STAY, PLAY, SAVOUR

STAY

The Hermitage Hotel is the best-located base for exploring the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. I stayed in a premium room, which framed the star attraction through large picture windows. Book at hermitage.co.nz

Peppers Bluewater Resort at Lake Tekapo has hotel rooms, and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites and villas across the road from the lake. You’ll be spoiled for space in the split-level villas and it’s worth splashing out on a lake view. Book at MantraHotels.com

PLAY

Hike: Your first stop should be the Department of Conservation’s website (doc.govt.nz) to choose a route suitable for your fitness level and check warnings. The weather can change quickly – and snow can fall at any time of year – so keep an eye on the forecast and warm clothing in your backpack. Wear sunscreen. Heli: Mount Cook Glacier Helihike operates daily from October to April.

Hot pools: Tekapo Springs has three tiered hot pools open daily from 10am to 9pm, as well as a spa and stargazing tours. Book at tekapo springs.co.nz

SAVOUR

For a side of scenery with your coffee, visit The Astro Cafe on Mt John. There is an $8 a vehicle fee (payable at the kiosk on the Mt John Access road). The Hermitage’s Panorama Room will introduce you to local produce, including grilled Aoraki salmon and Canterbury beef. The pies at Fairlie Bakehouse ( 72 Main St, Fairlie) are famous for a reason.

FLY

Fly into Queenstown or Christchurch – hire-car companies operate around both airports and it’s a three-hour drive to Lake Tekapo from either (I prefer the scenic route through Lindis Pass from Queenstown and the wineries you pass on the way, but that’s another story). Choose your adventure according to the seasons. In summer, the lupins that line the lake shore are a magnet for landscape photographers. Purple petals are already unfurling, but December is your best bet to see a sea of blooms. While the region is a wonderland in winter when it’s cloaked in snow, some activities may be off the menu. The glacier lake freezes over, so Glacier Explorers can only operate their boat tour from September to June. Mild temperatures in autumn and spring are ideal for hiking. With a favourable exchange rate taking your dollar further, now is a great time to go.