Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park [1] is dominated by the peaks of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain as well as Mount Tasman. There are several other high peaks of the South Island's, Southern Alps nearby.
Culture and History
The park is renowned for its natural environment. Take only pictures and leave only footprints is a good rule to follow.
Travel to Mount_Cook, visa requirements
From Twizel there is an all weather sealed road to the Mount Cook village. Mount Cook airport is down the road from the village.
Get around
Walking is a popular way to get around the park. There are a number of formed tracks and recognised walking routes.
For those who want to see or ski the mountains, there are light aircraft and helicopters that can get you to places in minutes that would otherwise take hours or days of walking.
Mount_Cook attractions and sightseeing
These are high mountains, so close up that it will put a crick in the back of your neck.
Fly From Queenstown with Glenorchy Air
City tours
- Walking
- Tramping
- Skiing
- Mountaineering
For walking options refer to www.doc.govt.nz
Tramping options include an excursion to Mueller Hut (refer to Department of Conservation website above) and the Ball Pass Trek. For the Ball Pass crossing you need mountaineering experience, crampons and ice-axe, or go with a guide. For the guided option see www.alpinerecreation.com or phone +64 3 6806736.
Skiing options include day skiing on the Tasman Glacier with Mount Cook Ski Planes and Alpine Guides, or heliskiing in the Ben Ohau and Liebig Ranges, or ski touring based at high alpine huts. See www.alpineguides.co.nz and www.alpinerecreation.com for more information.
Mountaineering options range from Introductory Climbing Courses to guided ascents of Mount Cook.
See www.alpineguides.co.nz and www.alpinerecreation.com for more information on all options.
Good restaurants and cheap meals
Mount_Cook nightlife, bars, clubs and pubs.
Hotels, youth hostels, lodging
- Mount Cook Youth Hostel Cnr Bowen & Kitchener Drives, PO Box 26, Mt Cook National Park, 24-32 NZD (Mount Cook YHA).
- The Hermitage (backpackers accommodation is also available).
- There are huts in the mountains, be prepared to climb to reach them.
- Camping out is permitted in some parts of the park, though you may need to dig a snow cave.
Stay Safe
Travelling in this mountain area requires preparation and some experience of mountain country.
Even in summer, day-walkers should carry warm clothing and some high-energy food, as the weather in this area can change rapidly.
Tramping and Climbing parties should be prepared to stay overnight in the open in an emergency. Intention plans should be lodged with the Park Rangers. Be aware that weather conditions may delay Search and Rescue efforts, so parties should be self sufficient and competent in all aspects of mountaineering. Local advice and guidance should be sought on any proposed activities.
Motorists should keep to the paved roads and not venture onto unsealed roads or 4 wheel drive tracks unless they are sure of their driving abilities and the suitability of their vehicle for the terrain and road surface. Some (notional) roads in this area are so dangerous they are excluded from vehicle insurance policies. In winter, chains should be carried and used when the roads become snow covered.
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