Mount Cook, known as Aoraki in Maori, is the highest mountain in New Zealand at 3,724 meters above sea level. It is located in the center of the Southern Alps on the South Island and is also the heart of Mount Cook National Park.

On clear days, you can enjoy spectacular views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains, and various activities such as trekking, helicopter tours, and stargazing are available.

How to Get There

• From Christchurch: Approximately 330 km (about 4 hours 30 minutes by car)
• From Queenstown: Approximately 270 km (about 3 hours 30 minutes by car)
• Nearby towns: Twizel, Lake Tekapo

Accommodation

• The Hermitage Hotel: Located in the center of Mount Cook Village

• White Horse Hill Campground: DOC campground near Hooker Valley Track (reservation required)

• Aoraki Court Motel: Located within the village, mid-range accommodation

• Official Name: Aoraki / Mount Cook

• Address: Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, Canterbury 7999, New Zealand

• Latitude / Longitude: -43.7344, 170.0960

• Elevation: 3,724m (Highest peak in New Zealand)

• Administrative Region: Mackenzie District, Canterbury Region, South Island

• National Park: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (Established: 1953)

Useful Information for Travelers

• Nearest Village: Mount Cook Village

• Parking: Free parking available at Mount Cook Village, Hooker Valley Track entrance, etc.

• Gas Station: None inside Mount Cook → Refuel in Twizel beforehand

• Mobile Communication: No signal in some areas, GPS is essential

• ATM and Convenience Facilities: Almost none → Prepare in Tekapo or Twizel

• Emergency Contact: DOC Visitor Centre (Department of Conservation) or 111

Weather

Due to the mountainous terrain, the weather changes rapidly. Summer (December to February) is suitable for trekking, and in winter you can enjoy snow-covered scenery. Always check the weather forecast before departure.

Tips

• Waterproof jacket, water, snacks, and sunscreen are essential for trekking
• Drone flights require permission within the national park area
• Trekking is recommended between morning and noon as the sun sets early
   

Mount Cook is one of the must-visit destinations in New Zealand where nature and humans coexist peacefully.

Main Attractions and Activities

1. Hooker Valley Track

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: Approximately 10km round trip (about 3 hours)
• Features: A flat trekking course along the Hooker River with 3 suspension bridges and glacier lakes
• Endpoint: A viewpoint facing Mount Cook and Hooker Lake

2. Tasman Glacier Lake

• Activity: Navigate among glacier fragments via boat tour or kayaking
• Features: One of the largest glaciers in the Southern Hemisphere

3. Stargazing

• Location: Mount Cook Village and Lake Tekapo area
• Features: Designated as an international dark sky reserve. On clear nights, you can view the Southern Cross and the Milky Way

4. Helicopter & Glacier Landing Tour

• Fly near the summit of Mount Cook and experience landing on snowy mountains