AORAKI/MOUNT COOK PARK
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is the alpine heart of New Zealand, a land of 19 towering peaks and vast glaciers. It is a dramatic, powerful landscape that captures the very essence of the Southern Alps.
This park is a sacred place in Māori mythology, home to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki. It offers unparalleled access to nature’s majesty, from crystal-blue lakes to star-filled skies.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Peaks, Views & Glaciers
Aoraki / Mount Cook: The highest mountain in New Zealand (3,724m) and the namesake of the park.
Mount Tasman: The second-highest mountain in New Zealand, often seen from the western side of the park.
Tasman Glacier: New Zealand’s longest glacier, accessible by boat tour to see icebergs in its terminal lake.
Hooker Glacier: A significant glacier viewed at the end of the popular Hooker Valley Track.
Sealy Tarns Track: Known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” this steep track offers stunning views of the Hooker Valley and surrounding peaks.
Blue Lakes: Small, historic glacier ponds with surprisingly clear water, located near the Tasman Valley car park.
Kea Point Track: An easy walk to a viewing deck with magnificent views of Mount Sefton, The Footstool, and Mueller Glacier lake.
Tasman Valley Road: A scenic drive leading to the Tasman Glacier Car Park with various short walks and viewpoints.
Hiking & Walking Tracks
Hooker Valley Track: The park’s most famous easy-to-moderate walk, crossing three swing bridges and ending at Hooker Lake with an incredible view of Aoraki.
Mueller Hut Route: A challenging day or overnight hike leading to a hut with panoramic 360-degree views of glaciers, ice cliffs, and peaks.
Governor’s Bush Walk: A short, gentle loop track through a mountain beech forest, suitable for a quick nature immersion.
Red Tarns Track: A steady climb up a hillside to small tarns (mountain lakes) offering a classic high-angle view of Aoraki/Mount Cook Village.
Ball Hut Track (part): A historic track that follows the Tasman Glacier’s lateral moraine, offering rugged, close-up glacier views.
Tasman Lake View Track: A short, easy walk to a lookout over the Tasman Lake and the lower Tasman Glacier.
Village & Cultural Attractions
Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre: Located at The Hermitage Hotel, featuring a 3D movie, a museum on the region’s history, and the story of Sir Edmund Hillary.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre: A hub for park information, weather updates, and displays on the natural and human history of the region.
Mount Cook Village: The primary accommodation and service center, providing a base for all park activities.
Department of Conservation (DOC) Campsite: The main camping facility with a direct view of the mountain range.
Stargazing (Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve): The park is located within one of the world’s largest dark sky reserves, offering unparalleled night sky views.
Alpine Memorial: A somber spot near the village commemorating those who have died on the mountains.
Glacier Kayaking/Rowing: Guided tours that allow visitors to paddle among the icebergs on the terminal lakes of the Tasman and Hooker Glaciers.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Hooker Valley Track: Complete New Zealand’s premier day walk (approx. 3-4 hours return). This mostly flat track features three iconic swing bridges, breathtaking mountain views, and ends at the glacial Hooker Lake, often with icebergs floating in it.
Take a Scenic Flight: Experience the vastness of the Southern Alps, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and the Tasman Glacier from above on a helicopter or ski plane tour, often including a snow landing on the glacier.
Go Glacier Kayaking or Boating: Join a tour on Tasman Lake to get up close to icebergs that have calved off the Tasman Glacier (New Zealand’s longest glacier) and witness the scale of the terminal lake.
Hike the Sealy Tarns Track (‘Stairway to Heaven’): Tackle the challenging 2,200+ steps (approx. 3-4 hours return) for a rewarding view over Mueller Lake, Hooker Valley, and Aoraki/Mount Cook, with Mueller Hut visible further up.
Go Stargazing in a Dark Sky Reserve: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Take a dedicated tour or simply step outside on a clear night for unparalleled views of the Milky Way.
Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre: Located in Mount Cook Village, this centre is a tribute to the famous mountaineer and the region, featuring a museum, planetarium, and a 3D movie theater.
Take a Guided Heli-Hike: Combine the thrill of a scenic helicopter flight with the adventure of a guided walk on the Tasman Glacier itself, exploring ice caves, crevasses, and unique formations.
Hike to Mueller Hut (Advanced): For experienced trampers, continue past Sealy Tarns to stay overnight at the Mueller Hut (booking essential) for sunrise/sunset views that are considered among the best in the park.
Explore the Tasman Glacier View Track: A shorter, well-maintained track (approx. 1 hour return) to a viewpoint overlooking Tasman Lake and the lower Tasman Glacier.
