Aoraki / Mount Cook

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christchurch-canterbury

Christchurch - Canterbury

Highlights

  • New Zealand's highest mountain
  • Scenic mountain flights
  • Walking and hiking

Proximity

  • by car:

    4 hr 10 min from Christchurch

  • by car:

    5 hr from Queenstown

Aoraki/Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain, with a height of 3,754 metres.

Whether you climb or trek beneath Aoraki / Mount Cook or take a scenic flight over the top the magic of New Zealand's tallest mountain will stay with you forever. 

At the foot of the mountain sits the village of Mount Cook - a comfortable haven in one of the most unforgiving parts of New Zealand. On every side, the Southern Alps scrape the sky. Even in summer, the weather can change in the blink of an eye. The region is only 44 kilometres from the coast, so storms can arrive suddenly from the Tasman Sea to create dangerous conditions for climbers.

Despite the sometimes difficult conditions, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is an exceptionally beautiful place to visit. You don’t have to be a mountaineer to interact with the stunning scenery; there are various alpine walks beginning near the village, all about three hours return. Flightseeing, tours to the Tasman Glacier and stargazing are other ways to optimise your time here.

Functional facts: Approx. population 220, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, limited shopping.

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