Mount Cook in New Zealand is one of those locations that you will never forget once you've visited. Situated in the heart of the stunning South Island of New Zealand, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is a true masterpiece of nature. Home to the highest mountain in the country, Mount Cook or Aoraki, the name given to by Māori, it is a majestic sight to behold. The parks snowy peaks, towering glaciers, and emerald coloured lakes create a breathtaking landscape that is like nothing else in the country, and it is so perfect for photography.
Whether you are landscape photographer, an avid hiker, nature lover, or simply seeking incredible scenery and iconic New Zealand views, Mount Cook National Park has something to offer for everyone. There are countless hikes throughout the alps, some easy, some requiring expert alpine experience, but all offer rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges.
I've actually lost count how many times I have visited Mount Cook for landscape photography but I can definitely say that it is one of my favourite locations ever and each time I've visited I have come out with images I love, even with the challenges of unpredictable weather.
So if you're ready to immerse yourself in the incredible beauty of Mount Cook, let's go and I will take you to all the extraordinary landscape photo locations I have encountered in this magical part of New Zealand's South Island.
For ease of use and exact locations you can download my New Zealand Map and Guide, plus have access to travel itineraries and over 400 epic New Zealand photo locations, activities and places to stay.
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THINGS TO DO IN MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK NEW ZEALAND
Although this guide focuses more on the photography aspect of Mount Cook National Park, there are so many things to do here that there really is something for everyone.
Hike on one of the many trails, such as the popular Hooker Valley Track, which provides stunning views of glaciers, alpine streams, and eventually, the majestic Hooker Lake with Aoraki/Mount Cook towering in the background. For a more challenging hike, the Sealy Tarns or continuing on to the Mueller Hut hike offers the most incredible panoramic views over the entire Mount Cook National Park.
If you're into stargazing, Mount Cook is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and on a clear night you'll see the stars as if you can reach out an touch them.
Tasman Glacier and the Tasman Glacier Lake is a real jewel and you can take a boat tour on the lake or even try glacier kayaking. For those seeking a bird's eye view, scenic flights and helicopter tours provide unforgettable aerial perspectives of Mount Cook's rugged terrain and icy expanses.
No matter your interests, Mount Cook National Park promises unforgettable experiences and endless photo opportunities.
GETTING TO AORAKI MOUNT COOK IN NEW ZEALAND
MOUNT COOK FROM CHRISTCHURCH
Driving from Christchurch to Mount Cook is a journey that showcases some of the most stunning landscapes New Zealand has to offer.
Starting in Christchurch, you’ll head southwest on State Highway 1 before turning inland at Geraldine. The next stop will be Fairlie and if you happen to be hungry then the Fairlie Bake House is an absolute must do for their award winning pies.
As you drive through the Canterbury Plains, the rolling farmlands gradually give way to the foothills of the Southern Alps. A must stop is the super beautiful town of Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.
Check out my Photo Guide to Lake Tekapo for more info.
Continuing on State Highway 8, the road takes you alongside the amazing Lake Pukaki, where you’ll be greeted with your first glimpses of Aoraki Mount Cook on a clear day.
The final stretch along State Highway 80, also known as the Mount Cook Road, offers breathtaking views as you approach Mount Cook National Park park, with the majestic peaks drawing ever closer.
This scenic drive, approximately 4 hours 15 mins without stops, is filled with photo opportunities and natural beauty, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
MOUNT COOK FROM QUEENSTOWN
Starting in Queenstown, you'll take the Crown Range Road, New Zealand's highest main road, which winds its way up to the summit, offering stunning panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin and the Remarkables mountain range.
Check out my Guide to Queenstown South Island New Zealand for awesome photo locations.
The road descends into the beautiful town of Wanaka, where you can enjoy a break by the serene Lake Wanaka. Check out the Doughbin Bakery for awesome coffee and bakery treats.
If you're planning to stay in Wanaka check out my Guide to the Wanaka Tree blog.
Past Wanaka you will merge onto State Highway 8, the route takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the Lindis Pass, with its sweeping tussock covered hills, then through Omarama and Twizel. As you approach the shimmering Lake Pukaki, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook if the skies are clear.
The final stretch on State Highway 80 brings you to Mount Cook National Park, with the Southern Alps towering in the distance. This scenic drive, approximately 3 hours 15 mins without stops, is another one full of photo opportunities and amazing scenery.
