Let’s care for Aoraki this summer

Date:  20 December 2024

More than 100,000 people visited the Hooker Valley Track, the national park’s most popular attraction, in the 2023/24 financial year. We predict this season will match or exceed those numbers, says DOC Aoraki/Mount Cook Operations Manager Sally Jones.

“With high visitor numbers – it becomes even more vital people show respect for the park and other visitors.

“DOC encourages visitors to arrive early if they can and asks people to park considerately and share tracks with others. Mueller and Hooker huts and the White Horse Hill Campground are already heavily booked for the summer.

“Staff have been busy preparing our facilities like tracks, huts, and carparks for the summer season. Visitors must also play a part to care for this place and make sure everyone has a great experience.

“We’re adding 12 temporary toilets at the White Horse Hill car park, alongside the six permanent toilets located there. We’re also hiring extra summer staff to help upkeep facilities and make sure people are behaving appropriately."

Sally Jones says in the past we’ve seen cars parked a long way down the road on both sides when the car park is full.

“We know the car park doesn’t keep up with demand on busy days and we’re working on ways to better manage this.

“There will be a paid parking trial here next summer to help manage visitor pressure. We're planning the details at the moment and will share info like prices when we can.

“It’s fantastic that people want to enjoy this special place, and we look forward to welcoming visitors this season.”

Do your bit to care for Aoraki

• Consider quieter times - data shows Hooker Valley Track is most popular between 10 am and 4 pm. We recommend making the most of the longer days and visit outside of peak times if your schedule allows. Visiting outside of holiday periods and weekends will also provide a quieter experience.
• Treat our friendly rangers with respect - they work hard to keep facilities up to scratch and are happy to give some advice to visitors.
• Plan and prepare – check weather and track conditions before heading out. Be prepared for changeable alpine weather, as it can go from scorching sun to wet and cold in the same day. As well as sunscreen and plenty of water, take some warm and waterproof clothing, even if you’re just out for a day walk.
• Always use the toilets provided - visitors can expect the toilets to be busy during peak hours on fine days. We recommend using the loos before you head out.
• Park considerately – don’t take up more room than needed and, when White Horse Car Park is full, only use the designated side of the road to reduce congestion and make it safer for walkers and cyclists, while leaving space for emergency vehicles.
• Share the space and facilities with other visitors and move past people respectfully on the track.
• Leave drones behind - they aren’t allowed in the national park. Drones disturb the natural quiet of the area, negatively impact wildlife like kea, and can pose serious safety risks.
• Take your rubbish with you including food scraps.

Never bring dogs or other pets to New Zealand’s national parks, including at the White Horse Hill car park and campground. Pets are not permitted and pose a significant risk to native wildlife.

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