A Place That Pulls You In

If you follow us on Instagram, you know how excited we get over seeing new places! But Mount Cook National Park is the kind of place that takes our breath away every single time we visit. It’s the perfect location for an adventure elopement, offering stunning scenery, incredible experiences, and so much more.

Even our favourite photos don’t do this magical place justice. And the highest pitches of our voices can’t reach how our hearts feel about this beautiful location! It may be hard to express how wonderful Mount Cook National Park is through words and images alone, but we’ll do our best in this blog post. We want rad couples just like YOU to know how amazing it is to elope here. There is so much to do and see. It is truly a choose-your-own-adventure experience that you can keep coming back to. So, even after you elope, you’ll want to start planning your next holiday!

If you’re thinking about eloping in New Zealand, and especially if you love a sense of adventure, Mount Cook is where the magic happens.

This isn’t just a blog. It’s a heartfelt guide to planning a meaningful, joy-filled elopement in Mount Cook National Park – covering how to get here, where to stay, what time of year to visit, and how to make the most of this incredible alpine landscape. We’ll also share some of our favourite photo locations and insider tips to help you feel prepared, inspired, and grounded in the moment.

Let’s dive in and discover everything Mount Cook National Park has to offer adventurous couples in love.

Where is Mount Cook National Park?

What is officially known as Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is located in the central part of the South Island of New Zealand. Mount Cook Village sits within the park, and Twizel is the nearest town.

Fun fact: Standing at 3,754 meters (12,316 feet), Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Another fun fact: Sir Edmund Hillary (a famous mountaineer) used Mount Cook as his climbing training ground before he conquered Mount Everest!

How to Get to Mount Cook National Park

There may be only one way in and out of the park, but it’s one of the most beautiful drives you’ll ever take! But we’re getting ahead of ourselves here. Assuming you’re flying in from overseas, the nearest international airport is Queenstown Airport, a three-hour drive from Mount Cook National Park. And, like we said, the drive down Highway 80 is incredible. Even for locals like us!

Imagine this scenario: You’re driving and see looming mountains in the distance. They’re gorgeous, of course, but that’s not even the awe-inspiring moment! As you turn, Lake Pukaki comes into view, and everything becomes unreal. The blue lake literally reflects in the sky. Now you know you’re in for a treat!

Why An Elopement Adventure in Mount Cook National Park? We’re Glad You Asked!

Where do we even start?! Okay, Mount Cook isn’t just any backdrop—it’s the backdrop. It’s vast, wild, and full of soul. And for us, it’s deeply personal. This is where we (Sirjana & Ben) chose to elope, and every time we return to photograph another couple’s story here, it feels like coming home to something sacred.
Here’s why Mount Cook is one of the best elopement destinations in New Zealand, whether you’re after an epic adventure or a slow, emotional experience tucked into the landscapes!

Some other epic reasons you’ll LOVE planning your adventure elopement in Mount Cook National Park:

A Landscape That Shifts with Every Step

Mount Cook National Park is a mosaic of pristine lakes, snow-dusted peaks, rocky ridges, ancient glaciers, winding trails, and windswept plains. You don’t have to hike for hours to reach beautiful spots—some of the best views are right off the road. Want to keep it simple? Done. Want to heli to a glacier? Also done.

We’re talking cinematic vistas at every turn, from glacier-fed lakes like Pukaki and Tasman, to alpine valleys that feel like something out of Jurassic Park. And all this makes for excellent drone photos.

Weather-Proof Magic

Mount Cook is stunning in every kind of weather. Mist, wind, cloud, or sunshine—it all adds to the drama and emotion of your elopement. One of the best parts? The park has several deep valleys, each with its own microclimate. If one area is covered in fog or rain, we can often shift to another that’s clearer. That kind of flexibility lets you lean into the day with trust, knowing there’s always a beautiful option waiting.

Vast and Remote

Mount Cook National Park is wild and wide open. Even in the busy season, we can always find places that feel completely untouched. There are quiet trails, hidden valleys, and big skies where you can read your vows with no one else around.

This kind of space lets you slow down and fully take in the moment. While glacier landings are an option, the real magic tends to happen in the stillness of places that feel like they were waiting just for you.

Glacier Landings & Helicopter Access

Mount Cook National Park is one of the few places where you can land on a glacier for your elopement photos. Standing on ancient ice surrounded by vast glaciers and stunning ice caves creates a truly unforgettable backdrop. While helicopter landings can sometimes coincide with others nearby, the experience of exploring the sculpted ice formations and shimmering blue caves is unlike anywhere else. Plus, you can have breathtaking views of Aoraki / Mount Cook itself as a dramatic presence in your photos.

Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Friendly – Accessiblity at Mount Cook National Park

One of our favourite things about this landscape is how inclusive it is. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or prefer to stay close to the car, there are options that fit every comfort level without losing the incredible views. From easy walks like the Hooker Valley Track to more off-the-beaten-path routes, we’ll guide you based on what feels right for you. The scenery is epic no matter your skill level, whether you choose to take it slow or climb higher. Honestly, it feels like Jurassic Park at every turn.

The Dark Sky Reserve: Night Photos That Feel Unreal

Mount Cook sits within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, one of the clearest stargazing locations on Earth. That means no light pollution, just a sky full of stars so vivid it’ll take your breath away. If you’re dreaming of night portraits or vow moments under the Milky Way, this is the place to do it. It’s like looking at a billion diamonds sparkling against black velvet.

Where to Stay in Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is surrounded by options that range from iconic alpine lodges to off-the-grid cabins. Each choice has its own charm—and strategic value on your elopement day.

Interestingly, over 1 million visitors explored Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in 2019, which underscores how popular the area is for both tourists and special events. At the same time, The Hermitage Hotel and its complex offer just 164 hotel rooms, making advance booking essential if you want to stay close to the action. 

Think of lodging here like front-row seats at an intimate theatre — the view is unforgettable, but the best spots fill up early.

Aoraki / Mount Cook Village – Stay Amidst the Peaks

When waking up right inside the park matters most, Mount Cook Village is your base. You’ll be steps from notable trails like Hooker Valley Track and Sealy Tarns.

Top Lodging Options

• The Hermitage Hotel – The iconic alpine hotel inside the park with 164 rooms, glacier views, and on-site dining and amenities. Hermitage Hotel gives you an all-inclusive experience that puts you right on the doorstep of Mt. Cook. Our top tip: book a room on the top floor. You’ll have a room-sized window with the mountain as your view. Just imagine: You pull back the curtains in the morning, and you’re greeted by the sun shining its beams on Mt. Cook like a fire god! The view is so powerful that even if you’re anxious or scared, it will melt it all away. (We know from experience!) Also, the food here is SO GOOD, which is a blessing because no restaurants are open in the area past 6 p.m. The hotel’s kitchen and bar are the only places available. Lucky you!
• Mount Cook Lodge – 59 lodge-style rooms offering a relaxed vibe close to trails .
• Mount Cook Motels – 32 self-contained units ideal for privacy and practical needs

Why Choose It
Stay here and eliminate drive time on your elopement day. You get stunning alpine vistas, immediate access to trails, and night skies perfect for stargazing.

Twizel and Lake Pūkaki

About 65 km (45 minutes) from Mount Cook Village, Twizel and Lake Pukaki offer a wider range of accommodations—lakefront Airbnbs, boutique lodges, cozy guesthouses. Twizel is a small alpine town has a relaxed energy, wide skies, and great accommodation options. It gives you quick access to both Lake Pūkaki and the Ben Ōhau Range, plus it tends to have clearer weather than the National Park.

There are some amazing Airbnbs here that provide starry nights and tranquil sleep. The other benefit is that it’s midway between Lake Tekapo and Mt. Cook, so it doesn’t feel like a chore if you’re driving back at night. OH! And it’s near Lake Pukaki, which is where we started our elopement day – and for a reason! Lake Pukaki’s colour is basically like blue Gatorade. It’s crystal clear, super intense, and a total must-see!!

Ashley Mackenzie Villa (Lake Pukaki)

This villa features ample light, a great backdrop for getting ready, and a hot tub where you can end the elopement journey under the stars. Let’s not forget the stunning views you’ll look at as you lie in bed together and say, “Is this our life?!” You’ll also get to enjoy a three-course meal each day, including a nibbles platter prepared by their private chef and brought to your villa for private dining.

⭐ Matuka Luxury Lodge (Lake Pūkaki, near Twizel)

This 5-star lodge sits just 3.5 km from Twizel, on the edge of Lake Pūkaki with sweeping views of the Southern Alps and Aoraki / Mount Cook. Every room faces north toward the mountain range, and the lodge features a tranquil trout pond, timber decks, and full breakfasts served daily. The décor blends antique and contemporary touches, creating a refined yet relaxed vibe. 

Why we love it:

• Hosts are warm and detail-oriented, offering personalized service throughout your stay
• Unobstructed views of Mount Cook right from your deck
• Peaceful, private setting while still close to Twizel amenities

Lakestone Lodge (Lake Pūkaki Shoreline)

Lakestone Lodge combines elegant design with immersive nature. Perched at the southern end of Lake Pūkaki, each of the six guest rooms offers floor‑to‑ceiling windows overlooking turquoise water and mountain peaks. Bathrooms include soaking tubs with views, and guests enjoy farm-to-table meals, massage treatments, complimentary EBikes, and a dedicated helipad.