MOUNT COOK VILLAGE NEW ZEALAND
Some things to note about your stay in Mount Cook Village:
There is one small petrol station with two pumps but it is fairly expensive so I would fill your vehicle in Lake Tekapo or Twizel.
Restaurant / Dining is very limited with only a couple of cafes and restaurants (Alpine Restaurant Hermitage , Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe and The Old Mountaineers Cafe (which has varied hours and not very reliable) so take your own snacks/dinners if you don't want to eat out.
There is no supermarket in Mount Cook Village, Twizel Four Square and Tekapo Four Square are the closest so stock up before you drive in.
MOUNT COOK ACCOMMODATION
WHERE TO STAY IN MOUNT COOK SOUTH ISLAND NEW ZEALAND
In Aoraki Mount Cook there are not a huge amount of accommodation options, but you will find very good camp grounds, hotels and motels, all designed to enhance your experience in this amazing mountain village.
MOUNT COOK LODGE
I've stayed at Mount Cook Lodge countless times which offers cozy and convenient rooms with stunning alpine views, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of Mount Cook National Park. It is great for families and comes at a cheaper price than The Hermitage.
MOUNT COOK HOLIDAY PARK
There are two main holiday park / camping grounds in Mount Cook National Park. Glentanner Holiday Park offers powered and unpowered sites plus lodging, and the White Horse Hill Campground is a basic DOC campground which is great for campervans.
MOUNT COOK HOTELS
From personal experience I have stayed at the following Hotels and Motels in Mount Cook and can absolutely vouch for them.
MOUNT COOK NEW ZEALAND WEATHER
Mount Cook’s weather is famously unpredictable, offering both challenges and opportunities for photographers. I have definitely had moments of pure joy at the incredible conditions unfolding in the park, and also huge frustration at not being able to see the mountain for days and waiting for it to appear.
The Mount Cook region experiences a high alpine climate, with temperatures varying significantly between seasons. Summer months (December to February) are generally mild, with daytime temperatures averaging between 10-20°C, however sudden weather changes, including rain and high winds can often occur, so being prepared is essential.
Winter (June to August) brings cold temperatures, often dropping below freezing, and frequent snowfall, transforming the park into a winter wonderland with breathtaking, snow covered scenes. Winter is my favourite time to be in Mount Cook for photography with so many opportunities for incredible icy landscapes. The crisp cold mountain air draws less cloud at this time of year and you might have a better shot at seeing the amazing Mount Cook without it being covered in cloud.
Spring and Autumn are transitional seasons, offering a mix of conditions and stunning natural colours, from blooming alpine flowers to golden foliage along the shores of Lake Pukaki.
The dramatic interplay of light and weather in Mount Cook, from clear sunny days to misty, cloud shrouded peaks, can create unique and captivating photo opportunities year round, rewarding those of us who are adaptable and prepared for the elements.
YOUR COMPLETE PHOTO GUIDE TO MOUNT COOK SOUTH ISLAND NEW ZEALAND
Mount Cook Map by DOC
PHOTO LOCATIONS IN AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
1. THE MOUNT COOK ROAD
The drive into Mount Cook National Park is one of the best scenic drives in New Zealand and I think everyone should experience the absolute beauty it beholds at least once in their lifetime.
For photography there are so many pull the car over moments that it's hard to name only just a few, but here are some of the places I have stopped and taken photos along the Mount Cook Road.
MOUNT COOK ROAD PETERS LOOKOUT
The photo opportunity at 'Peter's Lookout' along the Mount Cook Road is one of the prime photography spots in Mount Cook National Park.
Ample parking is provided so you can spend as long as you like to capture stunning shots.
Photography info: Take your zoom lens (70mm-200mm) to enhance the prominence of Mt Cook in your photos. This location is ideal for capturing the golden hour beauty at both sunrise and sunset.
MOUNT COOK ROAD CLOSE UP
This roadside pullover on the Mount Cook Road (SH80) looks amazing on your zoom lens as it allows Mount Cook to look larger than life against the road and surrounding alpine vegetation.
Please take care when setting up for this shot as it is a main highway and can get very busy with cars. Always have a spotter and stay clear on oncoming traffic and from behind.
Photography info: This location is beautiful at sunrise with the first light hitting Mount Cook, and also makes a great day shot. Take your zoom lens (70mm-200mm or similar).
MOUNT COOK ROAD PULLOVER
This roadside pullover on the Mount Cook Road is a beautiful shot on your mid range zoom lens taking in the landscape of Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains.
