It’s clear that New Zealand has some spectacular mountain peaks. There are many mountains to see, including the Southern Alps that stretch across the South Island and a few impressive volcanoes in the North Island.
There are some mountains you should see if you are like many tourists who visit New Zealand to view the beautiful mountain peaks. These are the seven most spectacular and inspiring mountains in New Zealand.
Mount Taranaki
Mt Taranaki, New Zealand’s most symmetrical volcanic peak, is well-known to tourists. It is so beautiful it almost looks fake! For the Maori, however, this volcano is a living being, an ancestor, and you should not attempt to climb the summit. Although you can reach the top from almost any point, the Maori should not be allowed to climb to the top.
Mt Taranaki can be found in Egmont National Park, not far from New Plymouth on NZ’s North Island. Hikers can choose to climb the volcano’s summit or take one of the many nearby hikes that offer breathtaking views. You must climb up to the Pouakai Hut to see the famous reflective Tarn for stunning views of Mt Taranaki.
Aoraki/Mount Cook
Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest mountain. At 3,724 metres above sea level, she stands tall amongst the surrounding mountains. Mt Cook is so spectacular that many hikes are dedicated to getting the best view. One of these hikes is the Hooker Valley Track. The trail takes hikers around the Hooker Valley for a total of 10 km. Hooker Lake is the end of the trail. Mt Cook can be seen in the background.
Mt Cook can be found in Mt Cook National Park, the South Island state of Canterbury. It’s about a 4 hour drive from Christchurch and 3 hours from Queenstown. It is possible to spend a day exploring the area or to stay for a few nights in Mount Cook Village. The best way to truly enjoy the park is to stay the night.
Tasman Lake is another popular attraction in Mount Cook National Park. Also, you can take a scenic helicopter flight and climb to the Mueller Hut.
Related to Take a look at Mount Cook Village, NZ’s highest mountain, on our 14 Day South Island Wonders Self Drive Tour.
Mitre Peak
Mitre Peak is the most unusual mountain on the list. However, it is also the most well-known. This pointy peak can be seen from the foreshore of Milford Sound. It is a sight that you won’t want to miss, and will most likely become the focal point of many photos.
Mitre Peak is not only unique in appearance, but also has an unusual location. The peak, which is 1,692 meters high, rises out of Fiordland National Park’s Tasman Sea. Only the most experienced climbers and mountaineers can reach the summit, but anyone can take in the view from Milford Sound’s boat cruise or scenic flight.
Mount Ngauruhoe
Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom, is a result of its role in the Lord of the Rings films. This dormant volcano can be found in Tongariro National Park, with Mount Ruapehu ski area to the south.
Tongariro Crossing is one of New Zealand’s most popular day hikes. The trail is 19 km long and takes you right to Mt Ngauruhoe. If hiking is not your thing, you can take a scenic flight or see the beautiful mountain from Taupo.
Mount Aspiring/ Tititea
Mt Aspiring, at 3,033m high, is New Zealand’s highest mountain. This stunning beauty is located in the centre of a national park named Mount Aspiring National Park. It is located 30 kilometres west from Lake Wanaka in the southern section the Southern Alps.
On their way to Franz Josef or Wanaka, many people stop at Mount Aspiring National Park. You can admire the thundering Thunder Creek Falls or swim in the Blue Pools.
You must climb Mt Aspiring if you want to truly enjoy it. Although there are many huts on the trail that leads to Raspberry Flats, the trail is difficult and should only be attempted by experienced climbers and hikers.
The Most Remarkable
The Remarkables doesn’t consist of one mountain. It is a whole range! This range’s name comes from the fact that a mountain scout back in the day observed the mountain range running exactly north of sound and named it “remarkable!”
The Remarkables are located at the border of Queenstown, in the South Island state Central Otago. These mountains are tall and beautiful, and you’ll probably notice them if you visit Queenstown. The Remarkables are a stunning backdrop from Queenstown’s town centre, right at the edge of Lake Wakatipu. A glass of wine and a sunset are the perfect way to spend an evening here.
Jet boating is a great way to have some adventure on Lake Wakatipu or down the Kawarau River. You’ll have amazing views of the Remarkables from this location. You can also take the gondola to Bob’s peak for great views of Queenstown and, of course, Remarks.
You can also find a ski area on the Remarkables, called The Remarkables. You can ski or snowboard on the many groomed tracks and backcountry trails here from June through October.
Roy’s Peak
Recent popularity has seen hiking to Roy’s Peak as one of the most popular activities in New Zealand. The hike is a short but difficult day and climbs 1258m in 8 km. You will eventually reach Roys Peak by following a trail that zigzags up the side.
What makes such a steep hike so popular. The views from the top are spectacular! The views from the top are spectacular and you can see all of the surrounding lakes. The trail is only 10 minutes from Wanaka.
This trail is very popular in summer. If you decide to take on the trail yourself, be sure to get there early in the morning to beat the crowds.