Mount Cook National Park

Things to do near Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park offers a range of activities perfect for couples, including scenic hiking trails and leisurely walks amidst breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can explore various activity options at local centres, catering to different activity levels. Whether you prefer a relaxing spa experience or adventurous outdoor pursuits, Mount Cook provides a memorable escape into nature's beauty.

Shopping

For unique souvenirs, visit the Mount Cook Village shop for local crafts. If you're up for a drive, the Twizel Shopping Centre, about 30 minutes away, offers a variety of stores, including boutiques and supermarkets, perfect for finding gifts and essentials.

Recreation

Waiho Hot Tubs, a tranquil retreat 22.5km from Mount Cook National Park, offers rejuvenating body treatments amidst soothing vibes. For a more active experience, the Cairns Golf Course at Lake Tekapo, located 49.9km away, invites you to enjoy outdoor sports in a stunning alpine setting.

Adventure

The Hooker Valley Track offers a scenic hike through stunning landscapes, located 1.4km from Mount Cook National Park. Air Safaris provides an exhilarating scenic flight 14.5km away, showcasing breathtaking views. For a tranquil experience, the Governors Bush Walk Trailhead, 24.1km distant, invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore its beauty.

Nightlife

At Mount Cook National Park, the Mount John Observatory offers stunning stargazing experiences, just 48.3km away, while the Dark Sky Project, 49.9km away, immerses visitors in the wonders of the universe, both providing captivating atmospheres for a memorable night out.

Find the best attractions near Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park offers a plethora of attractions for travellers seeking breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Highlights include stunning glaciers, picturesque lakes, and the natural beauty of the national park itself. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or simply looking to soak in the stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this remarkable destination.

• Aoraki / Mount Cook: Aoraki / Mount Cook offers breathtaking adventure and stunning scenery, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With its towering peaks and diverse landscapes, it’s perfect for hiking, photography, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of New Zealand.
• Tasman Glacier: Located nearby, Tasman Glacier showcases magnificent glacial scenery. Visitors can marvel at the icy blue hues and expansive views, making it an excellent spot for scenic walks and photography.
• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre: This museum is dedicated to the legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary, featuring exhibitions on alpine culture and the history of mountaineering. It’s a great place to learn about the region's rich heritage and its connection to adventure.

Best time to go to Mount Cook National Park

The best time to visit Mount Cook National Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mount Cook National Park

To save money during your visit to Mount Cook National Park, consider travelling in the shoulder months of May and August to September for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel a month in advance typically yields better prices, and Saturday stays are generally cheaper than Wednesdays. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options and explore last-minute deals. Look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities to maximise savings. Additionally, seek out free activities, such as hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes, to minimise costs while enjoying the park's natural beauty.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mount Cook National Park are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mount Cook National Park is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mount Cook National Park is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Mount Cook National Park is Wednesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at Mount Cook National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.