Aoraki / Mount Cook: The Majestic Crown of New Zealand
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for outdoor adventures and stargazing.
Aoraki / Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest peak, a breathtaking destination for tourists seeking adventure and stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps, this iconic mountain offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and stargazing. The surrounding National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing glaciers, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife, providing an unforgettable experience for every visitor.
A brief summary to Aoraki / Mount Cook
- Canterbury, NZ
Local tips
- Dress in layers; the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Start hikes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
- Visit the Hermitage Hotel for a meal with a stunning view of Mount Cook.
- Don’t forget your camera; the scenery is breathtaking and photo opportunities abound.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting; some trails may be closed during inclement conditions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are already in Mount Cook National Park, getting to Aoraki / Mount Cook is straightforward. Drive along Mount Cook Road, which connects to State Highway 80. Follow this road until you reach the Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Centre. The journey takes about 30 minutes from the entrance of the park. There is parking available at the Visitor Centre, but make sure to check for any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transport
For those using public transportation, the nearest bus service is provided by InterCity, which connects to the village of Mount Cook. From the village, you can walk to the Aoraki / Mount Cook Visitor Centre, which is approximately a 20-minute walk (1.6 km) along the scenic paths. This will give you stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Ensure to check the InterCity schedule for the latest departure times and prices.
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Hiking
If you're up for an adventure, you can hike to the base of Aoraki / Mount Cook from the Visitor Centre. The Hooker Valley Track is a popular trail that leads you through the valley and provides excellent views of the mountain. The hike is about 10 km one way and typically takes around 3-4 hours to complete. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Discover more about Aoraki / Mount Cook
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
1.5 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Empress Hut
1.6 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.
Ball Hut
5.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Copland Shelter
7.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Hooker Lake
9.6 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
11.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
11.6 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.
Sefton Bivouac
11.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Southern Alps at Sefton Bivouac, a cozy mountain cabin perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Douglas Rock Hut
11.8 km
Experience the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness at Douglas Rock Hut in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, your perfect outdoor retreat.
The Second Swing Bridge
12.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Mueller Lake
12.9 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
White Horse Hill Campground
14.4 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
15.7 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
15.8 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
The Hermitage Hotel
15.8 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at The Hermitage Hotel in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's stunning natural gem.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt Cook
0.3 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
0.6 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
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Mount Cook Middle Peak, a stunning landmark in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Ball Pass
5.4 km
Explore Ball Pass in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and an unforgettable connection with nature.
Tasman Glacier
6.0 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 National Park
9.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's highest peak and nature's masterpiece.
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
10.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier through an unforgettable heli hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Westland District.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
10.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where glaciers meet rainforests, and adventure awaits at every turn.
Hooker Valley Track
10.9 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of the Hooker Valley Track, a premier hiking destination in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Blue Lake
11.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of Blue Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand - a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Blue Lakes
11.4 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
11.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Tasman Glacier Viewpoint in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where stunning scenery meets unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Tasman Glacier View near the lake
12.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tasman Glacier View in Canterbury, New Zealand - a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Hooker Hut
12.2 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Hooker Hut, a stunning alpine escape in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Fox Glacier Valley Walk
13.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier Valley Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Essential places to dine
Alpine Restaurant
15.8 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
16.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
The Last Kitchen
17.5 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
17.5 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
17.6 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
17.7 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
17.8 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
18.9 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
23.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
23.3 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
23.3 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
23.4 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
23.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
23.5 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
23.7 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
15.7 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
17.5 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
17.5 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Cafe Nevé
17.5 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
17.5 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
17.6 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
17.6 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
17.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
18.0 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
18.0 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
18.1 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
18.4 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
19.3 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
21.5 km
Explore ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery for authentic New Zealand art and souvenirs that capture the beauty of the Fox Glacier region.
Matheson Cafe
21.5 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
15.8 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
17.4 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
17.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
17.6 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
17.7 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
17.7 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
18.3 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.
Sunset Motel
18.3 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Moa Bar
23.4 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
93.8 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
