
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.
To the Lake House
Sharing a Dream with Guests from Around the World
We’re pleased to be featured in this wonderful article from MiNDFOOD magazine:
Just a few years ago, it was a dream. Now Luke and Kaye Paardekooper are sharing their dream come true with guests from around the world.
At Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, they have created a luxurious and secluded place where travellers can relax and rejuvenate in one of the most beautiful and peaceful locations in New Zealand.
Set in a forest wilderness overlooking the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, the retreat is on the doorstep of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park in the beautiful and unique Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area.
From their rooms, guests can enjoy uninterrupted views up the lake to the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook. The night sky is just as spectacular: the retreat is inside the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Read the full article here.
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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Our Accommodation →
About
The Region →
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Our Team →
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Our Accommodation →
About
The Region →
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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.

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →