During Spring (November - December) the famous Mount Cook Road (SH80) is just one of locations where you might find lupins growing on the side of the road with a view of the mountains as well.

Although the lupin locations can vary from year to year, if you keep your eyes open while travelling down to Mount Cook Village you might be able to find a beautiful Mount Cook lupin photo with Aoraki in the background!

Please take care when setting up for these kind of shots 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.

This roadside pullover on the Mount Cook Road (SH80) is just one of the many stops you can make to take a photo of Mount Cook on your drive into the park. This location in particular looks amazing on your mid range zoom lens taking in the landscape of Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains and 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 take your mid range zoom lens (24-70mm or similar) for this one.

This roadside pullover on the Mount Cook Road (SH80) is just one of the many stops you can make to take a photo of Mount Cook on your drive into the park. This location in particular looks amazing on your mid range zoom lens taking in the landscape of Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains and 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 take your mid range zoom lens (24-70mm or similar) for this one.

Located in the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Mount Cook Lodge is the perfect destination for your next adventure. This lodge offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget, with stylish rooms and breathtaking views to enjoy. Some rooms offer king beds or split kings as well as tea and coffee facilities, TVs and Wifi access, making each stay comfortable and convenient. The Chamois Bar & Grill onsite provides fine dining experiences, whilst the premium village view rooms offer hillside views to take in the beauty of the valley. Whether looking to escape for a weekend or an extended stay, Mount Cook Lodge is the perfect gateway to a unique experience.

The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect destination for any traveler looking for comfort and convenience. From its well-appointed guest rooms to its excellent amenities, the hotel offers a truly memorable experience. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal in the on-site restaurant, take advantage of the 24-hour fitness and business centers, or simply relax in the lobby with friends and family. The welcoming staff is always ready to provide top quality service and create an enjoyable stay. With its convenient location, modern facilities, and beautiful atmosphere, The Hermitage Hotel is sure to make your stay comfortable and unforgettable.

White Horse Hill Campsite, located within the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, provides campers with amazing alpine scenery and lots of walking and tramping activities. This standard campsite offers 60 non-powered/tent sites, a shelter for cooking, and flushing toilets providing visitors with basic comforts and facilities. Prices vary from Jun - Dec and Dec - Feb and there is a 10% service fee if booking in person. Dogs are not permitted, however the nearby village has access to shops and restaurants if needed. With this campsite being accessible through car or campervan, guests have the chance for some breathtaking views which will surely leave them in awe.

Unfortunately the Hooker Valley Track is closed from first swing bridge

Foot access is still possible to the Mueller Lake Lookout just before the first bridge.

DOC hope to re-open the track after the construction of the new second bridge, which is expected to be finished by autumn 2026.

https://www.doc.govt.nz/hooker-valley-track

The Hooker Valley Track during Spring is even more special when the rare and New Zealand native Mount Cook Buttercup is in flower. This is one of the most beautiful flowers and there is usually an opportunity to photograph it with Mount Cook in the background. Please be extra careful not to touch, disturb or damage any of the flowers.

The Hooker Valley 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. Enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Cook the entire way, and many photo opportunities including the Hooker River, Mount Sefton, Mueller Lake and Hooker Lake. I highly recommend this one if you want to be right in amongst the mountains but don't want to work too hard for it.

Take your wide angle and zoom lens with you and if you want the best light I would suggest going at goldens hours around sunset and sunrise.

With an easy gradient suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, visitors can pass three swing bridges and two lookouts on the 10 km walk to Hooker Lake. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing and watch out for warnings during fast weather changes that may lead to occasional track closures.