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Stargazing and Astrophotography Retreat
Explore the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve above us from our on-site observatory, and learn how to photograph deep space objects through our telescope. During your stay, enjoy the privacy and space of your own luxury villa.
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Package Details

Our Stargazing and Astrophotography Retreat Package offers the perfect opportunity to explore the world-famous dark skies above Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat.

Choose to stay in a Lakeside Villa with unforgettable view over Lake Pukaki to Aoraki Mount Cook or Moraine Villa, overlooking the magnificent Ben Ohau ranges and the tawny landscape of the Mackenzie Country.

All villas feature luxurious interiors, open fireplaces and private outdoor hot tubs filled by the estate’s fresh artesian water.

Combine these beautiful surrounds with fine dining and an exclusive stargazing and astrophotography experience in our on-site Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory.

Learn more about stargazing at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. →

 

Package Price

Two Night Stay in a TWO Bedroom Villa (for up to 4 people) plus inclusions
Available: All year round
Moraine Villa:  $8300
Lakeview Villa:
– Villa Puaka $ 11560
– Ashley Mackenzie Villa $ 12960

Two Night Stay in a ONE Bedroom Villa (for up to 2 people) plus inclusions
Available: 1 May to 30 September
Moraine Villa:  $6075
Lakeview Villa:
– Villa Puaka $7075
– Ashley Mackenzie Villa $8,475

Package Inclusions

  • Two nights’ accommodation in the luxury villa of your choice.  Each villa has large windows looking out to the views, french doors opening onto the patio, combined with a cozy open fire in the lounge for you to lay back and enjoy
  • On one night of your stay, join us in the Pukaki Observatory for a dark sky experience including stargazing and astrophotography
  • One gourmet lunch per person
  • A bottle of sparkling New Zealand wine on your arrival
  • A multi-course garden to plate meal each night prepared by our chef team
  • Each morning a nourishing breakfast
  • Private outdoor hot tub filled with water drawn from our artesian well
  • On the estate you will have use of the tennis court, petanque, and walking tracks

 

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Terms and Conditions

Payment Policy

A valid credit card is required at the time of booking to secure the booking.

The person making booking must be over 18 years of age.

Unless otherwise stated, a one-night deposit will be charged to your card on booking confirmation.

The balance of your stay is payable on arrival.

We accept payments in New Zealand dollars by MasterCard or Visa, Direct Debit or Cash.

Your credit card payment will be made via WindCave and an invoice / receipt will emailed to the email address you provide.  The WindCave privacy statement can be read here. 

 

Cancellation Policy

As a small lodge with only 4 villas our cancellation policy is rather strict.

Cancellations made up to 30 days prior to arrival will incur a charge of the first night’s accommodation. After that and in the case of a no-show, the total price of the reservation will be charged.

Bookings are non-refundable for any unused nights.

We highly recommend that all guests purchase travel insurance.

 

Child Policy

Children are welcome at the Retreat, please be aware the Retreat is a rural environment with natural tarns and ponds, cliffs and forested areas.

 

Extra beds

Extra beds are available in Moraine Villas at an additional cost per night which includes dinner and breakfast provisions.