Dining FAQs | Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

Where is The Moraine located?
The Moraine is located within the private estate at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat and overlooks the Ben Ohau Range.
Do I need to be staying at the Retreat to dine at The Moraine?
Dining at The Moraine is included for Retreat guests. Visitors are also welcome to book the Chef’s Tasting Experience, Billion Star Dining, selected group lunches and special occasion dining events by prior reservation.
What style of food do you serve?
Our approach is seasonal, estate-to-plate and plant-led, combining produce grown on the estate with carefully selected ingredients from local and New Zealand producers. The style is refined, natural and centred on local provenance.
Is there a set menu?
The Chef’s Tasting Experience is a multi-course menu created daily around the season and the produce available. Alongside vegetables, herbs and other ingredients from the estate and region, dishes may feature proteins such as high-country lamb, Black Angus beef, local Wagyu and alpine salmon.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes. We are happy to cater for allergies, dietary requirements and preferences with advance notice, and our chefs will adapt the menu wherever possible while retaining the character of the experience.
Do you offer a children's menu?
A children's tasting experience is available for guests aged 12 and under.
Can we book a private lunch or dinner?
Yes. Private dining can be arranged for couples, families and groups, subject to availability. Different locations around the estate may also be available depending on the occasion, group size and season.
Can groups and tours dine at the Retreat?
Yes. Selected private and luxury tour groups can include lunch or another dining experience at The Moraine by prior arrangement.
What is Billion Star Dining?
Billion Star Dining brings together our culinary and dark-sky experiences. Depending on the experience or event, this may combine dining at The Moraine with an evening at Pukaki Observatory & Wine Cellar, or dining beneath the Mackenzie night sky.
Do you host special dining events?
Yes. We host selected seasonal and special-event dining experiences throughout the year. These may focus on produce, wine, astronomy, Matariki or other seasonal moments at the Retreat.