Astrophotography

Astrophotography

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in our Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory. Not only will you witness and experience the Aoraki International Dark Sky Reserve, you will also be able to capture it with astrophotography. Enjoy several hours with an experienced astrophotographer who will help you take amazing photos of the dark sky.

Learn how to use your DSLR or Mirrorless camera to take incredible wide field nightscapes in a ‘gold tier’ Dark Sky Reserve. Starting at the Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory you will meet with our experienced astrophotographer who will talk you through some of the best settings and discuss various techniques before venturing out with you to assist you in capturing unbelievable Milky Way and night scape vistas. The evening will finish with a brief post processing tutorial to show you how to get the best images from your equipment.

This activity is open to all skill levels whether you are a beginner photographer or an expert. We would love to introduce you to one of the darkest, clearest skies in the world. This stellar opportunity to capture the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with an expert astrophotographer guiding you will be an unforgettable experience.

Includes: A hot beverage. An experienced astrophotographer guided session for approximately 3 hours. Please note you may be placed in a group with other guests.

It is advisable to avoid bright moon phases to maximise the dark skies for astrophotography.

Please contact us for large group bookings reservations@mtcookretreat.nz

Recommended Equipment

DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
Lens wider than 50mm
Tripod
Head Torch with Red Light
Remote Trigger (not essential)

Onsite accommodation is available in conjunction with this experience. To book one of our luxury villas click here

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What’s On

Our upcoming events are featured below. Purchase your tickets to reserve your place, and feel free to contact us with any questions. And check back for more new events to be released throughout the year.

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Dusk to Dark Stargazing

Join us for an awe-inspiring Dusk to Dark experience. Admire the surrounding vistas in twilight followed by stargazing in the Pukaki Observatory.

Royal High Tea

Indulge in timeless elegance at Moraine Lodge. Immerse yourself in a world of exquisite pastries and delicious tea, served in a luxury setting with beautiful views. This experience includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.

Gift Voucher

Celebrate any occasion with a gift voucher, whether you'd like to treat someone to stay in one of our luxury villas, fine dine in our Moraine Lodge, or spend a night under the stars in our Pukaki Wine Cellar and Observatory it's up to you.

Landscape Photography Session

An experienced photography guide will take you to the Retreat's most iconic spots and let you capture all of its beauty. Whether you have experience or are new to photography we would love to show you or teach you how to capture the beauty of the ever-changing Mackenzie landscape.

Billion Star Dining

Indulge in a fine dining experience at Moraine Lodge, and then explore the stars from our private Pukaki Observatory.

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in our Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory. Not only will you witness and experience the Aoraki International Dark Sky Reserve, you will also be able to capture it with astrophotography. Enjoy several hours with an experienced astrophotographer who will help you take amazing photos of the dark sky.

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 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.

Dark Sky Stargazing

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in the Pukaki Observatory. This is a fun, informative and unique experience where you will explore the universe in a small group setting.

Plan Your Celebration

If you’re searching for the perfect setting for your own celebration or special event, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat will exceed your expectations in every way. To make your experience even more special, stay at the Retreat in our private luxury villas.

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Everything was superb. We stayed for 3 nights and also had our wedding there….The location is breathtaking. Whether your villa looks out over the lake or the Mackenzie Basin, you will not be disappointed with the spectacular views….Outdoor hot tubs also with outrageous views! The food was outrageously good – breakfast was tasty and filling, but the evening meals took my breath away. All freshly prepared and locally sourced….Luke and Kaye have made such a fantastic place, and are very hands on, Anna organised everything for us and made sure our wedding – and the rest of our stay – went smoothly. Nothing was too much trouble. The other staff were friendly and helpful without being intrusive, and Tom is a very gifted chef who is also very friendly and happy to chat about the food, but also to accommodate any special needs or requests. Our children have a cows milk protein allergy, but were still able to eat like royalty. Finally, try the stargazing in the wine cellar. Unbelievable.

Martin W.

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