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
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Empress Hut
6.5 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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
The Second Swing Bridge
11.6 km
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Sefton Bivouac
11.6 km
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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
14.2 km
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Mt Cook Chalets
14.2 km
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Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
14.3 km
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The Hermitage Hotel
14.4 km
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Aoraki Alpine Lodge
14.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ball Pass
3.8 km
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Aoraki / Mount Cook
4.2 km
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Mount Cook Middle Peak
4.5 km
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Mt Cook
4.9 km
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Mt Cook High Peak
5.6 km
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Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
6.6 km
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Blue Lake
7.9 km
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Tasman Glacier Viewpoint
8.1 km
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Blue Lakes
8.2 km
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Tasman Glacier View near the lake
8.9 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
Discover the Alpine Memorial in Canterbury, a serene tribute to nature’s power and beauty, offering breathtaking views and reflective paths.
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
22.5 km
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
22.6 km
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Breakfast Restaurant
22.7 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
22.8 km
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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
26.3 km
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
26.4 km
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Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
26.4 km
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Monsoon Restaurant
26.6 km
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Rainforest Retreat
26.6 km
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King Tiger
26.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NZ Post Centre Mt Cook
14.3 km
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Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
22.5 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
22.5 km
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NPD Fox Glacier Motors
22.5 km
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Cafe Nevé
22.5 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
22.6 km
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Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
22.6 km
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
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Experience Fox Glacier
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NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
23.0 km
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Fox Glacier Community Centre
23.0 km
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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
26.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Snowline Bar
14.4 km
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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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