The visit. The Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre in Mount Cook Village has exhibitions as well as information on all the walks and activities available within the park.
The mountains are the main draw, but are not for the inexperienced or ill-prepared – conditions can change suddenly. Climbers must fill out a climber’s intentions card at the visitor centre.
If you’ve no head for heights, but still want to enjoy the rugged landscape, follow one of the walking tracks around the visitor centre or choose a gentle forest trail; look out for the Mount Cook lily, the world’s largest buttercup.
If you feel like getting a better overview, take a scenic flight from Mount Cook airstrip; trips soar above the park and also land on glaciers.
Snow sports enthusiasts should visit June-October. Skiers and snowboarders of all abilities are catered for – there are four snowfields, as well as the chance to tackle routes down the Tasman Glacier.
