A complete guide to Mount Aspiring National Park

A complete guide to Mount Aspiring National Park

Mt Aspiring National Park is a hiking lover's paradise, with abundant trails right on Lake Wanaka's doorstep. Considered the most pristine and untouched National Park in New Zealand, Mount Aspiring calls out to those who love adventure and the great outdoors.

Ready to pack your bags, lace up your boots, and hit the road? Here are some of the most popular things to do to enjoy this incredible alpine destination.

Why should you visit?

This park is a wonderland of mountains, hiking trails, glacial rivers, and alpine goodness. Known to hikers from near and afar, adventure is always there, wherever you decide to camp for the night. With options of multi-day hiking, short day hikes, and even meanders through the forests, there is a trail for all. We promise there is more to Mount Aspiring than hiking. Mt Aspiring National Park is a must-visit for everyone. You can fly, jetboat, ski, canyon, or relax by alpine lakes. The town of Wanaka is close by, so popping in and out of civilisation is easy. You could even spend a night or two there, with our roundup of the best Wanaka camping grounds!

When to go?

Is there ever a wrong time to visit mountains, lakes, and rivers in New Zealand? If you are solar-powered, summer is the perfect time to explore, hike and move around the national park. The summer hiking season typically runs from November to April and the winter months are from late May to early October. Although the landscape is dreamy in winter, it is reserved for those with alpine and backcountry experience.

What to do?

Situated in the southern end of the alps on the South Island of New Zealand, Mt Aspiring is an adventure lover's dream. Home to 100 permanent glaciers, the bluest waters, and towering peaks, you will need to book in some time to discover the natural goodness on offer here.

Hike

Enjoy longer multi-day hikes through the stunning valleys with options to tick off Kiwi icons, including the Routeburn track, Dart-Ree's river circuit, or tackle Gillespie's Pass. If multi-day isn't your jam, then head down to the blue pools, a 30-minute loop leading to swing bridges over crystal clear waters. Travel down the dirt roads to tick off Rob Roy Glacier or park in Makarora and explore the local short trails.

Jetboat

Jetboating is Kiwi-as and worth a mention. The Wilkin river jetboats are an adventure for all. Zoom through the clear waters of the Wilkin River, surrounded by incredible mountains and beautiful vistas. Listen close as the skilled driver teaches all you need to know about the environment. Combine the trip with a short valley walk to tick all the boxes.

Explore Siberia

Start your experience in Makarora, jump in a helicopter and soar over the Southern Alps in style. You will land in the remote Siberia Valley for a three-hour walk through native bush and rugged terrain. Rendezvous at the Wilkin River, where a jet boat transfer will be there to greet you.

Clock up the verts in winter

If winter is your preferred season for adventure, then be sure to get involved in the best activity of the season. From first-timers to those wanting to clock up maximum vertical km, heli-skiing is the ultimate adrenaline rush for snow seekers. Explore the region at a high altitude and score the most significant tick on your NZ bucket list.

Where to stay?

Wanaka – Glendhu Bay

Wanaka takes the cake when it comes down to lake-side accommodation. Glendhu Bay campground is the sweetest spot on the south, with pitches backing onto the water for maximum views and ultimate relaxation. Just a ten-minute drive from Wanaka, close to Roy's Peak, Treble Cone ski area, and the gateway to the world heritage Mount Aspiring National Park.

Powered and unpowered sites are available, with shower blocks, kitchen quarters, and plenty of room for the kids to run around. An excellent spot for all.

Prices start at $44 per pitch.

Pleasant Flat Campsite

Pleasant Flat is a Department of Conservation campsite suitable for self-contained vehicles. Wake up to magnificent views of Mt Hooker from the comfort of your van. Fish in the nearby Haast River or enjoy short walks and relaxation in the wilderness. Be sure to book online in the summer and bring everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Prices start at $8 per person.

Mt Aspiring Holiday Park

Look no further than the Mt Aspiring Holiday Park if searching for a home base. Hike, jetboat, and explore right from the doorstep. This park is an excellent place for a multi-night stay, with a full amenities block, kitchen, and space to unwind.

Prices start at $45 per night.

Stretch your legs, explore until your heart is content in this beautiful wilderness, and be sure to pack the cameras for this unforgettable adventure. Search for vans in the South Island on Camplify today.

Learn more about camping in National Parks in NZ .