If you only do ONE walk in New Zealand, make it this one. Hooker Valley is hands down the most beautiful short walk in the entire country, a 3 hour return track that takes you to stunning views of Aoraki Mt Cook. The Hooker Valley track follows the Hooker river, crossing swing bridges and boardwalks as it winds through alpine meadows and glacier-carved valleys.

The track is undulating and gentle, suitable for all fitness levels and abilities. The highlight of the walk is reaching Hooker Lake, with icebergs floating on the lake, and in winter the lake may even be covered in ice. Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand’s tallest mountain at 3,724 and it’s incredible to be able to get so close to it.

Start the walk from White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki Mt Cook village. The track is well signposted, with viewpoints along the way.

Remember: New Zealand weather can change drastically. It is recommended to take a sunhat and raincoat, and apply sunscreen, whatever the weather.

Personal tip: Allow extra time as you will likely be stopping plenty of times along the way to take in the magnificent views and soak up all the mountain goodness.

Pronunciation: Aoraki - ow-raa-kee

For more info, listen to Episode 054 / 079 of the Aotearoa Adventures podcast.