Arthur's Pass National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the stunning Canterbury region of New Zealand, Arthur's Pass National Park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This picturesque park is a playground for outdoor activities, offering breathtaking landscapes and an abundance of wildlife.
One of the highlights of Arthur's Pass National Park is its diverse range of walking tracks. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, there is a trail for everyone. The Arthur's Pass Walking Track is a popular choice, taking you through lush beech forests, past cascading waterfalls, and up to stunning alpine vistas. As you make your way along the track, keep an eye out for the park's resident bird species, including the kea, New Zealand's native parrot.
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, Arthur's Pass National Park also offers opportunities for mountaineering and rock climbing. The park is home to some of the South Island's highest peaks, providing a thrilling experience for experienced climbers. The stunning views from the top are well worth the effort.
As you explore the park, don't forget to visit the famous Arthur's Pass Village. This charming alpine settlement serves as a gateway to the park and offers a range of amenities for visitors. Grab a bite to eat at one of the cozy cafés or browse through the local art galleries and gift shops to find a unique souvenir to take home.
If you're lucky, you may even spot some of the park's unique wildlife, including the elusive kiwi bird, the cheeky kea, and the adorable little blue penguin. Arthur's Pass National Park is also home to a variety of native plants and flowers, adding bursts of color to the already stunning landscape.
Canterbury
Arthur's Pass National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Arthur's Pass National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Temple Basin, Avalanche Peak, Mount Damfool, Mount Rolleston. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Arthur's Pass National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Arthur's Pass National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Porters Ski Area, Ashley Gorge, Cave Stream.
Best Time To Visit Arthur's Pass National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Arthur's Pass National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Kea
The kea is a fascinating and unique parrot native to the forested and alpine regions of New Zealand's South Island. It is the only alpine parrot in the world, renowned for its remarkable intelligence and curiosity. The kea’s diet is quite varied, consisting of...
Birds
New Zealand kaka
The New Zealand kaka is a captivating large parrot native to the verdant forests of New Zealand. There are two subspecies: the North Island kaka and the South Island kaka. Regrettably, these striking birds are endangered and have disappeared from numerous areas where...
Birds
Eurasian oystercatcher
The Eurasian oystercatcher, often simply referred to as the oystercatcher, is a captivating bird known by several names, including the common pied oystercatcher and the palaearctic oystercatcher. It belongs to the Haematopodidae family and is widely distributed across...
Birds
Red Deer, Elk, Hangul, Maral, Wapiti
The red deer is a large and majestic animal found in various parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Over time, they have been introduced to regions such as Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. As ruminants, red deer possess a unique four-chambered...
Mammals
Great spotted kiwi
The great spotted kiwi, also known as the great grey kiwi or roroa, is a unique, flightless bird endemic to New Zealand's South Island. It is the largest species of kiwi, but it faces significant threats from invasive predators such as dogs, ferrets, cats, and stoats...
Birds
Canterbury