Mount Cook National Park , straddles the Southern Alps and includes 22 peaks over 10,000 feet. The tallest is Mount Cook at 12,317 feet. Nelson Lakes National Park , south of Nelson, is noted for its alpine flowers and is the perfect place to explore craggy ranges, crystal-clear lakes, wild rivers and beautiful beech forests. It offers fine walking tracks through lush rainforests. Don't miss the famous Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, among the most accessible in the world.
Inland trails lead through a limestone country of caverns, canyons and disappearing rivers.
Details The Department of Conservation, which administers these areas, provides and maintains facilities, such as huts, tracks, camping grounds and picnic spots, and offers assistance and advice on how best to enjoy them. Some parks also have special facilities for the disabled. Parks are open all year round and no permits are required to visit. Most parks have a visitor center, with displays, maps and guide books. During the summer, many parks run programs for visitors, including guided walks.