Aoraki/Mount Cook

Stunning Alpine Landscapes

Aoraki/Mount Cook is a true alpine wonderland, with a stunning array of landscapes that will take your breath away. The mountain itself rises to a height of 3,724 meters (12,218 feet) and is surrounded by a sea of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and pristine mountain lakes. Visitors can take in the breathtaking views from a variety of vantage points, including the Hooker Valley Track, the Tasman Glacier View, and the Sealy Tarns Track.

Glaciers and Ice Formations

One of the most remarkable features of Aoraki/Mount Cook is its glaciers and ice formations. The mountain is home to several major glaciers, including the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand, and the Hooker Glacier, which is known for its stunning blue ice caves. Visitors can take guided tours onto the glaciers to explore these incredible natural wonders up close, or take a scenic flight to see them from above.

World-Class Hiking and Mountaineering

Aoraki/Mount Cook is a mecca for hikers and mountaineers from around the world, with a range of trails and routes suitable for all skill levels. The Hooker Valley Track is a popular and relatively easy hike that takes visitors through stunning alpine scenery to the base of the mountain, while more challenging routes like the Mueller Hut Route and the Ball Pass Crossing offer incredible views and a true wilderness experience. For experienced mountaineers, climbing to the summit of Aoraki/Mount Cook itself is the ultimate challenge.

Unique Flora and Fauna

Despite its harsh alpine environment, Aoraki/Mount Cook is home to a surprising variety of unique flora and fauna. The mountain's lower slopes are covered in native tussock grasslands and alpine herbs, while higher up, hardy plants like the Mount Cook lily and the vegetable sheep cling to the rocky terrain. The park is also home to several species of native birds, including the kea (a mischievous alpine parrot), the rock wren, and the New Zealand falcon.