Bonus features:

• Night Sky Experience included with packages
• Perfect for romantic retreats and dramatic sunrise or sunset portraits
• Ideal balance of luxury and proximity to Mt Cook locations

Ben Ōhau – Wild Beauty & Quiet Luxury

Nestled near Twizel and Lake Pūkaki, the Ben Ōhau area offers a spectacular mix of rugged landscapes and peaceful retreats. The sweeping tussock plains and majestic mountain backdrops create a perfect setting to unwind before or after your elopement day.

Here are two standout places we love recommending:

The Rise Ben Ōhau

This boutique lodge is a peaceful sanctuary perched at the foothills of the Ben Ōhau Range. With spacious, light-filled rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows framing the mountains, and outdoor spaces designed to soak in the landscape, it’s a serene base for couples who want comfort wrapped in nature’s embrace. The Rise blends luxury with a genuine connection to the land.
therisebenohau.co.nz

Skylark Cabin

If you’re after rustic charm with a touch of modern comfort, Skylark Cabin is an intimate hideaway surrounded by native trees and open skies. The wood-fired hot tub and cozy indoor fireplace make it perfect for relaxing after an adventurous day of photos and vows. Stargazing here feels like a private show, far from any city lights.
skylarkcabin.co.nz

Lake Tekapo – Better Weather and Diverse Scenery

Lake Tekapo: There are not as many amazing Airbnb options in this town, but they do exist. We recommend Lake Tekapo to couples who want to be less remote and around more civilization. You’ll also find a greater variety of restaurants here.
Just under an hour’s drive from Mount Cook Village, Lake Tekapo is a favourite starting point for our full-day elopements. With its glacial blue lake, wide-open tussock landscapes, and the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, Tekapo offers a completely different backdrop—and often more predictable weather than Aoraki.

Why Start Here
For couples wanting a mix of alpine drama and soft, romantic landscapes, Tekapo is a dream. We often begin the day here (especially if the forecast is looking wild in the mountains) and move into the national park later in the afternoon.

Top Stays in Tekapo

• Galaxy Boutique Hotel – Lakefront luxury with stargazing views and modern interiors
• Peppers Bluewater Resort – Centrally located, with spacious villas and lake views
• Lakefront Airbnbs and Tiny Homes – Great for privacy, outdoor tubs, and watching sunrise in your robes

Bonus
Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, so if you’re dreaming of stargazing or astro-portraits after your vows, this is one of the best places on Earth to do it.

When to Elope to Mount Cook National Park

As far as we’re concerned, anytime is a beautiful time to elope at Mount Cook. There’s no wrong season to exchange vows in this vast and sacred alpine landscape. But knowing what to expect across the seasons can help you plan the right kind of experience for you.

Think of Mount Cook like a chameleon — the landscape shifts and transforms with every season, offering a completely different palette of colors, light, and atmosphere. Whether you’re dreaming of golden grass under a summer sun or soft snowflakes falling around a cozy fire, there’s a version of this place that will speak directly to your heart.

Summer (December to February)

Long days, golden landscapes, and warm evenings. The sun sets as late as 10 p.m. in some parts of the country, which gives us plenty of time to explore and photograph without rushing. This is the season for lupin fields glowing in the light, glacier lakes dotted with icebergs, and dreamy alpine hikes in the late afternoon.

According to MetService NZ, the summer weather in Mount Cook averages highs around 20°C (68°F), though it can feel warmer when the sun is out and there’s no wind. It’s also the most popular time for visitors — so some planning ahead is key.

Winter (June to August)

Shorter days, crisp air, and snow-draped peaks. While there’s a greater chance of wild weather, winter brings a kind of stillness and intimacy that summer can’t. Imagine starting the session fireside, sipping something warm as the snow falls quietly outside, before heading out into the mountains where the world feels wrapped in silence.

Mount Cook National Park receives up to 4 meters (13 feet) of snowfall annually in alpine areas, making it a perfect backdrop for couples who love the romance of winter. And because it sits in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, clear nights often reward us with surreal stargazing opportunities.

Both shoulder seasons in Mount Cook National Park are quietly spectacular. They don’t draw the same crowds as summer, but that’s exactly what makes them feel so special — like you’ve stepped into a secret season.

What About Spring or Autumn?

Spring (September to November) is full of promise. The rivers swell with fresh snowmelt, alpine flowers start to bloom, and the days begin to stretch out again. The mountains are often still capped with snow, while the valleys turn a tender green. There’s a sense of newness in the air — a perfect time to start your next chapter. And since tourism hasn’t yet peaked, you’ll find a little more space to breathe.

