Breathtaking Views at Mount Cook
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, offers stunning views, outdoor adventures, and a serene atmosphere for tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Experience the majesty of nature in this iconic destination.
A brief summary to Mount Cook view
- Canterbury, NZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to catch the sunrise over the mountains for a breathtaking view.
- Bring a camera; the scenery is stunning and perfect for photography.
- Dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Check local weather conditions before heading out, as some trails may be closed due to snow.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a more informative experience about the area's geology and history.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from the Mount Cook Village center. Head southeast on State Highway 80 (SH80) towards the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Follow SH80 for approximately 10 kilometers until you arrive at the parking area near Lake Pukaki. There are several spots along the road where you can pull over safely to enjoy the view and take photographs. The best parking options are located just before reaching the lake.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transport, take the InterCity bus service that operates between Christchurch and Mount Cook Village. Once you arrive at Mount Cook Village, you can either walk or use the local shuttle services to reach the viewing area at Lake Pukaki. Shuttles may have specific schedules, so check local listings for times. It's a short walk from the village to the lake, approximately 3 kilometers, which takes about 30-40 minutes on foot.
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Walking
If you are already in Mount Cook National Park and prefer walking, from the Mount Cook Visitor Centre, follow the path that leads you towards the lakeside. The walk takes you through beautiful landscapes and should take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. Look for signs directing you to Lake Pukaki, which will lead you to the best viewpoints of Mount Cook.
Discover more about Mount Cook view
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
NZ Alpine Lavender
5.6 km
Experience tranquility at NZ Alpine Lavender, a stunning farm in New Zealand with breathtaking views, delicious lavender products, and a serene atmosphere.
Mt John Summit Circuit Track
31.5 km
Explore the stunning Mt John Summit Circuit Track, offering breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps—an unforgettable hiking experience in New Zealand.
Mount Cook Airport
45.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Mount Cook Airport, your gateway to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park's stunning landscapes.
Aoraki Mount Cook Village
48.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki Mount Cook Village, a gateway to New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps and outdoor adventures with unforgettable landscapes.
Haka House Aoraki Mt Cook
48.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook from Haka House, a welcoming hostel with stunning views and self-catering facilities.
Aoraki Court
49.0 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while enjoying comfort at Aoraki Court, the perfect base for your adventures.
Mt Cook Village Public shelter
49.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook at the Public Shelter, your essential stop for adventure in New Zealand's stunning national park.
Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
49.1 km
Experience the serenity of Mt Cook Lodge & Motels, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge
49.4 km
Experience unmatched alpine beauty and adventure at Aoraki Alpine Lodge, your perfect base in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
The Hermitage Hotel
49.5 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at The Hermitage Hotel in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's stunning natural gem.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
49.5 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Mt Cook Chalets
49.5 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mt Cook Chalets, your cozy retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
White Horse Hill Campground
51.0 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.
The Second Swing Bridge
52.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Mueller Lake
52.7 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Tahr Statue
2.5 km
Visit the Tahr Statue in Pukaki for breathtaking views and a tribute to New Zealand's alpine wildlife.
Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory
3.8 km
Experience the beauty of the cosmos at Pukaki Wine Cellar Observatory, where stunning views meet the wonders of the night sky in New Zealand.
Tapataia Mahaka Peter's Lookout (Lake Pukaki Viewpoint) (Mount Cook Road)
9.9 km
Discover breathtaking views at Tapataia Mahaka Peter's Lookout, where Lake Pukaki meets the majestic Southern Alps in New Zealand.
Lake Pukaki
11.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Pukaki, New Zealand's turquoise treasure nestled amidst the Southern Alps.
Lake Pukaki Lookout
13.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Lake Pukaki Lookout, where crystal-clear waters meet majestic mountains in New Zealand's South Island.
Pukaki swing
17.5 km
Soar above the stunning landscapes of Lake Pukaki with the exhilarating Pukaki Swing, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's natural beauty.
Aoraki Mt Cook Scenic Lookout
21.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki Mt Cook Scenic Lookout, a stunning destination for photographers and nature lovers in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Harlan's Gate View
28.3 km
Experience unparalleled views of Lake Pukaki, Mt. Cook, and the Hooker Valley at Harlan's Gate View, a stunning New Zealand tourist attraction.
Air Safaris Tekapo
29.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tekapo from above with unforgettable aerial tours at Air Safaris Tekapo in New Zealand.
The Helicopter Line, Mount Cook
29.5 km
Discover breathtaking views of Mount Cook National Park with The Helicopter Line - an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Glentanner Park Centre (Mount Cook)
29.5 km
Experience the beauty and adventure of Mount Cook at Glentanner Park Centre, your gateway to stunning landscapes and unforgettable outdoor activities.
Glentanner High Country Heli Hike
29.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and thrilling hikes at Glentanner High Country Heli Hike, a must-visit adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Lake Tekapo Farm Tours
31.1 km
Discover the beauty of Lake Tekapo with immersive farm tours showcasing stunning landscapes and friendly animals in New Zealand's countryside.
Silver River Stargazing
31.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the universe at Silver River Stargazing in Lake Tekapo, a must-visit for every traveler and astronomy lover.
