Discover the history of this iconic region

The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
  • The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
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Adult from $25, Child (14 years and under) from $15 (prices valid until 30 September 2025)
Adult from $29, Child (14 years and under) from $15 (prices valid from 1 October 2025)
Open Daily 9.00am - 8.30pm (current seasonal opening times)
Entry to movie theatre included in ticket price
Suitable for all ages
If you are staying at the hotel, lodge or motels, your ticket is valid for the duration of your stay
Aoraki/Mount Cook climbing memoribilia
Aoraki/Mount Cook aviation history
Wheelchair accessible

Learn about Sir Edmund Hillary – one of the world's greatest explorers

The museum is a tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary, humanitarian, ambassador and mountaineering pioneer. 

Located in the Hermitage Hotel, the museum showcases the history of the Mount Cook region with transport, climbing and Sir Edmund Hillary exhibits. There's also an exhibit on the Hermitage, an iconic NZ hotel with a history spanning over 140 years. The museum is a 'must do' activity for those staying at the hotel or exploring the National Park.

The Hillary Gallery is dedicated to the life and achievements of our most famous New Zealander, Sir Edmund Hillary, particularly his affiliation with Aoraki/Mount Cook. It was here he climbed his first major mountain, achieved a number of impressive first ascents including the difficult south face of Aoraki/Mount Cook, and trained for both his Everest and Antarctic expeditions.

The commemorative statue located on the deck of the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre was unveiled by Sir Edmund Hillary himself in July 2003 and is based on a photo taken after Sir Edmund completed a Grand Traverse of the three peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook in 1970 for his 50th birthday.