Beverages With A View

We’re confident it’s New Zealand’s best snow bar. Nestled on top of Roundhill Ski Area, the von Brown Hut offers panoramic views of the snow-covered Southern Alps and piercingly beautiful Lake Tekapo. Take the skis off and enjoy a refreshing beverage, snack and a good yarn with some of the locals. Seating inside and outside. It’s the perfect way to relax on the slopes – just remember you have to ski back to base!

Please note: von Brown is located on Roundhill Ski Field – you will need a Roundhill lift pass and intermediate skiing capability to access.

The Lonely Planet called it “possibly one of the world’s best locations for a café” for a reason. Located on the summit of Mount John near the astronomical observatory, the Astro Café provides an unparalleled view of the Mackenzie Basin. Sip on a coffee while taking in the stunning 360-degree views of lakes Tekapo, Alexandrina & McGregor.

Please note: there is a road user fee (payable at the gate by cash or EFTPOS) to cover the ongoing maintenance of the private access road. Alternatively, you can walk up the Mount John Walkway from the carpark before Tekapo Springs – a good level of fitness and suitable footwear is required.

Ok this one isn’t available without a guide, but we had to put it in there because the views are to die for. Enjoy a dram of whisky from what is possibly the world’s (and certainly New Zealand’s) highest bar next to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Surrounded by towering mountains and majestic valleys, this unique expeirnce offers whisky connoisseurs a selection of complementary fine whiskies, pure moutain air and breathtaking 360 degrees vistas. You can access this quaint little hut via helicopter with Mackenzie Helicopters or Air Safaris, or (for the more adventurous) by foot with Tekapo Adventures.

The Tasman Delta Café is located at Glentanner Park Centre, near where the Tasman River flows into Lake Pūkaki. This café offers unobstructed views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Tasman Delta. The large windows and outdoor seating provide an ideal setting for enjoying a beverage while appreciating the dramatic scenery. The Helicopter Line have their base here so you can also watch the choppers taking off and landing, or go for a scenic flight up amongst the mountains and glaciers.

High Country Salmon is a working salmon farm with a floating café on the hydro canal near Twizel. They offer a unique dining experience with views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. Savouring a fresh salmon dish with a drink while overlooking the clear waters and majestic mountains creates a serene and unforgettable experience. Be sure to check out the excellent on-site ‘Fish Shop’ with a large range of fresh, smoked and cured products in addition to deli foods, kitchenware, and merchandise.

Lake Ōhau Lodge overlooks majestic Lake Ōhau with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Enjoying a drink on the deck is perfect for taking in the serene landscape, particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset. Share one of their legendary platters of deli foods with friends & family.

Located at the Dark Sky Project in Lake Tekapo, Dark Sky Diner offers lakefront views next door to a fully restored 9-metre Victorian-era telescope. Experience the essence of New Zealand cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu offers a delightful fusion of modern Kiwi flavours and traditional Māori fare, featuring fresh kaimoana (seafood) and succulent meats, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients to celebrate the natural treasures of Aotearoa. Have a drink while learning about the universe under one of the world’s darkest and clearest skies, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.

Indulge in timeless elegance at Moraine Lodge. Located at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat where you can gaze at outstanding views of the Ben Ōhau mountain range. Enjoy high tea with exquisite pastries and delicious tea or savour a luxury dining experience. The cuisine playfully wanders the line between refined and rugged, borrowing from both fine dining and simple whole foods defined by freshness and the natural seasons. We recommend trying their Billion Star Dining experience – an evening of fine dining, exceptional views and stargazing in their cellar-observatory (yes, you read right – wine and observatory!)

Have you seen the iconic photos of the big glass windows looking out to Aoraki/Mount Cook? A must on every itinerary, The Hermitage offers a range of food and beverage options for those staying overnight or just popping into the national park for the day. Nothing says Pure New Zealand like being immersed in the Southern Alps and that’s exactly the feeling you get at The Hermitage, an iconic part of our heritage since 1884.

T.L.V. stands for ‘Tekapo lake view’ and it certainly delivers on that promise. This new(ish) restaurant opened on the lakefront in 2022 and has been delighting customers ever since with their stunning fit out, gorgeous views and great food and beverage offering. Grab a window seat or sit outside to enjoy gorgeous views of the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo.

The Old Mountaineers Café offers rustic charm with views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. It’s a great place to enjoy a beverage while feeling the adventurous spirit of the mountaineers who have visited this iconic peak. This is the only business within the village that was officially opened by Sir Edmund Hillary and it is steeped with history – you’ll love the extensive historic photographic gallery full of character and spirit.