Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Ball Pass
Explore Ball Pass, a stunning natural gem in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, offering breathtaking views, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
Ball Pass is a stunning natural wonder located in the Aoraki/Mount Cook region of New Zealand, offering awe-inspiring views and thrilling outdoor adventures for tourists. This breathtaking location is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature's grandeur, with opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploration.
A brief summary to Ball Pass
- Aoraki / Mount Cook, NZ
Local tips
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks for your adventure.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Respect the natural environment by sticking to marked trails and carrying out all rubbish.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife you may encounter.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Mount Cook National Park, take State Highway 8 towards Twizel. Once you reach Twizel, follow the signs to Mount Cook Village on State Highway 80. The drive takes about 45 minutes from Twizel. Once in Mount Cook Village, park at the Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Centre. From there, you will need to continue on foot to reach Ball Pass.
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Hiking
From the Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Centre, head towards the Hooker Valley Track. Follow the track to the end where it meets the Hooker Lake. From there, you will need to navigate towards the Ball Pass route. The hike to Ball Pass itself is strenuous and requires good physical condition. It is recommended to have hiking maps, proper gear, and to check weather conditions before embarking on this adventure.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a bus service from either Christchurch or Queenstown to Twizel. From Twizel, there are shuttle services that can take you to Mount Cook Village. Be sure to book these services in advance. Once at Mount Cook Village, follow the same hiking instructions as mentioned above to reach Ball Pass.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour that includes Ball Pass. Many local tour operators offer excursions that will take you to the trailhead and provide guidance through the hike. This can be a great option if you're unfamiliar with the area or prefer not to hike alone. Check with the Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Centre for available tours and their costs.
Discover more about Ball Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ball Hut
3.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
4.0 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Copland Shelter
4.5 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Hooker Lake
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Empress Hut
5.9 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
6.1 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Sefton Bivouac
7.8 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
The Second Swing Bridge
8.1 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Cook National Park while crossing the iconic Second Swing Bridge, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mueller Lake
8.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
White Horse Hill Campground
9.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a true gem for nature lovers.
Douglas Rock Hut
10.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Douglas Rock Hut, your perfect lodge in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Mt Cook Chalets
10.9 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at the cozy Mt Cook Chalets, your perfect alpine getaway.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
11.0 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
The Hermitage Hotel
11.0 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Hermitage Hotel, your gateway to the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge
11.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook at Aoraki Alpine Lodge, your perfect base for exploration and relaxation in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mount Cook Middle Peak
4.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Mount Cook Middle Peak, a stunning landmark in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Mt Cook
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak nestled in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, a true natural wonder.
Aoraki / Mount Cook
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, surrounded by stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities.
Blue Lake
5.6 km
Explore the serene beauty of Blue Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand - a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Blue Lakes
6.0 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 Viewpoint
6.0 km
Experience the majestic beauty of Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, a stunning scenic spot in New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Mt Cook High Peak
6.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Mt Cook High Peak in Canterbury, New Zealand - a must-see for every traveler.
Hooker Valley Track
6.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a stunning hiking experience filled with picturesque landscapes.
Tasman Glacier View near the lake
6.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tasman Glacier View in Canterbury, New Zealand - a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tasman Glacier
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tasman Glacier, the largest glacier in New Zealand, located in the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Hooker Hut
7.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Hooker Hut in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a serene getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in New Zealand.
Lake Müller Lookout
9.1 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Lake Müller Lookout in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Kea Point
9.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and natural beauty at Kea Point, a scenic highlight in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Alpine Memorial
9.4 km
Discover the Alpine Memorial in Canterbury, a serene tribute to nature’s power and beauty, offering breathtaking views and reflective paths.
Sealy Tarns Viewpoint
9.9 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Sealy Tarns Viewpoint in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where nature's beauty unfolds in every direction.
Essential places to dine
Alpine Restaurant
11.0 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
11.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
The Last Kitchen
22.5 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
22.5 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
22.6 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
22.7 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
22.8 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
23.8 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
28.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
28.5 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
28.6 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
28.6 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
28.8 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
28.8 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
28.9 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
10.9 km
Experience mailing services in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and adventure.
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
22.5 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
22.5 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Cafe Nevé
22.5 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
22.5 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.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
22.6 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
22.6 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Experience Fox Glacier
22.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
22.9 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
23.0 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
EuniQ Patchwork
23.0 km
Discover the art of quilting at EuniQ Patchwork, the premier quilt shop in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering a rich selection of fabrics and crafting supplies.
Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
23.3 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation in the heart of Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
24.6 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
26.2 km
Explore ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery for authentic New Zealand art and souvenirs that capture the beauty of the Fox Glacier region.
Matheson Cafe
26.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of local cuisine and breathtaking views at Matheson Cafe, next to stunning Lake Matheson.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
11.0 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
13.1 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.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
22.4 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
22.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
22.6 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
22.6 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
22.7 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
23.3 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Moa Bar
28.7 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.
The Hard Antler
92.8 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Cave Arms Tavern
98.0 km
Discover the warm ambiance and delicious cuisine at Cave Arms Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cave, New Zealand.
Wonderland Makarora Lodge
98.5 km
Discover cozy lodging, delightful dining, and outdoor adventure at Wonderland Makarora Lodge in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
