Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: A Natural Marvel of New Zealand
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a breathtaking destination for tourists seeking adventure and natural beauty. Home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki, the park offers stunning vistas, diverse landscapes, and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it a must-visit location for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
A brief summary to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Canterbury, 7999, NZ
- +6434351186
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn for fewer crowds and mild weather.
- Dress in layers as weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks if you plan on hiking, as amenities are limited in the park.
- Consider taking a guided tour to enhance your experience and ensure safety on challenging trails.
- Don't forget your camera; the scenery is incredibly photogenic, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Getting There
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Car
If you are already in Mount Cook National Park, navigate to the Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre. From the village area, head southeast on State Highway 80, which will take you directly to the Visitor Centre, approximately 5 minutes away. The Visitor Centre is a great starting point for exploring the park, offering maps, information, and facilities.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transport, the only option is to use the bus services that connect to Mount Cook Village. The InterCity bus service operates routes from larger cities like Christchurch and Queenstown. Once you arrive in Mount Cook Village, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre, which is about 1 km from the bus stop. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary seasonally.
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Taxi or Shuttle Service
If you're looking for a more convenient option, consider hiring a taxi or shuttle service from nearby towns or airports (such as Twizel or the nearest airport in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park). This can be pre-arranged and will take you directly to the Visitor Centre. Expect to pay around NZD 100-150 for a one-way trip depending on the distance and service provider.
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Walking or Hiking
For the adventurous, there are several walking tracks leading from the Visitor Centre to various scenic points within the park, including the Hooker Valley Track and the Tasman Valley. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and carry water and snacks. The Hooker Valley Track is approximately 10 km return and takes around 3 hours to complete, offering stunning views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and its surrounding landscapes.
Discover more about Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ball Hut
6.6 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
10.0 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Empress Hut
11.3 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
14.0 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Copland Shelter
14.8 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
15.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Victoria Falls
16.9 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.
The Second Swing Bridge
18.0 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.
Sefton Bivouac
18.2 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
Mueller Lake
18.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
White Horse Hill Campground
19.4 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.
Mt Cook Chalets
20.3 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
20.5 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Aoraki Court
20.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at Aoraki Court, the perfect base for your alpine adventures.
Aoraki Alpine Lodge
20.5 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
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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, surrounded by stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities.
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
Explore the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Mt Cook High Peak in Canterbury, New Zealand - a must-see for every traveler.
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, a stunning natural gem in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, offering breathtaking views, hiking, and outdoor adventures.
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
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.
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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a stunning hiking experience filled with picturesque landscapes.
Hooker Hut
17.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Hooker Hut in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a serene getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in New Zealand.
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.
