Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a stunning destination nestled in New Zealand's Southern Alps, home to the tallest mountain in the country, Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Spanning 70,000 hectares, the park offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes. Whether we're seasoned hikers or casual explorers, this park provides an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Aoraki / Mount Cook is between October and April. The summer months (December to March) offer the best weather for hiking and feature a colorful display of alpine flowers, including the Mt Cook lily and Edelweiss. However, these months also bring more visitors, so it's advisable to start hikes early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Getting There and Around
Aoraki / Mount Cook is about 330 kilometers (5 hours) from Christchurch, accessible by car or bus. Renting a car offers flexibility, with scenic views along State Highway 8. If we prefer not to drive, buses from Christchurch cost around NZD 80 one way.
Within the park, walking is the primary way to get around. The tracks are well-marked, and getting from one to another is easy.
Entrance Fees and Other Costs
Entry to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is free. However, some activities, like scenic flights over Aoraki, cost NZD 200-350 per person. The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre at the Hermitage Hotel charges NZD 25 for adults, NZD 10 for children. It's a great place to learn about the region's mountaineering history.
What to See and Do
At the heart of the park is Aoraki / Mount Cook, standing at 3,724 meters. It's a climber's dream, but for most visitors, the surrounding landscapes, including glaciers like the Tasman Glacier, offer plenty to explore. The park's most popular trail, the Valley Track, is a 10-kilometer walk that takes us past alpine meadows and the Valley River, with breathtaking views of the mountain. It's a relatively easy walk, taking about 3-4 hours.
For a more challenging trek, the Tasman Glacier View Walk offers views of the largest glacier in the park and takes 1-1.5 hours to complete.
AORAKI / Mt Cook - MUST DO Mt Cook Travel Guide
video by Larissa Dening
Accommodation Options
There are several options for staying in the park. The Hermitage Hotel is a luxurious choice with stunning views, starting at NZD 250 per night. For a more affordable stay, the White Horse Hill Campground offers campsites for NZD 15 per person per night, ideal for those looking to stay close to the tracks.
More Tips for Visiting
Pack for changing weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothes, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots.
Book early: Accommodation and campsites can fill up quickly during peak season, so booking in advance is recommended.
Respect nature: Stick to marked trails and pack out all waste to help preserve this beautiful area.
Final Thoughts
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park offers the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation. Whether we're walking through stunning alpine valleys or staying in a cozy lodge with mountain views, the park promises an experience we'll never forget. So, Lykkers, are you ready to explore one of New Zealand's most incredible natural wonders?
