizing ‘inverted’ lemon meringue pie, providing a delightful balance of sweet and sour. Smoked Longfin Eel and beef carpaccio tartlets add a savoury touch, while the whipped goat cheese with honey and edible flowers provide a whimsical twist. The symphony of flavours is accompanied by warm scones, homemade raspberry jam and whipped mascarpone. Each person will receive a complimentary glass of New Zealand sparkling wine and choice of tea or coffee classics.