Discover Aoraki/Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo

1. Twizel & High Country Salmon Farm

We always stop at the High Country Salmon Farm for fresh sashimi and salmon pies — it’s right on the canal and a perfect lunch spot with easy parking for campers.

Plus, it’s a great base for stocking up on supplies or staying overnight before heading deeper into the park.

2. Lindis Pass – The Gateway to the Mackenzie Country

If you’ve ever driven through the Lindis Pass, you’ll know exactly what we mean when we say: it feels like you’re driving through another world.

As New Zealanders who’ve travelled through here multiple times, we still get a little thrill each time we crest that winding summit and look out over the golden tussock-covered hills rolling endlessly into the distance.

What makes Lindis Pass so special isn’t just the scenery — it’s how suddenly it appears. One minute you’re winding your way out of Central Otago, and the next you’re climbing into alpine wilderness that feels completely untouched.

We pull over at the Lindis Pass lookout more than once — just to stretch our legs and take it all in. In winter, the landscape can be dusted in snow, and in summer, it glows in rich, honey-toned hues. The contrast is so different.

And honestly? This is one of those places that tour buses barely stop for. That’s the magic of travelling with your own rental car or campervan — you can pause here, breathe in the crisp air, and have that moment all to yourself.

3. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Of course, we have to begin with the star of the show — Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak.
The mountain is more than just a scenic backdrop. It's part of Māori legend and a sacred site. We've done the drive into Mount Cook village many times, and the way the peak looms closer with every kilometre never gets old.

With your own campervan, you'll have total control over your schedule — trust us, this place deserves more than a quick tour stop.

Travel time from Queenstown to Mt Cook/Aoraki without any stops is 3 hours 20 minutes.

4. Hooker Valley Track

Next up: one of the most accessible alpine hikes in the country — and one we return to again and again.
The Hooker Valley Track is a 3-hour return walk, with swing bridges, glacier-fed rivers, and a lake full of floating icebergs at the end. You don’t have to do it all, a short distance into the walk is  just as good.

It’s perfect for travellers in a rental camper or car, because you can arrive early (to beat the crowds) or late (for golden hour). We’ve done both, and it’s magical every time.

5. Tasman Glacier & Blue Lakes

Just a short drive from Mount Cook Village, the Tasman Glacier area offers a completely different experience.
You can take a short walk to the glacier view, or opt for a boat tour on the terminal lake — where you’ll float past actual icebergs.

Having a vehicle means you can explore the lesser-known Blue Lakes Track too, which gives you peaceful views and fewer people.

6. Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

For a dose of history and inspiration, this museum and planetarium is well worth the visit.
Named after the Kiwi legend himself, it showcases Sir Ed’s climbs, Antarctic expeditions, and his deep ties to Mount Cook.

It’s a great indoor option if the weather closes in — another reason having your own camper or car is handy. You can easily adjust your day, just like we’ve done during rainy spells.

7. Lake Pukaki Lookout

As you leave or arrive into the Mount Cook region, make time to stop at Lake Pukaki — the water here is unreal.
The milky turquoise colour comes from glacial flour suspended in the lake, and with Aoraki rising at the far end, it’s postcard-perfect.

We pull over here for picnics from the camper, coffee breaks, and photo shoots. The freedom to stop on a whim? That’s the joy of having your own wheels.

8. Lake Tekapo & The Church of the Good Shepherd

Shifting gears slightly, Lake Tekapo is just an hour or so from Mount Cook and offers a whole new vibe.
One of the most photographed spots in the country is the Church of the Good Shepherd, perched beside the lake with snow-capped peaks in the background.

Whether you’re visiting in summer (hello, lupins!) or winter (snowy magic), we have always found this place awe-inspiring whatever the time of day.

9. Tekapo Springs

After days of hiking and driving, there’s nothing better than soaking in hot pools overlooking a turquoise lake.
Tekapo Springs has thermal pools, a day spa, and even a snow tubing park in winter. We’ve parked up, changed out of hiking boots, and melted into the pools more than once.

Being able to travel at your own pace makes experiences like this even more enjoyable — no bus timetable to worry about!

10. Dark Sky Reserve & Mt John Observatory

Did you know the Mackenzie region is one of the best places in the world for stargazing?
Mt John Observatory, just above Tekapo, offers night tours that will blow your mind. We saw Saturn's rings here — through a telescope!

In your own rental vehicle, you can drive up to the summit for daytime coffee at the Astro Café or return at night for a guided star tour.

11. Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail

For the active traveller, this long-distance bike trail begins right at the foot of Mount Cook and winds through the entire region.
We haven’t done the full thing (yet!), but even short segments — like from Lake Pukaki to Twizel — are easy day rides if you’ve got your own gear.

With a rented Campervan or Motorhome, you can carry your bikes, gear, and stop wherever suits your pace.

Why Travel Tekapo & Mount Cook with Your Own Vehicle?

As New Zealanders who’ve explored this area firsthand, we can confidently say that the freedom to stop, stay longer, or take the scenic route is what makes this region so special.

• Compare rental Motorhomes/Campervans
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• Find the best deals with local support.
• Travel your own way, without compromise.

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