Mount Cook

Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki/Mount Cook, is New Zealand’s highest mountain, standing at 3,724 meters (12,218 feet). Located in the Southern Alps of the South Island, it’s part of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, which is renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery, glaciers, and world-class hiking and mountaineering. Aoraki/Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand and a symbol of the country’s rugged natural beauty. It’s a dream destination for climbers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering challenging terrains as well as easier scenic walks.Aoraki is a sacred mountain to the Ngāi Tahu Māori tribe. According to Māori legend, Aoraki was the name of a boy who, along with his brothers, turned into stone, forming the mountain after their canoe became stranded on a reef and tilted skyward. The mountain holds deep spiritual significance, and the name Aoraki was officially added to Mount Cook in 1998 as part of a settlement between the New Zealand government and the Ngāi Tahu. Aoraki/Mount Cook is not only a paradise for outdoor adventurers but also a place of awe-inspiring beauty, cultural significance, and natural wonder. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply taking in the views, it’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic and breathtaking destinations.