Again please take care when setting up for this shot as it is a main highway and can get very busy with cars. Always have a spotter and stay clear on oncoming traffic and from behind.
Photography info: This location is beautiful at sunrise with the first light hitting Mount Cook, and take your mid range zoom lens (24-70mm or similar).
TASMAN VALLEY ROAD VIEW MOUNT COOK
Very close to the pullover mentioned above, this road view looks amazing on your mid range zoom also.
On the same stretch of highway it can get very busy with cars so please take care.
Photography info: This location is beautiful at sunrise with the first light hitting Mount Cook, and take your mid range zoom lens (24-70mm or similar).
2. LAKE PUKAKI MOUNT COOK SOUTH ISLAND NEW ZEALAND
On a calm day, Lake Pukaki is unmatched for capturing reflection photography, especially with the majestic Aoraki Mount Cook as its centerpiece. Even when the wind ripples the lake's surface, the beauty of Mount Cook at the center remains captivating especially against the bright turquoise blue glacial water.
LAKE PUKAKI VISITOR CENTRE MOUNT COOK
This particular viewpoint from the Visitor Centre Carpark is a great location to capture an iconic image of Mount Cook and if you are lucky some reflections on the lake.
Photography info: This spot is stunning at both at sunrise and sunset golden hours. Take your wide angle (16-35mm) and zoom lens (70-200mm) to capture different compositions of this scene.
LAKE PUKAKI MOUNT COOK VIEW
This spot along the Lake Pukaki shoreline near Lakestone Lodge is a great location to capture the shores of the lake and Mount Cook.
Photography info: Beautiful at both at sunrise and sunset golden hours, make sure you've got your wide angle and zoom lens with you to capture this incredible scene.
3. TASMAN LAKE TRACK & TASMAN GLACIER NEW ZEALAND
TASMAN LAKE RIVER VIEW MOUNT COOK
The Tasman Lake walk offers stunning views of the Tasman Glacier lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as close access to icebergs. A 25 minute hike from the parking lot leads to the perfect spot to marvel at sunrise reflections off the lakes surface. A few minutes after beginning the track from the carpark, at the fork take the path to the right for the Tasman River. This will lead you to the rivers edge (after a bit of a scramble over some rocks) and the best view of the Tasman Lake.
Photography info: Tasman Lake works best at sunrise for light and colour in the sky. Avoid the crowds and start the day early bringing with you your wide angle (16-35mm or similar) and zoom lens (70-200mm).
TASMAN GLACIER VIEWPOINT MOUNT COOK
The path to the Tasman Glacier viewpoint is relatively easy and only requires around 20 minutes of walking from the parking lot. A few minutes into the walk, take the path to the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint (to your left). There will be a few stairs to get up to the top but well worth the effort.
Photography info: This location is great for sunrise and bring your zoom lens so you can zoom right into the glacier with your composition.
MT COOK GLACIER GUIDES TASMAN GLACIER
Mt Cook Glacier Guiding offers an amazing once in a lifetime experience walking up on the Tasman Glacier.
This adventure is honestly one of the best I've experienced in Mount Cook National Park. The glacier and caves change every year but there is always something amazing to see.
For photography I would suggest your wide angle lens to capture the entire scene up there. The blues are absolutely incredible on the camera.
4. HOOKER VALLEY TRACK PHOTOS MOUNT COOK
I have written a complete guide on the Hooker Valley Track Mount Cook which I encourage you to read for all the information you'll need when it comes to photography.
The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular and easiest day walks you can do in Mount Cook National Park. The track is approximately 4km one way on an easy gradient (1 1/2 hours one way), and when you reach your destination you are standing at the foot of Hooker Lake and Mount Cook.
A few photo spots to note along the way include:
THE HOOKER HUT
HOOKER VALLEY SWING BRIDGES
HOOKER RIVER BOULDERS
HOOKEY VALLEY BOARDWALK
HOOKER LAKE
5. MOUNT COOK HELICOPTER / SCENIC FLIGHT
If you are able to slightly expand your budget, I strongly suggest considering a scenic flight over Mount Cook National Park and the Southern Alps. This opportunity truly offers a once in a lifetime experience.
I can personally recommend Mount Cook Ski Planes & Heli who are based at the Mount Cook Airport, and The Grand Traverse Flight with Air Safaris who are based in Tekapo. Both offer incredible flights in and around Mount Cook.
