relaxing in the private fantail spa tub

Saving the Night Sky

New Zealand’s Bid to Become the World’s First Dark Sky Nation

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is proud to be part of New Zealand’s bid to become the world’s first dark sky nation.

This excellent article from BBC Travel explores New Zealand’s dark sky journey. Retreat owner Kaye Paardekooper said:

“Dark skies are great for wellbeing – that’s what we tell anyone who’ll listen. Research by the Royal Society [of New Zealand] on the effects of blue light, for example, shows too much blue light at the wrong time of day can disrupt our sleep, our immunity, our hormonal balance and even our mood.

 

We don’t have that light pollution here, which is why it needs preserving. Without the dominance of blue light, it’s much easier to return to your natural circadian rhythms. The kind of sleep you get here, particularly during the long nights of winter, honestly, is second to none.”

Read the full article here.

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. 
Martin W.

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.

View

Our Accommodation  →

About

The Region  →

Contact

Our Team  →

View

Our Accommodation  →

About

The Region  →

Contact

Our Team  →

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.

Billion Star Dining

Billion Star Dining

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement

Trust the Chef Dinner Reservation

Trust the Chef Dinner Reservation

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement

Matariki 9 Course Degustation Dinner

Matariki 9 Course Degustation Dinner

Date: 15 July 2023

Time: 6.30pm - 10pm

Matariki Dawn Celebration and Breakfast

Matariki Dawn Celebration and Breakfast

Date: Friday 14 July 2023

Time: 6am - 8.30am

Tastes of Nature Cooking Demonstration and Lunch

Tastes of Nature Cooking Demonstration and Lunch

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement

Mothers Day High Tea at Moraine Lodge

Mothers Day High Tea at Moraine Lodge

Date: Sunday 14 May 2023

Time: 11am - 1pm

Stargazing at Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory

Stargazing at Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory

Date: By Arrangement

Time: By Arrangement