Mt Aspiring National Park, the third largest in New Zealand, stretches from the tangled rainforests of Fiordland, across braided river valleys and alpine meadows to the heavily glaciated Southern Alps. Its size and setting, straddling the Southern Alps, ensure a diverse range of habitats and an extensive area of true wilderness, difficult to access by foot. Set within the Te Waahi Pounamu South Westland New Zealand World Heritage Area, it is one of the most spectacular pristine wilderness areas anywhere.

Set within the Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, this is one of the most spectacular pristine wilderness areas anywhere in the world.

The pinnacle of the park is Mt Aspiring, named Tititea ‘the glistening mountain’ by Maori. Rising elegantly from its flanking glaciers to 3027m, Mt Aspiring is the highest peak outside the Mt Cook region. Its pyramid form (often compared to the Matterhorn) is much loved by local and international climbers, and by photographers.

The south face of Mt Aspiring can be seen, on a clear day, from Glendhu Bay ten minutes drive from Wanaka.

You don’t have to be a mountaineer to enjoy the delights of the park (although there are many local guides to accompany you to the top). A well maintained network of walking tracks traverse the park, offering trips from two hours to two weeks in length. T

The closest access to the Park is via the Matukituki Valley, continuing on the road past Glendhu Bay. Although unsealed for much of its length the road is in good condition and suitable for 2WD vehicles. For detailed information on walks within the park, visit the Department of Conservation Area Office on Ardmore Street.

Many gentle walking tracks meander through its open valleys or you can fly overhead and gaze down on golden river flats, forested ridges and spilling glaciers.

A selection of  walks and tramps the park has to offer is detailed here for you to view

Local Scenic Walks
Regional Short Walks
Longer Walks and Tramps

For more details on these walks and further information please contact:
Department of Conservation, Lake Wanaka Area Office, PO Box 93, Lake Wanaka, New Zealand.
Ph 64 3 443 7660 Fax 64 3 443 8777 Email: mtaspiringvc@doc.govt.nz