sunset view from ashley mackenzie villa

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Magnificent Stays in the Mackenzie Country

NewstalkZB’s Mike Yardley Praises Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

NewstalkZB’s Mike Yardley recently featured his recommendations for magnificant stays and experiences in the legendary Mackenzie Country. Mike praised our own Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat as “the top-shelf option for secluded luxury.”

View the full article here or stream the broadcast below.

Mike says:

“You can expect all the trimmings of a luxury lodge at this retreat, from plush décor and elegant furnishings to inspiring views and the velvety darkness of the Dark Sky Reserve. Another star-turn is the retreat’s purpose-built Pukaki Wine Cellar and Observatory. Guests can enjoy a glass of wine or tot of whisky stepping into the adjoining observatory, equipped with a retractable roof and telescope to gaze in awe of the Southern stars. There’s also a range of on-site wellness treatments at your disposal to rev up the restorative factor to your Mackenzie getaway. It’s the pinnacle of indulgence.”

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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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.

Fine Dining at Moraine Lodge

Fine Dining at Moraine Lodge

Date: Bookings Essential

Time: 7:30pm

We extend a warm welcome to day guests wishing to join us for a 4-course Fine Dining culinary experience at Mt Cook ... More →

Tastes of Nature Cooking Demonstration and Lunch

Tastes of Nature Cooking Demonstration and Lunch

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement

To dine at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is to savour the tastes of nature. Let our private chefs show you how to select, ... More →

Seasonal Photography

Seasonal Photography

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement

An experienced photography guide will take you to the Retreat's most iconic spots and let you capture all of its ... More →

Stargazing at Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory

Stargazing at Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory

Date: Multiple

Time: Summer 9.30pm | Winter 8.30pm

Join us for a unique dark sky experience in the Pukaki Wine Cellar and Observatory. This is a fun, informative and ... More →

Kiwi Christmas Dinner

Kiwi Christmas Dinner

Date: Monday 25 December

Time: 4:00pm - 6:00pm

Celebrate Christmas Day with us and enjoy good food and company. Join us in our luxury Moraine Lodge and indulge in a ... More →

Astrophotography

Astrophotography

Date: By Arrangement

Time: 8pm in Winter | 9pm in Summer

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

Billion Star Dining

Billion Star Dining

Date: By Arrangement

Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm

We created the Pukaki Wine Cellar and Observatory to share the beauty of the Dark Sky Reserve with our guests through ... More →

Gift Voucher

Gift Voucher

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement

Celebrate any occasion with a gift voucher, whether you'd like to treat someone to stay in one of our luxury villas, ... More →