Ball Hut: A Mountain Retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Nestled in the breathtaking Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Ball Hut is a cozy mountain cabin that offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of New Zealand's Southern Alps. This rustic retreat is perfect for adventurers looking to explore the stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and majestic peaks that characterize this iconic region. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or simply soaking in the views, Ball Hut serves as a welcoming sanctuary after a day of outdoor pursuits.
A brief summary to Ball Hut
- Aoraki / Mount Cook, 7999, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons, as Ball Hut can fill up quickly.
- Bring your own food and cooking supplies, as the hut has limited amenities.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
Getting There
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Car
From the Aoraki / Mount Cook Village, head south on State Highway 80 towards the Tasman Valley. Follow the road for approximately 10 km until you reach the end of the road at the White Horse Hill Campground. Here you will find parking facilities available (note that parking may incur a small fee). From the campground, look for the track leading towards Ball Hut, which is marked as the Ball Hut Track. The track is approximately 4 km long and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to walk. It is an easy to moderate hike through stunning alpine scenery.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take the InterCity bus service to Aoraki / Mount Cook Village. Once you arrive at the village, you can walk to the White Horse Hill Campground where the Ball Hut Track starts. The walk from the village to the campground is about 2 km and should take around 30 minutes. Once at the campground, follow the Ball Hut Track, which is approximately 4 km long and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Ball Hut.
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Guided Tour
Another option is to join a guided tour from Aoraki / Mount Cook Village that includes a hike to Ball Hut. Several local companies offer this service, which typically includes transportation to the trailhead and a knowledgeable guide to lead you on the hike. Prices for guided tours vary, so be sure to check with tour operators for details and to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Ball Hut
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ball Hut
0.0 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
4.5 km
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Mt Cook
4.9 km
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Empress Hut
6.5 km
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Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
6.6 km
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Copland Shelter
8.2 km
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Tasman Glacier Car Park
8.5 km
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Hooker Lake
8.8 km
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The Second Swing Bridge
11.6 km
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Sefton Bivouac
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Mueller Lake
12.1 km
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White Horse Hill Campground
13.1 km
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Douglas Rock Hut
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Mt Cook Chalets
14.2 km
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The Old Mountaineers Cafe
14.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Aoraki / Mount Cook
4.2 km
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Mt Cook High Peak
5.6 km
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Tasman Glacier Viewpoint
8.1 km
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Hooker Valley Track
10.0 km
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Hooker Hut
11.5 km
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Lake Müller Lookout
12.5 km
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Kea Point
12.9 km
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Alpine Memorial
12.9 km
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Sealy Tarns Viewpoint
13.6 km
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Westland Tai Poutini National Park
14.0 km
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Mueller Hut Route
14.2 km
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Hooker Trail Head
14.3 km
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Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre
14.3 km
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Big Sky Stargazing
14.4 km
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Glacier Explorers
14.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Alpine Restaurant
14.3 km
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Chamois Bar & Grill
14.5 km
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The Last Kitchen
22.5 km
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Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
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Breakfast Restaurant
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
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High Peaks Hotel
24.0 km
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Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
26.2 km
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SnakeBite Brewery
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
26.4 km
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Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
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Monsoon Restaurant
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Rainforest Retreat
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King Tiger
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
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Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
22.5 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
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NPD Fox Glacier Motors
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Cafe Nevé
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
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Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
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Experience Fox Glacier
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NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
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Fox Glacier Community Centre
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EuniQ Patchwork
23.1 km
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Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
23.5 km
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Blucod
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Four Square Franz Josef
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
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NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
16.0 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
22.4 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
22.5 km
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The Westhaven Motel
22.6 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
22.7 km
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Rainforest Motel
22.8 km
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Sunset Motel
23.4 km
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Moa Bar
26.5 km
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The Hard Antler
96.5 km
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Cave Arms Tavern
97.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tasman Glacier Skiing
14.3 km
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Mount Cook Heliski
14.5 km
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Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
23.1 km
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