Photography info: Take your wide angle lens as well as a zoom lens for more abstract (river braid etc) imagery. Be sure to set a high ISO if you're going at up sunrise and a fast shutter speed (1/500 at least), then adjust your ISO as it gets lighter and the sun rises higher in the sky.
6. SEALY TARNS TRACK MOUNT COOK SOUTH ISLAND NEW ZEALAND
The Sealy Tarns track, located on the Sealy Range in Mount Cook National Park, leads to a pair of small alpine lakes that are amazing for reflection photography. Accessing the tarns involves a trail with a 1,300 metre climb and over 2,200 steps. Despite the challenging ascent, the stunning views make the effort worthwhile, especially the reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Sefton in the tarns.
The Sealy Tarns track forms part of the path leading to the Mueller Hut, a popular tramping hut in New Zealand. By continuing past the tarns and climbing another 600 metres, you will arrive at the renowned Mueller Hut.
Please be aware that during winter, the track is prone to significant avalanche risks, so always check the conditions before embarking on your journey.
Photography info: To fully capture the beauty of the scenery, I recommend bringing both a wide angle and a zoom lens, and shooting at sunrise or sunset golden hours.
7. MUELLER HUT TRACK MOUNT COOK IN NEW ZEALAND
As mentioned above, the Mueller Hut Track continues on from the Sealy Tarns which is at 1300 metres. This iconic trail, which starts at the White Horse Hill Campground, offers a challenging ascent through alpine meadows, rocky moraines, and glacier carved landscapes. As you climb, the panoramic views of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook, and the surrounding Southern Alps become increasingly spectacular.
Carry on past the tarns and climb another 600 metres you will arrive at the famous Mueller Hut, one of New Zealand's most popular tramping huts.
Mueller Hut, perched at an elevation of 1,800 meters (5,905 feet), can be booked for an overnight stay so that you can photograph both the sunset and the sunrise if you wanted to. It can be booked through Department of Conservation.
Photography info: The photo opportunities from up at the hut are endless and it's worth all the climbing for the views. Astrophotography is amazing at this spot and you can also climb nearby Mount Olivier for an even higher vantage point. Make sure you have a wide angle and zoom lens to make the most of the photography opportunities up there.
8. KEA POINT TRACK MOUNT COOK
The Kea Point Track in Mount Cook National Park is a great option for a short hike with panoramic views of New Zealand's tallest peak Aoraki Mount Cook.
The 1 hour round trip will take you from the White Horse Hill Campground parking lot to an expansive lookout point over Mount Cook and Mueller Lake.
Once you reach the viewpoint, you can take in the impressive views of Mueller Lake, the Hooker Valley, and Mount Cook itself.
Photography info: Kea Point is beautiful during golden hours especially at sunset, and it is perfect for astrophotography during the winter time. Take your wide angle and mid range zoom lens with you for this spot. If shooting astro don't forget your tripod!
9. MOUNT BLACKBURN TASMAN ROAD PHOTO
The Tasman Lake Road is an amazing location to take a photo of Mount Blackburn with the road lining up perfectly.
Please take care when setting up for this shot as it is the main road to Tasman Lake and can get very busy with cars. Always have a spotter and stay clear on oncoming traffic and from behind.
Photography info: Take your mid range zoom lens (24mm-200mm or similar). This location in particular looks incredible on your zoom lens and during golden hour just after sunrise and before sunset. It is also the perfect location for shooting the milkyway and astrophotography especially during the NZ winter months (June - August).
10. MOUNT SEFTON MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Mount Sefton is another incredible mountain in Mount Cook National Park that is absolutely worth photographing.
There is a roadside pullover on the Mount Cook Road (SH80) which is an amazing spot to take a photo of Mount Sefton just before you enter Mount Cook Village.
Mount Sefton also looks magical from the air and from the tussock fields on your way to Tasman Lake.
Please take care when setting up for the road shot as it is a main highway and can get very busy with cars.
Photography info: Mount Sefton is beautiful at sunrise with golden hour light hitting Mount Sefton. Take your mid range zoom lens (24-70mm or similar).
Thanks for taking to time to read my Complete Photo Guide to Mount Cook South Island New Zealand. I hope it inspires you to come to New Zealand and explore Mount Cook National Park sometime soon.
If you are interested in prints of any of the New Zealand Landscape Photography seen in this blog, please feel free to head on over to my New Zealand Photography Print Store and have a little look around.