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aoraki mt cook
Sample the high life on a grand
scale, in the midst of a breathtaking glacial park - New
Zealand’s most elevated playground.
Aoraki Mt Cook National Park has the greatest concentration of
mountains in the country. There are 19 peaks over 3,000 metres
including our highest, Mt Cook, or Aoraki, as it is also known.
The park encompasses the main divide of the Southern Alps, and
the Cook, Two Thumb, Leibig and Ben Ohau Ranges. Over a third of
the area is in permanent snow and glacial ice. The 28 km Tasman
glacier is the largest in the country. Since Mt Cook was first
climbed in 1894, the region has been the main focus of climbing
in New Zealand. It was the training ground for Sir Edmund Hillary
and other famous mountaineers. This national park is part of Te
Wahipounamu - South Westland World Heritage Area, in recognition
of its outstanding natural values.
Mt Cook (3,755 metres) has an irresistible pull that draws
climbers and visitors from around the world. Its tent-shaped
summit and triple peaks present a grand spectacle when viewed
from the Hermitage Hotel in Mt Cook Village. But a photo stop is
not enough to do justice to the beauty and power of Mt Cook. Take
time to do the local walks, particularly the superb lookout at
Kea Point and the stunning Hooker Valley. Experienced trampers
can tackle alpine routes such as the Mueller, Copland and Ball
Passes. Guided heli-ski trips can be taken down the mighty Tasman
Glacier, and scenic flights operate over the high peaks and
glaciers.
The immensity of this glacial park is impressive. But so too are
the small dainty plants that grow in the alpine tussock fields.
See the profusion of mountain daisies and beautiful Mt Cook
buttercups. Marvel at the antics of the daring and mischievous
alpine parrot, the kea. Also visit the nearest town of Twizel and
view the rare black stilt on the stony Waitaki River.
Whatever you do don’t bypass Mt Cook - it’s a
fascinating landscape of frozen beauty that should not be missed.
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