Explore the Majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's highest peak and nature's masterpiece.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a breathtaking paradise for nature enthusiasts, featuring towering peaks, stunning glaciers, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing yourself in New Zealand's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Canterbury, 7999, NZ
- +6434351186
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can change rapidly, even in summer.
- Start your hikes early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views are stunning and you'll want to capture the memories.
- Check the Department of Conservation website for trail conditions and any alerts before your visit.
- Consider staying overnight in the park to experience the sunrise and sunset in this spectacular location.
Getting There
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Car
If you're already in Mount Cook National Park, the best way to get around is by car. Drive along the Mount Cook Road which connects you to various trailheads and viewpoints. To reach the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre, simply follow the road until you see the signs for the visitor centre, which is located at the base of the mountain. There is free parking available at the visitor centre.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transport, the nearest bus service is from Twizel to Mount Cook. You can catch the 'Mount Cook Connections' bus from the Twizel bus stop. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Please check the schedule in advance as the service may not run frequently. Once you arrive at the Mount Cook Village, the Visitor Centre is within walking distance.
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Walking
If you're already in the vicinity of Mount Cook Village, many scenic walking tracks are accessible without needing transportation. Follow the well-marked trails from the village to various viewpoints, such as the Hooker Valley Track or the Tasman Valley Track. These walks can vary in length, so ensure you have proper footwear and supplies for your hike.
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Cycling
For the adventurous, cycling is an option too. You can rent bikes in Mount Cook Village and cycle along the scenic paths. The ride to the Hooker Valley Track is particularly popular, but be prepared for some uphill sections. Ensure to check the weather, as conditions can change rapidly in the area.
Discover more about Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ball Hut
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
10.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak in the stunning Southern Alps.
Empress Hut
11.3 km
Experience the serenity of Empress Hut, a mountain cabin immersed in the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
14.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Copland Shelter
14.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Hooker Lake
15.3 km
Explore the stunning Hooker Lake, a glacial gem in Canterbury, surrounded by majestic peaks and vibrant landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Victoria Falls
16.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Victoria Falls, a stunning natural wonder in New Zealand's West Coast that captivates all who visit.
The Second Swing Bridge
18.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Sefton Bivouac
18.2 km
Experience the beauty of the Southern Alps at Sefton Bivouac, a cozy mountain cabin perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Mueller Lake
18.6 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
White Horse Hill Campground
19.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mt Cook Chalets
20.3 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mt Cook Chalets, your cozy retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
20.5 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki Court
20.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while enjoying comfort at Aoraki Court, the perfect base for your adventures.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge
20.5 km
Experience unmatched alpine beauty and adventure at Aoraki Alpine Lodge, your perfect base in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tasman Glacier
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tasman Glacier, the largest glacier in New Zealand, located in the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki / Mount Cook
8.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, offering stunning views, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural significance.
Mt Cook
9.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak nestled in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, a true natural wonder.
Mt Cook High Peak
9.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventurous spirit of Mt Cook High Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain in the Southern Alps.
Mount Cook Middle Peak
10.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Mount Cook Middle Peak, a stunning landmark in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Ball Pass
10.4 km
Explore Ball Pass in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and an unforgettable connection with nature.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
13.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where glaciers meet rainforests, and adventure awaits at every turn.
Blue Lake
13.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Blue Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand - a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tasman Glacier Viewpoint
13.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Tasman Glacier Viewpoint in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where stunning scenery meets unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Blue Lakes
13.7 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Blue Lakes, a serene oasis in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Tasman Glacier View near the lake
14.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tasman Glacier View in Canterbury, New Zealand - a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Franz Josef Glacier
14.7 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Franz Josef Glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-visit natural wonder in New Zealand's South Island.
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
16.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier through an unforgettable heli hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Westland District.
Hooker Valley Track
16.5 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of the Hooker Valley Track, a premier hiking destination in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Hooker Hut
17.9 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Hooker Hut, a stunning alpine escape in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Essential places to dine
Alpine Restaurant
20.5 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
20.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
23.7 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
23.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
23.9 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
23.9 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
24.1 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
24.1 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
24.2 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
The Last Kitchen
24.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
24.4 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
24.5 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
24.5 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
24.7 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
High Peaks Hotel
26.0 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
20.4 km
Experience mailing services in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and adventure.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
20.5 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Blucod
23.8 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Four Square Franz Josef
23.9 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
23.9 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
23.9 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Cafe Nevé
24.4 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
24.4 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
24.4 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
24.4 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
24.4 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
24.4 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
24.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
24.9 km
Explore the essentials at NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier, your trusted spot for mailing services amid New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Fox Glacier Community Centre
24.9 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
20.5 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
21.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Moa Bar
24.0 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
24.3 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
24.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
24.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
24.5 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
24.6 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
25.3 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Cave Arms Tavern
96.9 km
Discover the warm ambiance and delicious cuisine at Cave Arms Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cave, New Zealand.
