The Pukaki Observatory & Wine Cellar
Located in the gold level Aoraki International Dark Sky Reserve at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, we are perfectly located to explore one of the darkest skies in the world.
Stargazing in New Zealand | 100% Pure New ZealandOpening hours
Year-round Stargazing Tours.
Summer - 10pm first session; Winter - 9pm first session.
What's on offer
Join us for a unique dark sky experience in the Pukaki Observatory and our adjoining wine cellar. Located just outside of Twizel at the beginning of State Highway 80, we sit in the heart of the gold-status Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with absolutely no light pollution.
You will start the evening in our candlelit underground wine cellar, where you can enjoy a tasting of fine wine or scotch while being introduced to the features of the Dark Sky Reserve. Next, you will move through to the observatory to view the Milky Way Galaxy, stars, and planets through our 9.25" Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and our collection of high-powered binoculars. Our rural site is also well-positioned for viewing the Aurora Australis.
The price for this experience is $195 per person until October 2026, when the price changes to $220 per person.
We also offer our exclusive Billion Star Dining package for an evening of ultimate luxury. This premium experience begins at our signature restaurant, The Moraine, where you will indulge in a multi-course estate-to-plate fine dining menu showcasing fresh ingredients from our kitchen gardens and the Mackenzie region. After dinner, your experience continues with our guided night sky tour at the Pukaki Observatory.