3,724 m
Elevation
3,724 m
Prominence
Coordinates
1894 — Tom Fyfe, George Graham, Jack Clarke
First Ascent
About Aoraki / Mount Cook
New Zealand's highest peak and a serious mountaineering objective. The 1991 rock avalanche reduced the summit height by 10 m. Ed Hillary trained here before Everest.
Climbing Aoraki / Mount Cook: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 2–3 days including an approach and a hut or bivouac
- Do you need a guide?
- Strongly recommended unless you are an experienced alpinist. Glacier travel, altitude or remoteness make an unguided attempt serious.
- Best season
- Usually November to March.
- Terrain & gear
- Glacier, snow or sustained technical rock at altitude. Crampons, ice axe, harness, rope and glacier-rescue gear plus warm layers and a helmet.
Note: Technical alpine climbing, glaciated
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in New Zealand?
The highest mountain in New Zealand is Aoraki / Mount Cook, at 3,724 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Aoraki / Mount Cook?
Allow 2–3 days including an approach and a hut or bivouac. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Aoraki / Mount Cook without a guide?
Strongly recommended unless you are an experienced alpinist. Glacier travel, altitude or remoteness make an unguided attempt serious.
When is the best time to climb Aoraki / Mount Cook?
The usual season is November to March. Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Aoraki / Mount Cook?
Crampons, ice axe, harness, rope and glacier-rescue gear plus warm layers and a helmet.
How high is Aoraki / Mount Cook?
Aoraki / Mount Cook stands at 3,724 meters (12,218 feet).
Where is Aoraki / Mount Cook located?
Aoraki / Mount Cook is located in New Zealand, within the Southern Alps.
Has Martin climbed Aoraki / Mount Cook?
Not yet — Aoraki / Mount Cook is still on Martin's list of remaining country highpoints.
Nearby highpoints of similar height
Highpointing lists to explore
Climbed Aoraki / Mount Cook? Add it to your tick list
Log the summits you've climbed, build bucket lists, follow other adventurers and watch your country count grow. Free, and built by adventurers for adventurers.
- Tick ascents with dates & photos
- Track challenge lists & goals
- Follow adventurers, share trips