Mount Cook - Culture

Mount Cook is the highest mountain in New Zealand. Its mile-long summit crest towers over 8,000 feet above a vast network of glacier-filled valleys, and three main peaks rise from the crest. Its isolated location near the west coast, makes it vulnerable for sudden storms, which are often long and severe. Violent weather, crevasses, and avalanches, have all taken lives on Mount Cook.

The glaciers here are extensive, wrapping the entire mountain in ice. The most substantial of these is the great Tasman Glacier, which actually originates on the slopes of Mount Tasman, two miles north. The glacier flows along the eastern side of Mount Cook, where it is fed by several of Cook's glaciers, then continues south for over eighteen total miles.

The town of Mount Cook is in a valley just south of the mountain. This is the hub for a tremendous variety of routes to the summit, including an increasingly popular Grand Traverse of all three summit peaks. Huts are plentiful throughout the mountain, particularly on the east slopes, which is the normal route.

For the less technical mountain enthusiast, a popular trek is the Copeland Track, a beautiful two day hike, with huts, from Mount Cook town to the Tasman Sea shore.

Come and experience true high country life in the heart of New Zealand's South Island. Awesome alpine scenery, fantastic outdoor activities, great Kiwi hospitality and some of the best cuisine you could possibly imagine! The village has all the amenities and services you require to make the most of your stay.

The world-renowned Hermitage Hotel and Mount Cook Complex form the major part of accommodation available in the Area. The complex offers a variety of accommodation suited to most travellers and budgets.

A huge range of activities are available within the village and surrounding areas - from Glacier skiing in the winter to hiking and fishing in the summer, there is something to appeal to everyone!

Bus - Daily Bus services to and from Mount Cook provide an easy transport option, and are also a great way to see the countryside along the way. The village is also well serviced by Bus Services with both Newman's Coach lines & Great sights, offering services to and from Christchurch & Queenstown daily.

Car - The drive from Christchurch to Mount Cook is 322 km long, and take approximately 4-5 hours. The road to the village is fully sealed, and the scenery along the way makes the drive worthwhile.

Air - Air New Zealand offers daily services to Mount Cook from Christchurch and Queenstown.