Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park visitor centre

The Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park visitor centre is a world-class facility that is a must-visit during your trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

The visitor centre is located in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook village and is well signposted, making it easy to find. The visitor centre building is an attraction in itself, featuring a large picture window looking out to the mountain Aoraki. The view from the window is breathtaking, and visitors can easily spend half a day admiring the view.

The visitor centre also has an intentions system provided for climbers and trampers to sign in when they enter and leave Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This system helps to ensure the safety of visitors to the park. The visitor centre is also a booking agent for all local tourism activities, making it easy for visitors to plan their activities while in the park. Great New Zealand retail products are available at the visitor centre, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs. Although there are no banks at Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, EFTPOS facilities are available.

The Department of Conservation provides 17 huts in the park, most of which are positioned to provide accommodation for mountaineers. Non-climbing visitors can enjoy the attractions of the park, including the visitor centre, the stunning scenery, and the stargazing. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand's only International Dark Sky Reserve, making it an ideal location for stargazing. To get to the visitor centre, visitors should drive into Aoraki/Mount Cook village on SH80 and then turn right at the T intersection. The visitor centre is located in the heart of the village and is well signposted.

Before visiting, visitors should check if a DOC visitor centre is open, as some visitor centres may have to physically close due to staff shortages or other issues. In summary, the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park visitor centre is a world-class facility that is a must-visit during your trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The visitor centre is open daily, and entry is free. Visitors can learn about the wonders of the national park, admire the stunning view of Aoraki from the large picture window, and sign in using the intentions system. The visitor centre is also a booking agent for all local tourism activities, and great New Zealand retail products are available.