3 days in the mountains: Aoraki and Lake Tekapo

Mount Cook National Park is by far one of the most popular and internationally recognised places in Aotearoa. Every year, thousands of travellers, tourists, and locals visit New Zealand’s tallest mountain and explore its surrounding peaks.

There is so much to do here, especially if you like hiking. In this case, I’ve recommended you spend at least two nights, 2-3 days in the park. However, if you’re pressed for time, you could get a tiny taste of what the area has to offer and visit in one night, one (ish) day.

Note: If you need groceries or fuel, make a mental note to stock up in Twizel if you're travelling north, or Tekapo if you're travelling south, as there are no shops or petrol stations in Aoraki.

If you want to stretch your legs before driving down Mount Cook Road, I recommend you do the Lake Pukaki Shoreline Walk. It's a 13-kilometre track that takes about 4 hours return. But the beauty of this walk is that if you don’t have that much time, you can do a small section to get to a gorgeous viewpoint over the lake and Mount Cook and then return along the same trail. It’s an easy, flat, and 100000% worth it. If you’re here between late November and early February, you’re in for an extra special treat, as this is one of the best places in New Zealand to see wild lupins in bloom!!

Turn around and drive back the way you came along State Highway 8 and stop at Mount Cook Alpine Almon Shop. If you love fresh fish, you'll love it here! Grab something to eat or pick up some picnic supplies for lunch before turning onto Mount Cook Road.

Continue 5 minutes down Mount Cook Road from the State Highway 8 turnoff to your next stop: New Zealand Alpine Lavender. The lavender field is tucked away under the Ben Ohau mountain range and is the largest certified organic lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere and a true labour of love. Entry is $5 and I highly recommend visiting if you want an Instagram-worthy photo.

Aim to arrive in Mount Cook between 1 pm and 2 pm, as you’ll be walking the Hooker Valley Track this afternoon. It's one of the best hikes in the country!

Note: The Hookery Valley Track is currently closed for repairs and maintenance until Spring 2026.

There aren't many places to stay in Mount Cook, but the ones there have some of the best views in the country. Where you stay will depend on your budget and what kind of facilities you want.

If you're camping/travelling in a campervan:

• White Horse Hill DOC campsite: Right at the start of the Hooker Valley Track, which means this is one of the best campsite locations in the country! However, it's very basic, there are no showers and facilities are limited. But it's only $15 per person, and you'll wake up to jaw-dropping mountain views.

• Glentanner Holiday Park: My recommendation! Yes, it's 20km from the Hooker Valley Track. But this holiday park has incredible views of the mountains, all the facilities you could ever need, a kitchen, hot showers and lovely staff. There are also dorms. So, it's a great option if you're travelling on a budget but don't have a tent/campervan.

If you're not camping:

• Aoraki Court Motel is the budget-friendly option. It offers stunning mountain views and is just a 3-minute walk from Mount Cook Village. The rooms are modern and spacious, but they sell out fast. Prices start at $350 NZD per night, so you must book well in advance.

• Hermitage Hotel: The most popular place to stay in Mount Cook. Stunning rooms and facilities and a reputation for being the height of luxury in Mount Cook Village! The friendly staff will help you arrange tours, or book in at their delicious on-site restaurant. Rooms start at around $450-$500 NZD per night. Expensive? Yes. Is it worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Also yes! The Hermitage books out MONTHS in advance, so book as soon as possible.