Mt Aspiring National Park

Mt Aspiring National Park is a pristine wilderness of towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and alpine valleys, part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a paradise for hikers and climbers, with the iconic Mt Aspiring/Tititea (3,033 m) as its centerpiece. The park offers dramatic landscapes from the braided rivers of the Matukituki Valley to the remote glaciers of the Olivine Range.

Highlights & What to See

• Mt Aspiring/Tititea: New Zealand's highest peak outside Aoraki/Mt Cook, a challenging but rewarding climb for experienced mountaineers.
• Rob Roy Glacier Track: A stunning day hike through beech forest to a viewpoint overlooking the Rob Roy Glacier, with frequent avalanches and waterfalls.
• Matukituki Valley: The main gateway to the park, offering easy walks, camping, and access to the West Matukituki and East Matukituki tracks.
• Gillespie Pass Circuit: A multi-day tramp through the heart of the park, crossing alpine passes and valleys with spectacular views.
• Dart River / Te Awa Whakatipu: Known for jet boat rides and the Dart Track, a challenging tramp through remote wilderness.
• Lake Wanaka & Lake Hāwea: These glacial lakes form the park's eastern boundary, offering water activities and scenic drives.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two to three days to explore the park properly. A single day allows for a short hike like the Rob Roy Glacier Track, but to experience the backcountry, plan for a multi-day tramp. If you're short on time, a scenic flight from Wanaka provides a spectacular overview in just an hour.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka: The adventure hub and main base for park access, with great cafes, galleries, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Queenstown: A 1.5-hour drive south, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, and vibrant nightlife.
• Glenorchy: At the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, a gateway to the Dart Valley and Routeburn Track.
• Haast Pass: The scenic route to the West Coast, passing waterfalls, rainforests, and the Blue Pools.
• Fiordland National Park: About two hours south, home to Milford Sound and the Kepler Track.

Please check official sources for current details.