Overview
Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki, is the highest mountain in New Zealand, standing at 3,724 meters (12,218 feet). It is located in the Southern Alps and is a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, and photography.
Aoraki/Mount Cook is the highest peak in New Zealand and holds significant cultural and geological importance to the Māori people.
Location
Address
Coordinates: -43.59410375, 170.1413162
Neighborhood: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Coordinates
-43.594104, 170.141316
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November to April
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better visibility
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Cool and mild
- • Wildflowers
- • Waterfalls
summer
Warm and sunny
- • Long daylight hours
- • Warm weather
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall colors
- • Clear skies
winter
Cold and snowy
- • Snow-covered landscapes
- • Winter sports
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Book accommodation in advance
- Bring appropriate gear
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high
- • Altitude sickness
- • Hypothermia
- • Heatstroke
Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Hiking attire, Layered clothing, sturdy boots, Hiking boots or shoes, Inappropriate or dangerous clothing
Booking Tips
- • 3-6 months for peak season
- • Official website or reputable tour operators
- • Varies by operator
- • Available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Size: 20 MB
Features: Maps, Trail information, Weather updates, Emergency contacts
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Center, Café
Charging Stations: Visitor Center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
Distance: 280 km
Travel Time: 3.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 300 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance
Historical Significance: Important to Māori culture and history
Insider Tips
- Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for a fascinating experience
- The best views of the mountain are from the Mueller Hut track
Local Recommendations
- • Try local café for coffee and snacks
- • Ask for guide John for knowledgeable tours
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Māori, Other languages depending on the guide
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Hooker Valley Track
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full landscape
Result: Stunning views of the valley and mountain
Mueller Lake
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare
Result: Reflections of the mountain on the lake
Tasman Glacier
Best Time: Midday
Tips: Use a telephoto lens to capture details of the glacier
Result: Dramatic views of the glacier and surrounding peaks
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Lake Pukaki
Distance: 20 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Lake Tekapo
Distance: 60 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Aoraki/Mount Cook Village
Distance: 5 km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Village
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre"
- "Take a guided tour for a better experience"
- "Stay for at least two days to fully explore the area"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (6)
Tasman Glacier Heli-Hike Tour from Queenstown
Mount Cook Spectacular Helicopter Flight from Franz Josef
Franz Josef: Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40-Min Helicopter Flight
3 Day Mt Cook Aoraki Private Photography Tour Departs Queenstown
Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo 2-Day Small Group Tour from Queenstown
Mount Cook Spectacular Helicopter Flight from Fox Glacier
Quick Info
Available Tours
36
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0 (free entry to most areas)