Aoraki / Mount Cook

Aoraki, also known as Mount Cook, is the highest mountain in New Zealand at over 3,700 metres, a majestic snow-and-ice peak that towers over a stunning national park in the heart of the Southern Alps. The UNESCO park of glaciers, moraine lakes dotted with icebergs and alpine valleys offers superb walks like the Hooker Valley Track, and, as part of a vast dark-sky reserve, some of the clearest star-gazing on earth.

What you'll find

• Aoraki / Mount Cook - the towering snow-capped highest peak.
• The Hooker Valley Track - the walk to the glacier lake beneath the peak.
• The dark skies - the star-gazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie dark-sky reserve.
• Lake Tekapo and Pukaki - the turquoise glacial lakes nearby.

When to go

November to April for the mildest weather and best walking; the dark-sky star-gazing is superb year-round on clear nights, and winter brings snow and crisp clarity. The mountain is often cloud-capped, so allow time for a clear view.

Practical notes

The peak is often shrouded in cloud, so a clear view is not guaranteed; allow time. It is a serious alpine environment, so even the valley walks need proper footwear and weather awareness. It is remote, and the village has limited, pricey accommodation. The turquoise lakes and dark skies are highlights in themselves.

Nearby

The turquoise lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki and the town of Wanaka are within reach.

Key facts