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.

In the Lap of Luxury

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat Featured Among NZ’s Finest Luxury Properties

We are so pleased to be featured as one of New Zealand’s finest luxury properties on TVNZ’s Lap of Luxury travel programme.

On May 17, 2022, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat opens its doors to the world and gives Lap of Luxury viewers an exclusive tour of our 66-hectare high country estate, nestled on ancient glacial moraine between the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and the majestic Ben Ohau ranges.

Watch the programme for a behind-the-scenes tour of our elegant private luxury villas complete with outdoor spa pools, private chef service and on-site recreation, stargazing, relaxation and wellness treatments, all on the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.

“We have carefully designed the estate to ensure exclusivity and privacy for our guests and to provide a range of passive recreational experiences such as cooking demonstrations, trail walking, tennis or stargazing,” owner Kaye Paardekooper said. “Most passers-by would only glimpse the front gate and not realise the expanse of the Retreat, both the size of the estate and its views over the wide open skies and big landscapes of the Mackenzie.”

“We love showcasing everything on offer at the Retreat, and we’re so pleased Lap of Luxury has given us this opportunity to share our property with their viewers.”

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat was featured on Season 2, Episode 7 of Lap of Luxury. It aired on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at 8pm on TVNZ One.

 

From the moment I booked the villa to the time we departed, everything was perfect. Kaye made recommendations for tours and quickly accommodated us when our party grew from 2 to 4. The 2 bedrooms are both the same size, so there is no fighting over who gets the bigger room! Food was abundant and absolutely fresh and delicious throughout the entire stay. We picked out our wine from the wine cellar upon arrival and, the next night, Luke brought up a variety of bottles for us to choose from for dinner that night. We had an absolutely clear sky for stargazing in the observatory, and saw some brilliant stars, along with Saturn. Anna made sure that we had every supplement we needed, including picnic lunch and massages in the private spa. Also, the fireplace was set up to ensure that even fire dummies could get a flame going. We were in absolute heaven, and can honestly say this was the best part of our trip!

Katie S. 
Katie S.

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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The Region  →

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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.