From Wikitravel

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.

[edit] Understand

The park is renowned for its natural environment. Take only pictures and leave only footprints is a good rule to follow.

[edit] Get in

From Twizel there is an all weather sealed road to the Mount Cook village. Mount Cook airport is down the road from the village.

[edit] 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.

[edit][add listing] See

These are high mountains, so close up that it will put a crick in the back of your neck.

Air Safaris [2] provide scenic flightseeing tours flying from both Glentanner Park and Lake Tekapo. The Grand Traverse scenic flight from here offers the big picture with an exciting and comprehensive aerial sightseeing tour of all the major mountains and glaciers in both the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and the Westland National Park.

Fly From Queenstown with Glenorchy Air

[edit][add listing] Do

• Glacier Sea Kayaking, ☎ 03 435 1890, [3]. A once-in-a-life-time experience! Go kayaking on Mueller Lake with stunning views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Mueller Glacier. $100 pp.  edit

• 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.

[edit][add listing] Eat

• Old Mountaineers Cafe, Bar and Restaurant (located next to the DOC Visitor Information Center). 11am till Late. A cozy and comfortable, family run restaurant. Opened in 2003. this restaurant is the place to be when visiting Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Come on down for a great meal,delicious coffee, a warm open fire, great music, fantastic views and a warm welcome where the spirit of the mountains lives on.

We can also help you with weddings, private functions and parties.

Everyone is welcome. edit

[edit][add listing] Drink

[edit][add listing] Sleep

• YHA Mt Cook Cnr Bowen & Kitchener Drives, PO Box 26, Mt Cook National Park, +64 3 435 1820 - prices from $26 NZ$.
• 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.

[edit] 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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