Walk the Red Tarns Track: Take a short, steep climb (approx. 2-3 hours return) to a high-point that offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Cook Village and Aoraki/Mount Cook, particularly beautiful at sunset.
Cycle the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail: For multi-day adventurers, Aoraki/Mount Cook is the official starting point for the 300km (186 mi) cycle trail that runs all the way to the Pacific Ocean at Oamaru.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential: The only way to access the park is by driving on State Highway 80, which is a 55km (34 mi) scenic drive from the State Highway 8 turn-off near Lake Pukaki. A rental car offers the maximum flexibility for getting to trailheads and viewpoints.
No Public Transport within the Park: Once in Mount Cook Village, all walking tracks and activity centres are accessible on foot or by a short drive. There is no town bus service. Some tours offer courtesy shuttles between village accommodation and the main Hermitage Hotel complex.
Shuttle Buses from Nearby Towns: Several bus/shuttle services (e.g., Intercity or regional tour operators) run daily trips to Mount Cook Village from major hubs like Christchurch, Queenstown, Tekapo, and Twizel, often as part of a day tour or one-way fare.
Fuel and Supplies: The nearest towns with affordable fuel and supermarkets are Twizel (65km away) and Lake Tekapo (105km away). Fuel in Mount Cook Village is extremely limited and expensive; ensure you fill up before heading into the park.
Be Ready for Four Seasons in One Day: Aoraki/Mount Cook is an alpine environment, meaning the weather is extremely changeable, regardless of the season. Always pack multiple layers, including warm clothing and a waterproof/windproof jacket, even in summer.
Book Accommodation Early: Mount Cook Village is small with limited lodging (hotels, motels, a hostel, and one campground). Accommodation, especially during the summer high season (Dec-Feb) and holidays, must be booked months in advance.
The Māori Name: The mountain’s official name is Aoraki/Mount Cook. ‘Aoraki’ is the Māori name, meaning “Cloud Piercer,” and is a revered ancestor of the Ngāi Tahu iwi (tribe). Using the full, dual name is a respectful acknowledgment of the mountain’s cultural significance.
DOC Visitor Centre: Make your first stop the Department of Conservation (DOC) Visitor Centre. You can get the latest weather forecasts, track conditions, hut bookings, and vital safety information for your hikes.
Alpine Safety First: When attempting any track beyond the main day walks (like the Mueller Hut Route), you are entering a challenging alpine environment. Never hike alone, always check conditions, and consider hiring a professional guide for technical activities like glacier hiking or mountaineering.
Hidden Gems
- Peter’s Lookout: A popular and stunning photo stop on State Highway 80 before reaching the village, offering a classic view of Lake Pukaki’s turquoise water leading towards Aoraki/Mount Cook.
- The Blue Lakes: Despite their name, these small lakes are now a green color due to the retreat of the glacier. They are a short detour from the Tasman Valley carpark and can be great for a quick dip in summer.
- Glencoe Walk & Governors Bush Walk: Two easy, short tracks near the village that take you through native Silver Beech forest, a pleasant and sheltered alternative on a windy or rainy day.
Top Restaurants
Old Mountaineers’ Café, Bar & Restaurant [$20-$40] – The only business officially opened by Sir Edmund Hillary in the village, offering a cozy, rustic atmosphere with a roaring fire, stunning Aoraki views, and hearty New Zealand fare like salmon burgers, pizzas, and organic coffee.
Sir Edmund Hillary Café & Bar [$15-$30] – A self-service cafe and bar in The Hermitage with floor-to-ceiling views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, serving classic Kiwi favorites, cabinet food (sandwiches, pies, sweets), pizzas, and a selection of snacks—perfect for a post-hike refuel.
Chamois Bar & Grill [$25-$45] – A relaxed and casual pub-style eatery located at the Mount Cook Lodge, serving family-friendly meals like burgers, pizzas, fish & chips, and a selection of local beers and wines. Note: May be seasonal.
Tasman Delta Café [$15-$30] – Located a short drive outside the village at Glentanner Park, this cafe offers spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook over Lake Pukaki, serving coffee, cabinet food, and light meals for breakfast and lunch.
Alpine Restaurant – Buffet Lunch [$30-$50] – The Hermitage’s buffet lunch option, which provides a reliable and wide-ranging spread of fresh local produce, salads, hot mains, and desserts, offering a great way to refuel between activities.
