On the larger of the two islands of New Zealand (the South Islands), the highest mountain of the country rises - Mount Cook. Having 3,754 meters, Mount Cook is a top destination for all the nature lovers, especially for the climbers. The mountain is part of the alpine park, called after the mountain itself. This, along with the Westland National Park represent a United Nations World Heritage Park. The Mount Cook Park comprises of more than 140 peaks over 2,000 meters high and about 72 glaciers.
The structure of the mountain is divided intro three major parts: the Low Peak, Middle Peak and the High Peak. The imaginary line connecting these peaks are dividing the main glacier forms one can find in the area: The Tasman Glacier and the Hooker Glacier. The first one is 29 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide and it has a depth of about 600 meters. The latter is just 11 kilometers long, but it is the source of the Hooker River, that flows into the Tasman River, the main point of supply of the Pukaki Lake.
When seeing Lake Pukaki, you realize the astonishing power and the delightful work of nature. With it’s unique turquoise color, covering 169 sq km, Lake Pukaki is a unique view in this part of the world. Due to the lake, Aoraki can be viewed from more than 70 kilometers, from the southern shore of the lake.
Fauna and vegetation are present in many forms, due to the differences of altitude, temperatures and weather. Endangered or fragile types of plants like the yellow mountain buttercup or other alpine buttercups can be found in the forests around the mountain. Also, more than thirty species of birds have been recorded in the park and 15 more were registered as living in the alpine area.
Mount Cook and the surroundings are practicing an immense cultural and natural attraction over the tourists. The scenic majesty of the area can create fans of climbing, skiing, walking, flying or just sitting. With its unique sights, Aoraki is like a piece of heaven dropped on earth.
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HotelClub Travel Blog is where the weird, the wacky and the wonderful world of travel comes together. You will find posts on green/environmentally friendly travel ideas, interesting and obscure destinations and hotels as well as posts about the cultural side of travel. We also feature 
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