AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK

Mount Cook National Park is home to New Zealand’s 8 of 12 largest glaciers. From helicopter rides, and scenic walks to dinner with a view, this national park is dotted with many amazing activities. Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, can also be found here. As far as national parks are considered, it has to be on top of New Zealand's famous places.

Home to iconic Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, the Aoraki National Park is a true alpine with towering peaks, largest glaciers and sprawling snowfields. Amongst the most scenic places to visit in New Zealand, it promises an offbeat adventure and thrilling experience making the visit enthralling and significant. Including Aoraki National Park in your New Zealand tours ensures an unforgettable journey through some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes.

It is a preferred destination for walkers and hikers that are spoilt for choice with trails extending from easy, moderate to challenging expeditions. New Zealand’s largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier is its star attraction and offers a perfect setting for skiing, heli-skiing and other adventures.

Enriched with a bright and clear sky, the stargazing experience here is magnificent and out of the world. Do add this stunning destination to the bucket list of places to see in New Zealand and collect several cherishable moments.

Highlights

• Undertake the Hooker Valley track because your trip to the Mount Cook National Park would be incomplete without it.
• It is not only the most popular hike in Mount Cook National park but one of the easiest ones as well.
• Witness Mueller lake and the mountains in all their glory by undertaking the Mueller lake viewpoint which is another scenic track that you can undertake.
• Marvel at the night skies as they get lit up with millions of stars because Mount Cook National Park is also a part of a dark sky reserve that is protected from artificial light pollution.
• Enjoy the stargazing as well as take numerous astral photographs here.

How To Reach

1. By car: Aoraki or Mount Cook National Park is located around 330 km from the Christchurch city center. It will take around 3 hours and 55 minutes via State Hwy 8 and SH 1 route. 

2. By foot: Aoraki or Mount Cook National Park is 321 km from Christchurch city center. Traveling via the SH 1 route takes around 72 hours.

Best Time To Visit

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park New Zealand remains open all through the year. 

1. Best season: Winters are the best time to explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand. You may also plan between August and September. 

2. Best day in the week: Plan your visit to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand, during the weekends. 

3. The best time of the day: Visit Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park New Zealand in the early morning for incredible views. 

Other Essential Information

• Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is extremely cold. So wear covered clothes. 
• Carry your trekking shoes to trek your way upto the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. 
• Carry essentials such as sunscreen and a hat to protect from the harsh sun. 
• Carry water with yourself so that you remain hydrated. 
• Do not dispose of garbage anywhere except trashcans.