Lake Tekapo Petting Zoo
31.1 km
Explore the delightful Lake Tekapo Petting Zoo, where friendly animals and stunning landscapes create a memorable family-friendly experience.
Essential places to dine
Moraine Lodge - Luxury Wedding and Events Venue
3.6 km
Discover luxury at Moraine Lodge: an exquisite venue for weddings and events with stunning views of Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook.
Moraine Lodge | Fine Dining Restaurant - bookings essential
3.6 km
Discover exquisite fine dining at Moraine Lodge with breathtaking views of Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook in New Zealand.
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, High Country Estate | Luxury Villas | Weddings | Restaurant
3.8 km
Discover luxury amidst nature's splendor at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat – where stunning views meet exquisite dining and serene accommodations.
Ministry of Works Bar & Eatery
10.4 km
Discover Twizel's vibrant culinary scene at the Ministry of Works Bar & Eatery, where great food meets live music in an inviting atmosphere.
Mint Folk & Co
10.4 km
Experience exceptional cuisine at Mint Folk & Co in Twizel - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
FishTail restaurant and bar
10.5 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at FishTail Restaurant and Bar in Twizel – a culinary gem offering delightful dishes in a vibrant setting.
Top Hut Bar & Bistro
10.6 km
Discover exceptional flavors at Top Hut Bar & Bistro in Twizel - where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
The Vier Project
10.8 km
Discover the flavors of Twizel at The Vier Project, where diverse cuisine meets warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
Dragonfly Kitchen
10.9 km
Discover the taste of New Zealand at Dragonfly Kitchen in Twizel – perfect for quick bites amidst your scenic adventures.
Tasman Delta Cafe
29.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Tasman Delta Cafe surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
“Morelea Lakeside”
31.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite local cuisine at Morelea Lakeside, Lake Tekapo's premier dining destination.
The Better Batter NZ
31.4 km
Experience delicious fish and chips at The Better Batter NZ while enjoying stunning views of Lake Tekapo's breathtaking scenery.
Fishtail Authentic Indian & Nepalese
31.5 km
Discover authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine at Fishtail in Lake Tekapo – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Blue Lake Eatery & Bar
31.5 km
Experience culinary delights at Blue Lake Eatery & Bar with stunning views in Lake Tekapo - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Grill
31.5 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine with stunning views at Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Grill in Lake Tekapo.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop
2.5 km
Experience the finest alpine salmon at Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop, a gourmet destination with stunning views of Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps.
Moostique GastroMarket
10.5 km
Discover the flavors of Twizel at Moostique GastroMarket, where local produce and gourmet delights come together in a vibrant boutique setting.
Four Square Twizel
10.5 km
Explore the essence of Twizel at Four Square, where local flavors and friendly service come together in a delightful grocery shopping experience.
Idstyle
11.2 km
Explore Idstyle in Twizel for unique local crafts and souvenirs reflecting the beauty and artistry of New Zealand.
Kiwi Treasures & Information Centre
31.5 km
Explore local arts, crafts, and essential travel tips at Kiwi Treasures & Information Centre in stunning Lake Tekapo, New Zealand.
Naturally New Zealand Tekapo
31.5 km
Immerse yourself in the local culture at Naturally New Zealand Tekapo, where unique gifts and artisanal delights await every visitor.
Three Creeks, Vintage Garage Decor
40.2 km
Explore the unique charm of Three Creeks Vintage Garage Decor, a treasure trove of eclectic vintage finds and quirky gifts in Burkes Pass, New Zealand.
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
49.6 km
Experience mailing services in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and adventure.
Colab Boutique
53.3 km
Explore Fairlie's Colab Boutique for unique clothing that embodies local style and emerging trends, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
Urban Infantware
53.5 km
Shop unique and stylish infant clothing at Urban Infantwear in Fairlie, New Zealand, where comfort meets contemporary design for your little ones.
BLANK SPACE
53.8 km
Explore the essence of New Zealand fashion at Blank Space, a boutique clothing store in Fairlie offering unique styles and local designer pieces.
The Little Red Fox
53.8 km
Discover unique Kiwi fashion and accessories at The Little Red Fox in Fairlie, a charming boutique that embodies New Zealand's rural spirit.
Mint Boutique
53.9 km
Explore Mint Boutique in Fairlie for unique clothing and accessories that reflect New Zealand's vibrant style and local craftsmanship.
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
79.7 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
79.8 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
46.5 km
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Snowline Bar
49.6 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
Cave Arms Tavern
64.7 km
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Wonderland Makarora Lodge
74.5 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
79.7 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
79.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
79.9 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
79.9 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
80.0 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
80.3 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Grey Way Lounge, Phar Lap Raceway
87.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Grey Way Lounge, a perfect blend of relaxation and racing culture in Timaru, New Zealand.
Moa Bar
87.7 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 Sail & Anchor Bar & Cafe
90.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavors at The Sail & Anchor Bar & Cafe in Timaru, a must-visit spot for every traveler.
Boiler House
90.2 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Boiler House, Timaru's charming bar offering craft beverages and local flair in the historic Royal Arcade.
Foresized Bar
90.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Foresized Bar in Timaru, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
