What is the tallest mountain in New Zealand?

The tallest mountain in New Zealand is Aoraki / Mount Cook. Its highest summit rises to about 3,724 metres in the Southern Alps on New Zealand's South Island.

The mountain has three principal summits: Low Peak, Middle Peak and High Peak. It is heavily glaciated, with the Tasman Glacier on its eastern side and the Hooker Glacier to the southwest. Rapidly changing weather, crevasses, avalanches and rockfall make it a demanding mountaineering objective.

Its official dual name reflects both Māori and English history. Aoraki is deeply significant to Ngāi Tahu traditions, while the English name Mount Cook was given in 1851 to honour Captain James Cook. The Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998 formally recognised the combined name Aoraki/Mount Cook.

A frequent mix-up is Mount Tasman, New Zealand's second-highest mountain. Mount Ruapehu is the highest peak on the North Island, but it is substantially lower than Aoraki / Mount Cook.