Pūkaki Observatory

Pūkaki Observatory is located at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat at Lake Pūkaki. Located in the heart of the gold status Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the observatory is set in a rural location with absolutely no light pollution.

You are invited to take a tour of the universe using the latest technology for star gazing and astrophotography. Designed as a personalized small group viewing experience, the dark sky becomes yours to explore.

Starting in the wine cellar you will be treated to a tot of whisky from the carefully curated collection or a glass of wine from the selection of top wines from the local region, whilst being introduced to the stars, planets, nebula and cluster objects currently present in the night sky. Moving through to the observatory, view the Milky Way Galaxy, stars and planets through their 6” refractor telescope. The roof of the observatory slides back to reveal the dark sky above. They use a combination of naked eye and telescope viewing. The telescope is responsive and if there is a special object you would like to explore they can navigate to this for you.

If you have an interest in astrophotography, they can help you to take the most amazing photos focused either on capturing the beauty of deep space objects or the expanse of the night sky using a wide-angle lens. In the right conditions, viewing and astrophotography of the Aurora Australis is also possible.

This is a stellar experience and is a unique and personalized opportunity to stargaze in this world-class dark sky reserve.

Minimum 4 people, booking is required.