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Stargazing
Pukaki Observatory offers boutique, private stargazing experiences within the world-renowned Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, providing exceptional access to some of the darkest and clearest night skies on earth.
Billion Star Dining
Treat yourself to the Chef’s Tasting Menu followed by a stargazing experience at Pukaki Observatory.
Dusk to Dark Stargazing
Watch the sunset over Aoraki Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki, then watch the stars light up the sky.
Dark Sky Stargazing
An exceptional night tour of the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Billion
Star Dining
Treat yourself to the Chef’s Tasting Menu followed by a stargazing experience at Pukaki Observatory.
Dusk to Dark
Stargazing
Watch the sunset over Aoraki Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki, then watch the stars light up the sky.
Dark Sky
Stargazing
An exceptional night tour of the world-famous Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Join our experienced astronomers as they bring the night sky to life in an engaging and informative manner.
Stargazing at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat offers a rare opportunity to experience some of the clearest and darkest skies in the world, set within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Located at the heart of this internationally recognised reserve, the retreat provides outstanding access to night skies with minimal light pollution and exceptional visibility. The region is renowned for its deep darkness and clarity, revealing dense star fields, planets, and distant galaxies in remarkable detail. As light pollution continues to increase in urban and suburban areas worldwide, this level of natural darkness has become increasingly rare.
The Pukaki Observatory is positioned in a secluded rural setting, making it one of the darkest locations within the reserve. This exceptional environment ensures consistently high-quality viewing conditions and a truly immersive stargazing experience in one of New Zealand’s most pristine night-sky regions.
Please note: Dark Sky Stargazing is suitable for adults and children over 12 years. Please get in touch with our team if you wish to discuss an alternative. Contact: reservations@mtcookretreat.nz
Pukaki Observatory
At Pukaki Observatory, we offer a refined and intimate setting where guests can experience the extraordinary night skies of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. The observatory is conveniently situated approximately 30 minutes from Lake Tekapo, 40 minutes from Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and just 10 minutes from Twizel.
Each dark sky experience includes some time in our underground wine cellar. Purpose-built with thick concrete walls, the space maintains ideal conditions for cellaring a curated selection of wines from leading New Zealand wineries. Our collection also includes fine whiskies, reflecting the region’s Scottish heritage. In this relaxed setting, guests are introduced to the Dark Sky Reserve and the distinctive features of the Southern Hemisphere night sky while enjoying a glass of wine or a tot of whisky.
The observatory features a retractable roof and a high-quality 9-inch reflector telescope, providing clear, detailed views of planets, star clusters, nebulae, and distant galaxies. Guests can observe highlights such as Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud bands, and prominent deep-sky objects.
Private stargazing experiences are available as an exclusive add-on for guests staying at the Retreat and as a standalone experience for visitors. The observatory is also an exceptional setting for special occasions, celebrations, and private events, offering a memorable way to connect with each other in one of the world’s finest dark sky environments. Contact reservations@mtcookretreat.nz to explore this option.
All stargazing experiences include:
· Laser guided stargazing with expert guide
· High-powered Celestron telescope
· Maximum group size of 10 people
· Complimentary glass of wine, whisky or hot chocolate
· Blankets and hot water bottles available
· The Observatory itself provides a level of wind protection.
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is situated at the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, meaning it stands in one of the best locations in the world to view clear, dark skies and brilliant stars.
At the time it was certified in 2012, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve was the first dark sky reserve in the Southern Hemisphere and the first anywhere to be declared with Gold Tier status. This is the highest dark sky certification that can be accorded, and is a recognition of the pristine skies of the Mackenzie Region, which are essentially completely free of light pollution.
The peaceful and beautiful experience of darkness and starlight is one that is being lost, as light pollution becomes the norm in urban and suburban areas around the world. When you stay at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, we hope you will take the time to step outside, look up, and gaze into one of the world’s purest, clearest night skies.
The Dark Sky Reserve is recognised and certified by the International Dark-Sky Association, based in Arizona, which is the international body giving accreditation for Dark Sky Reserves and Dark Sky Places worldwide.
