Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Travel Guide

Discover the natural wonders, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Nestled in Mackenzie Country, in Canterbury, in South Island, New Zealand, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a sight to behold. With its towering peaks, serene glacial lakes, and stunning alpine scenery, this park is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the park’s must-see attractions, hiking trails, activities, accommodations, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the cultural heritage of the area, you won’t want to miss the following attractions:

  • Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre: This museum located in the Hermitage Hotel celebrates the life and achievements of Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre: Interactive displays and exhibits give visitors a deeper understanding of the unique geology, plants, and animals of the park.
  • St. James Church: Built-in 1871, this church is one of the oldest buildings in the area and still hosts religious services and events today.

Natural Attractions of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural wonders of the park are abundant and easily accessible. Here are a few must-see outdoor attractions:

  • Tasman Glacier: Take a boat tour and see the icebergs from the Tasman Glacier up close.
  • Hooker Valley Track: This 3-hour hike offers spectacular views of the Hooker Valley and its glacial lake.
  • Mueller Hut: The 5-6 hour hike to the Mueller Hut offers stunning views of Mount Sefton, the Hooker Valley, and the Southern Alps.
  • Tasman Lake: Take a kayak tour of Tasman Lake to see the icebergs and the stunning scenery surrounding it.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Hiking and biking are two of the most popular outdoor activities in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Here are five trails that offer stunning views and natural scenery in the area:

  • Hooker Valley Track: This 3-hour hike is a popular choice for visitors as it offers breathtaking views of Hooker Valley and its glacial lake.
  • Mueller Hut: This strenuous 5-6 hour hike is an excellent challenge for experienced hikers, with stunning 360-degree views of Mount Sefton, Hooker Valley, the Southern Alps.
  • Red Tarns Track: A 2-hour hike offering an epic view of Mount Cook and its surrounding peaks.
  • Kea Point Track: A 2-hour walk boasting stunning views of Mount Sefton, the Mueller Glacier, and Mount Cook.
  • Sealy Tarns Track: This steep trail, which lasts around 4 hours, takes visitors to Sealy Tarns with views of Mount Cook and Hooker Valley.

Best Things to Do in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park has plenty of other outdoor adventures and activities to enjoy. Here are a few of the best things to do in the area:

  • Helicopter Tour: Witness the fantastic beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park through a scenic helicopter ride. The tour guarantees the best views of the mountains, glaciers, and lakes.
  • Glacier Explorer Boat Tour: Get up close and personal with the icebergs of Tasman Glacier Lake. This thrilling boat tour is one of the most popular activities in the Park.
  • Night Sky Stargazing: Witness the fantastic beauty of the South Island’s starry night sky. This stargazing tour is given in the clear skies of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter, skiing and snowboarding are factors of the area’s best activities as the park is home to some of the best ski resorts.
  • Fishing: Go fishing in Lake Tekapo, which is a popular pastime in Mackenzie Country.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

A week in the national park provides enough time to explore the distinctiveness of the area fully.

Day 1 - Arrival and check-in Day 2 - Tasman Glacier Boat Tour & Stargazing Day 3 - Kea Point Walk to Hooker Valley walk Day 4 - Hike Mueller Hut Day 5 - Mount John Observatory and stargazing Day 6 - Skiing & Snowboarding Day 7 - Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Must-Try Dishes

The area’s cuisine is mainly known for its locally sourced meat, wine, and produce. The below are some of the dishes you should try:

  • Venison: A staple in the Mackenzie Country and served in many restaurants.
  • Salmon: The region’s freshwater salmon is widely renowned, and it is a must-try dish.
  • Meat Pies: New Zealand’s staple dish can be found in most cafés and bakeries in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Pinot Noir: Mackenzie Country is renowned for its Pinot Noir, which can be found in most restaurants and vineyards in the region.
  • Craft Beers: The region is famous for its beer, with beers such as Mount Cook Alpine Amber Ale being widely available.

Where to Stay in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The accommodation options in the national park are limited, so it’s best to book well in advance. Here are a few options for your next trip:

  • The Hermitage Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers spectacular views of Mount Cook, with comfortable and modern rooms and suites.
  • Mount Cook Lodge: This budget-friendly option, close to Mount Cook Village, offers shared and private rooms and outdoor living areas.
  • YHA Aoraki Mt Cook Hostel: This hostel is ideal for budget travelers as it offers affordable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and great outdoor views.

What to Buy in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring back a memento from your trip to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park with some of these recommended souvenirs and local products:

  • Jade: New Zealand’s jade, also known as Pounamu, is a stone unique to the country and is an excellent souvenir for its visitors.
  • Honey: Mackenzie Country is known for its high-quality honey, which is readily available in most gift stores.
  • Mount Cook Alpine Lavender: Buy lavender products, such as soaps and creams, made using locally sourced Alpine Lavender, which can grow in the cool climate of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

The region is home to a distinct and vibrant culture and customs. The Ngai Tahu tribe, the area’s indigenous people, is one of the country’s largest. Visitors can learn about the culture through activities like hongi, a traditional Maori greeting, and through local crafts like jade carving.

Best Time to Visit Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

The best time to visit the national park is from October to April as it’s warmer and offers ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and boating. During the winter months, which lasts from June to August, the national park becomes a winter paradise, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Do:

  • Respect local cultures and traditions.
  • Prepare for varying weather conditions.
  • Be aware of the potential of sudden weather changes in the park.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety guidelines.
  • Litter or harm the environment or local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

  • Check the weather forecast before heading out, as weather conditions can change abruptly.
  • Hike with a partner or a group.
  • Carry sufficient provisions and first aid kit while hiking.

Health in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

  • Protect yourself from the sun, wind, and cold.
  • Drink sufficient water and avoid alcohol to prevent dehydration.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any sickness or injury.

Getting to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

The nearest airport to the national park is Christchurch International Airport. Once in Christchurch, there are several options to travel to the national park, including:

  • Renting a car from the airport and driving to the park, which takes approximately four hours.
  • Booking a shuttle service, which takes passengers directly to the park.

Bus Stations Near Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

  • InterCity coaches run to and from Aoraki/Mount Cook from various locations on the South Island.

Other Options

  • Rail: Several rail companies offer scenic touring options throughout New Zealand.

How to Get Around in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

The two primary modes of transportation in the park are walking and cycling. Private vehicles are permitted in the park but must be parked at designated locations.

Where to Go Next from Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Queenstown: A picturesque resort town, around 2 hours from the park. Queenstown is an ideal destination for adventure sports such as bungee jumping, mountain biking and skydiving.

  • Lake Tekapo: Around 1 hour from Mount Cook village, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its clear night sky and stunning lupin flowers in the summer.

Conclusion

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park offers visitors some of the most spectacular natural scenery of the South Island. From hiking to skiing and stargazing, the park has something to offer for everyone. Plan your visit to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and immerse yourself in the region’s unique natural beauty and culture.

Tramping in the park with Aoraki / Mount Cook in the background. Tramping in the park with Aoraki / Mount Cook in the background. Mount Cook from Peters Lookout Mount Cook from Peters Lookout