Adventure Collective
Climbing & Wilderness Tour with Koru Scenic Tours at Aoraki Mt Cook - Christchurch

Climbing & Wilderness Tour with Koru Scenic Tours at Aoraki Mt Cook

Mount Cook Villagechallenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

4–8 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate to fit individuals comfortable with strenuous activity

Overview

Journey into New Zealand's highest peaks with Koru Scenic Tours at Aoraki Mt Cook. Experience glacier hikes, alpine scenery, and mountain adventures that define this iconic landscape.

Rentals
Christchurch, Canterbury

Aoraki Mt Cook

All ages • For Groups of 2+, Priced per Group • 13+ Hours • Our premiere full day scenic tour

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About This Adventure

Join us on a fantastic journey deep into the heart of the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and an alpine experience like no other

Duration

13+ Hours

About

Departing Christchurch early morning we travel via the townships of Geraldine, Fairlie, and Lake Tekapo before arriving in Mt Cook in time for lunch. After lunch we explore the area, including the Kea Point or Hooker Lookout track always with the majestic Aoraki / Mt Cook hovering in the background

Itinerary:

Join us as we track south from Christchurch towards Aoraki-Mt Cook via SH1, paralleling the mighty Southern Alps as far as the Rangitata River before turning inland towards the South Canterbury town of Geraldine for our first stop.

Getting ever closer to the Southern Alps we admire the spectacular views as first Lake Tekapo and then Lake Pukaki, both with their pale blue-green glacier fed waters, come into view with their mountainous backdrops. Naturally we have to stop at both locations to fully absorb the ambience of the scenery, not to mention the outlook from Lake Tekapo’s Church of the Good Shepherd.

Turning off at Lake Pukaki we penetrate deep into the Southern Alps, with the Ben Ohau range on our left, and the waters of Pukaki on our right, to the very heart of New Zealand’s premiere alpine region before reaching our goal in the Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park village.

Explore one or two of the short walks accessible from the village, enjoy a great lunch with fantastic views at the famous Hermitage Hotel before exploring more of the local area. If time permits we also visit the Tasman Glacier view points

All good things must come to an end though, and all too soon we depart for Christchurch, however there are still a few amazing sights to be had along the way!

Inclusions:

  • Pickup from some of the main hotels within Christchurch, or alternately from the Canterbury Museum
  • Expert, knowledgeable guide
  • Photography tuition (if required)
  • Late model, air conditioned transport
  • Full lunch*
  • Snacks, beverages, and drinks
  • Scenic stops

*Full Lunch available on Premium only - Select "Premium" when booking

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers

Temperatures can vary widely depending on weather and altitude, so layered clothing is key.

Stay hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially during strenuous hikes or in warmer weather.

Wear sturdy footwear

Hiking boots with ankle support are crucial for navigating rugged terrain.

Be cautious around glaciers

Follow guide instructions carefully when near icy surfaces or crevasses.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Mountain parrots (kea)
  • Alpine skinks

History

The park was established in 1953 and has since been a focus of conservation efforts, preserving the unique alpine ecosystem.

Conservation

The area actively promotes sustainability, with guided tours minimizing ecological impact and emphasizing Leave No Trace principles.

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Adventure Hotspots in Christchurch

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Layered clothing

Essential

Helps manage changing temperatures during high-altitude activities.

all specific

Hiking boots

Essential

Supportive, waterproof boots suitable for rugged mountain terrain.

all specific

Sun protection gear

Essential

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats protect against UV exposure at high elevations.

summer|fall|spring specific

Glacier crampons and ice axe

Required for ice traverses during winter expeditions.

winter specific