The Aoraki/Mount Cook Visitor Centre is a great first stop when you’re exploring the Southern Alps. Right in the heart of the national park, it’s the go-to place for info on the area, from epic hikes to local wildlife and everything in between. The staff are super helpful and can point you toward the best trails, whether you’re up for an easy walk or something more hardcore.

Inside, there are interactive displays about the region’s geology and ecology, so it’s actually a fun place to learn a bit before you head out. And the views? Unreal. You’ll definitely want your camera, the mountains put on a show right outside the windows.