Mount Cook - Aoraki
Mount Cook, or as is known - Aoraki is the highest peak in New Zealand. It rises to 3754 m altitude in the southern Alps. Mount Cook is a favorite destination for climbers, but one needs serious training and experience to climb as even experienced climbers admit that climbing is challenging.
East of Mount Cook stretches the Tasman glacier, and to the west – Hooker glacier. The Alpine village, named after the summit - Mount Cook, is located within the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Here tourists can get all necessary information and assistance to enjoy the climb to the top.
Although Mount Cook is not the highest of peaks, it is quite impressive and majestic. Since the first 1200 meters of climbing are extremely difficult, because the terrain is almost vertical, most climbers prefer to reach almost to the middle of the path by helicopter. This greatly increases the chances of successfully conquering the summit.
Climbers must be in very good shape because you have to climb up to twenty hours a day. It is not possible for a novice climber to tackle the challenge of this peak. People with less experience who want to conquer the summit can obtain assistance and training in the village.
The slightest change in weather conditions can radically change the route of ascent and frustrate the plans of climbers. It is advisable to arrive by helicopter to Plateau Hut, since the area around the Tasman glacier is very difficult, and the edge of Haast is quite uncertain. When visitors use the helicopter, they can use the opportunity to provide themselves with sunny days. Even if you start climbing on a sunny day, it may change dramatically as you cross the first part of the route of ascent.
Climbers must be equipped with sleeping bags and food to be able to conquer the summit without any problems. It is believed that the ascent of Mount Cook is technically much more difficult than climbing Everest. So if climbers do not have enough experience, you should take a short course from a climbing specialist in the alpine village. Instructors of climbers show how to use an ice axe, which in places is vital, and explain in detail what are the dangers of climbing.
It is possible to climb with someone who accompanies tourists and helps them in more difficult situations. The peak requires at least three days climbing. Companions you will have to rent for no less than six days because they will be able to determine exactly which day you should start to not be overtaken by a snowstorm. Tourists who wish to reach the summit should be able to carry a heavy backpack in which to load everything.
You must have a special mat on which to put the sleeping bag, which must withstand fifteen degrees below zero. Rain coat, waterproof shoes, fifty-meter rope, helmet, metal cats, windproof jacket and trousers, two shirts, three pairs of wool socks, sun hat, shoes, gloves, sunglasses, flashlight head, sunscreen, thermos, toiletries and drugs are among the recommended things to bring for every tourist.
Tourists can climb to the summit, enjoy a snow safari, sailing on glaciers, horseback riding, fishing, spectacular flights over the snow and car rallies. The Tasman glacier is chosen by many couples as the place for a non-traditional wedding. Each year, to Mount Cook travel thousands of fans of strong sensations.
