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.

DETAILS

Billion Star Dining is a unique and luxurious experience. It commences with fine dining at Moraine Lodge 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.

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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.

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

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.

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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Amazing location, excellent food and service, great interior and high standard of rooms

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

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