Autumn (March to May) is golden and hushed. The light gets softer, the days cooler, and the mountains shift into rich earth tones. Burnt oranges, dusky browns, and warm golds wrap the landscape, especially around Lake Pukaki and the forested foothills near Twizel. It’s the time of year when everything feels a little more reflective. A little slower. Ideal for couples who want something intimate and deeply grounded.

If you’re drawn to moody skies, painterly colours, and a sense of stillness, spring and autumn offer something truly soulful.

For more seasonal detail, check the Department of Conservation’s guide to Aoraki/Mount Cook.

FAQs: When’s the Best Time to Elope to Mount Cook?

Q: What’s the most popular month for elopements in Mount Cook?
A: January and February are typically the most popular due to the reliable weather, wildflowers, and long daylight hours. But we’ve photographed magical elopements in every season — the best time really depends on the feel you’re after.

Q: Can you still elope in Mount Cook in winter if it’s snowing?
A: Yes! We tailor the plan around the weather. If it’s snowing, we lean into it with warm layers, flexible timing, and cozy spots nearby. Some of our favorite moments have happened in quiet winter storms.

Q: Is stargazing really that good here?
A: It’s next level. Mount Cook is part of the largest dark sky reserve in the Southern Hemisphere. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way stretch like a river of light above the mountains.

Q: Will the lupins be blooming in summer?
A: Usually yes, but the timing can shift slightly each year. Peak bloom is generally late November to early January, especially around Lake Tekapo and parts of Twizel.

How to Get Married in Mount Cook National Park

There are two ways to plan your adventure elopement in Mount Cook National Park:

1. Emotional Ceremony: This is the way to go if you want a day full of anticipation, excitement, and surprises. It’s much more intimate, as a celebrant won’t be present – only the four of us. And you won’t have to plan a thing. Instead, you’ll leave everything to us. All you have to do is show up and let love (and us!) guide you.
2. Legal Ceremony: The day will still be exciting, but a few more formalities will take place. You’ll hire a celebrant to take care of the paperwork. And we’ll need to provide them with the exact location, time, and other info they need to make the union possible. So a little less surprise is involved, but it will still be just as beautiful.

Places of Interest in and Around Mount Cook National Park

One of the most beautiful things about eloping to Mount Cook is how every corner of the region feels cinematic. Whether you’re chasing golden-hour light, dreaming of a glacier backdrop, or looking for a quiet moment beside a lake, the area offers a stunning range of locations — many of which we can explore together throughout your elopement day.

Aoraki / Mount Cook Viewpoints

Let’s start with the heart of it all: Aoraki / Mount Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand. From almost anywhere in the park, you’ll see this snow-capped giant watching over the land. Some of our favourite spots to catch an unobstructed view of Aoraki include:

• Hooker Valley Track (you don’t need to walk the full trail to get beautiful views)
• Tasman Glacier Viewpoint
• The scenic pull-offs along Mount Cook Road, especially late in the day when the light hits the peaks just right

Tasman Glacier & Lake

Tasman Lake is a surreal, otherworldly place. Icebergs drift slowly in the grey-blue water, with the glacier rising at the far end. It’s quiet, cold, and full of wonder — perfect for a moment of stillness together. We’ve photographed couples here at sunrise, when the mist hangs low, and at sunset when the lake turns glassy.

If you’re up for it, there’s also the short walk to the Tasman Glacier lookout, or you can opt for a heli experience that takes you even closer.

Lake Pukaki

This lake is unreal — like someone turned the saturation all the way up. Its glacial waters are a brilliant turquoise, especially on a sunny day, and the backdrop of Mount Cook makes it an unforgettable place to start or end your elopement adventure. We often take couples here for golden hour, or even for a quiet morning moment before the day begins.

Hooker Valley Track

For couples who love the idea of walking through a dramatic alpine valley hand-in-hand, Hooker Valley is magic. The full walk takes about 3 hours return, but we don’t need to go the whole way. Even the first 30–45 minutes offer swing bridges, boardwalks, and mountain reflections. On clear days, the final view of Hooker Lake with Mount Cook rising behind it is breathtaking.

Lupin Fields (Seasonal)

From mid-November to early January, the famous lupins bloom around the Lake Tekapo and Pukaki areas, painting the land in shades of purple, pink, and cream. These wildflowers aren’t native, but they’ve become part of the seasonal landscape. We often catch golden light streaming through the flowers at sunset — it’s a painterly, romantic scene that doesn’t feel real until you’re standing in it.

Adventure Awaits: Let’s Plan Your Elopement!

We just love this place so much, and we find that many people who inquire about our photos end up asking about Mount Cook. It really has a way of pulling you in and, once you’re there, embracing you in its beauty. 

So, how do we make this Mount Cook elopement happen? First, send us a note, so we know you’re interested. Then we’ll be well on our way to creating a customised itinerary based on your love story and vibe. We can’t wait to see what magic unfolds!