Top Aoraki Mount Cook (Mount Cook Village) Nature and Wildlife

Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you explore the majestic peaks and awe-inspiring valleys surrounding Aoraki / Mount Cook. Fly over the lower Tasman Glacier and soar above the Liebig mountain range, taking in the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. Make an alpine landing to take in the breathtaking panoramic views.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park on this unforgettable small-group adventure from Queenstown. Travel through spectacular South Island landscapes as your knowledgeable guide shares stories and insights along the way. Journey through dramatic alpine scenery including the rugged Kawarau Gorge and the sweeping views of Lindis Pass, with scenic stops at iconic locations such as the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. You may also visit local favourites like High Country Salmon and seasonal fruit stalls. At Mt Cook National Park, enjoy free time to explore this remarkable alpine environment. Walk to the Tasman Glacier lookout for panoramic views of New Zealand’s largest glacier, glacial lakes, and towering peaks. NOTE: The Hooker Valley Track is currently closed beyond Müller Lookout while the Department of Conservation replaces one of the bridges. This section still offers beautiful views, with the full track expected to reopen in Autumn 2026.

Hover above the Southern Alps on a spectacular helicopter ride that lets you see places you couldn’t otherwise access without expert mountaineering skills. Glide over Aoraki Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, and down the Tasman Glacier, then over to the West Coast for a glimpse of the famous Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Learn more about the mountains via helpful commentary from your pilot.

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps, the Twizel Petting Zoo offers a unique and interactive experience for animal lovers of all ages. Step into our peaceful farm environment and meet our incredibly friendly locals! From fluffy alpacas and curious sheep to gentle Tahr goat and gorgeous horses, our animals are waiting to be close to you. We provide a pack of feed so you can hand-feed your new furry friends. More than just a petting zoo, we are a place of connection and education, fostering a love for animals and the rural way of life. It’s the perfect stop to stretch your legs, enjoy a hands-on adventure, and create those special holiday moments. Our farm animals are very friendly so you can get great pictures with each of them.

Mt Cook to Christchurch Small Group Tour Via Lake Tekapo (1 way), this small group, fully-guided transfer means you can travel in style while seeing all the key highlights along the way. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety. While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complimentary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.