Plenty To See And Do In Mt Aspiring National Park

New Zealand is blessed with some of the worlds most incredible scenery and locations, many of which hold such significance that they are encapsulated under the protection of a national park. There are 14 national parks in New Zealand which are administered by the Department of Conservation which is charged with ensuring the protection of the natural and historic heritage.

One of these stunning and scenic locations in New Zealand, situated in the South Island is Mt Aspiring National Park. Established in 1964 it was the tenth location to be secured as a national park. Located at the southern end of the Southern Alps, and directly west of Lake Wanaka, the park is approximately 3,500 square kilometres in size.

There are a wonderful array of things to do and see in Mt Aspiring, and these are outlined below:

Snow Based Activities

Of course, the snow is a major draw card for all visiting this part of the country. The local ski field has skiing for levels and abilities, and if you are into adventure you can chose to go heli-skiing where you push your boundaries and do a bit of thrill seeking, or you can simply just do a bit of snowman building or have a snow ball fight. There’s easy access to the ski field from your Lake Wanaka accommodation.

The Great Outdoors

If you love getting out in the great outdoors the park has numerous tracks and recreational areas for exporing, picnicking, and taking in some of the incredible scenery. You can also do rock climbing and abseiling. Don’t forget to pack a camera so you can capture some of the awe inspiring views.

Hiking

Mt Aspiring is home to some wonderful hiking tracks among them it’s most well known is The Routeburn Track. It’s 32 kilometres long and the traverse generally starts on the Queenstown side of the Southern Alps and finishes on the Te Anau side. There are shelters and huts along the route and camping is allowed, however, unless it is an emergency booking accommodation along the route is essential due to it’s popularity.

Water Based Activities

Whilst the alpine lakes are a little chilly for swimming, you still enjoy the regions rivers and lakes by kayaking, canoeing, and waterskiing, or a thrill seeking ride on a jet boat. Additionally if one of New Zealand’s most favourite pastimes appeals to you then a day spent fishing might well be on your ‘to do’ list, and you’ll be able to enjoy cooking your freshly caught bounty at your Lake Wanaka accommodation.