Alpine Restaurant – Buffet Dinner [$60-$85] – Located in The Hermitage, this popular dinner buffet offers one of the best views in the village and an extensive interactive dining experience with fresh, locally sourced New Zealand cuisine, including seafood and roast meats.
Panorama Room [$90-$120] – The premier fine dining experience in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, located in The Hermitage, offering a three-course choice menu of modern Kiwi cuisine crafted from the freshest seasonal, local ingredients, all paired with truly breathtaking mountain views.
The Moraine (Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat) [$90-$150] – An exquisite ‘Estate to Plate’ dining experience located outside the immediate village (on Lake Pukaki), featuring a multi-course chef’s tasting menu that showcases produce from their kitchen gardens and the Mackenzie region in a stunning, architecturally designed setting. Reservations and transport essential.
Snowline Lounge [$15-$40] – A cozy lounge bar in The Hermitage, known for its open log fire and magnificent views of the Southern Alps. While primarily a bar, it serves a selection of nibbles, cocktails, local wines, and beers—ideal for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxed evening.
The Moraine – Billion Star Dining [$150-$250+] – A truly unique experience at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where a gourmet meal is followed by a stargazing session at the Pukaki Observatory, combining the region’s culinary excellence with its status as an International Dark Sky Reserve. Reservations and special packages required.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe, Bar & Restaurant (The Hermitage): Located within the iconic Hermitage Hotel, this is the main social hub of the village. It offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a casual drink, including local craft beer and classic spirits, often with spectacular window views of Aoraki/Mount Cook itself.
The Old Mountaineers’ Café, Bar and Restaurant: Situated in the heart of the village, this rustic and historic spot is frequented by climbers and hikers. It provides a warm, authentic atmosphere and is a great place for a hearty meal and a pint or glass of wine by the fireplace.
The Panorama Room (The Hermitage): An elevated, more refined bar within The Hermitage Hotel, known for its incredible panoramic views. It’s the best location for a sophisticated pre-dinner glass of New Zealand Pinot Noir or a premium spirit while watching the sunset hit the Southern Alps.
Alpine Restaurant Bar (The Hermitage): Another Hermitage offering, this location provides a more formal, sit-down dining experience but also has a bar area where you can enjoy local South Island wines and beers in a comfortable, lodge-like setting.
The Bar at Aoraki Court Motel: While primarily a motel, the small, intimate bar area offers a quiet, no-frills spot for guests and visitors to have a simple drink in a relaxed environment after a long day on the trails.
Tekapo Star Gazing (Lake Tekapo): Not a bar, but the ultimate evening social experience. Located near Lake Tekapo (about an hour’s drive), this is an outdoor and hot pool experience where you can enjoy the incredible Dark Sky Reserve. Many guests enjoy a post-soak glass of sparkling wine (provided on some tours) under the stars.
Kohan Restaurant (Lake Tekapo): Famous for its Japanese cuisine, this restaurant also offers a selection of Japanese beers and sakes, providing a uniquely different and cozy spot for a post-dinner drink in the nearby town of Lake Tekapo.
The Brew House (Twizel): Located in the nearby service town of Twizel, this spot offers a more typical bar atmosphere, focusing on local New Zealand craft beers on tap, making it a good choice for beer enthusiasts seeking a more casual pub environment.
Poppies Café & Restaurant (Twizel): A popular and modern cafe/restaurant in Twizel that offers a simple, relaxed evening experience with a good wine list, often busy with travelers and providing a friendly, social environment.
Tin Plate Bar & Eatery (Twizel): A more contemporary and urban-styled bar in Twizel, offering a wider range of spirits and classic cocktails than the high-country establishments, making it the closest option to a traditional bar setting.
Godley Hotel Bar (Lake Tekapo): This bar, within the Godley Hotel in Lake Tekapo, provides stunning lakeside views and a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a local beer or wine.
Rakinui Restaurant & Bar (Peppers Bluewater Hotel, Lake Tekapo): Offers a high-end lodge experience with a dedicated bar area, known for its elevated menu and extensive wine list focusing on Canterbury and Central Otago vineyards.
The Greedy Cow Café & Bar (Twizel): Known primarily for coffee, this spot also has a small bar selection, often frequented by locals and providing a very friendly, community-focused place for a casual evening drink.
Lakefront Lodge Bar (Lake Ohau): While a bit further out, this bar at Lake Ohau offers a quiet, remote, and incredibly scenic place to have a drink by the lake, embodying the tranquility of the region.
Bethany Cottages Wine Cellar (Twizel): A very small, local spot focused on Central Otago wines, often offering private tastings and a quiet, intimate setting for wine lovers.