Very impressive, a massive visitor center, very informative, so much to look, read and explore inside. Really interesting. Beautiful design and view from inside. You should make a stop on your way around Mt Cook.
Such a surprise, I had no idea how stunning this visitors centre was going to be. Excellent photographs and documentation and some very clear explanations of geology make this centre a real gem. Beautifully presented and well worth the drive. Staff were informative and helpful, guided us towards suitable walks and what options there are. Walks for everyone. We were blessed with amazing weather which obviously helps but this place is worth the visit come rain or shine.
The Mount Cook paths are wonderful with breathtaking views and natural beauty. The DOC campsite however surprises. The service include a cooking room and toilets, but no showers which are in the main visitor centre kilometers away. In addition there are no lights in the campsite kitchen/toilets building, what a mess in both areas when the darkness falls.
Besides the store, there are very interesting exhibits on Aoraki Mt Cook, including the meaning of the Maori name and the mountain's sacredness to the Maori people. Also, this is where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for his successful ascent of Mt. Everest.
Lots of historical objects to view. Loved the stained glass windows. Learned that we didn't need to do the Kea Point walk if we were already doing the Hooker Valley track.
Informative, with real display items on show and a stunning view from the gorgeous front window. Friendly staff and best of all, free!
The displays are great and I enjoyed the film downstairs. The information available was good and there was a good photo exhibition when we visited. Highly recommend.
Being a mountain nerd I could have easily spent much longer than the good half hour, so much to read and see. But the sun was shining and walks were calling so we bought a brochure and off we went!
We only had an afternoon to visit the Aoraki/Mt Cook area, and the DOC staff was very helpful in suggesting walks we could take in our limited time. We had to tear ourselves away from the interesting exhibits and films to get outside and enjoy the beautiful day we were fortunate enough to have on our short visit.
The historical displays and interactive displays here are outstanding. Could easily spend an hour looking through. Information on walk tracks was readily available