A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Taupo vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Taupo

Taupo is a otherworldly, striking, and stunning town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a scenic, dramatic, and breathtaking mountain. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Taupo and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Taupo. Although Taupo and Aoraki Mount Cook are both popular with visitors, Taupo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Taupo is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Aoraki Mount Cook is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Taupo is popular for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes. It is also home to the Craters of the Moon reserve. Aoraki Mount Cook is popular for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand.

How is Taupo different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aoraki Mount Cook and Taupo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Skiing?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Taupo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Aoraki Mount Cook specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Many visitors go to Taupo for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Aoraki Mount Cook is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Taupo is very family-friendly. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.


Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

With fun activities for couples, both Taupo and Aoraki Mount Cook make for a amazing place to visit.

Taupo makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Aoraki Mount Cook has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Taupo, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.

Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.


Is Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Taupo
Aoraki Mount Cook

Taupo is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its walkability.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not very walkable. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Taupo Worth Visiting? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

It's fun to spend time in either Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Taupo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aoraki Mount Cook.

Families should spend more time in Taupo than Aoraki Mount Cook. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Taupo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Taupo than Aoraki Mount Cook. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Taupo that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Taupo than Aoraki Mount Cook if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Taupo.


  • How many days in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taupo 2-3 
    Aoraki Mount Cook 2-4

One day in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With food and shopping around the destination of Taupo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

In Aoraki Mount Cook, many people enjoy the that this dramatic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This mountain offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With shopping and skiing around the stunning town of Taupo, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the stunning destination of Taupo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Taupo is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Aoraki Mount Cook. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Aoraki Mount Cook or Taupo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Taupo is $112, while the average daily cost in Aoraki Mount Cook is $106. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Taupo and Aoraki Mount Cook in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taupo $63
    Aoraki Mount Cook $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taupo $126
    Aoraki Mount Cook $120
Compare Hotels in Taupo and Aoraki Mount Cook

Looking for a hotel in Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Taupo


Hotels in Aoraki Mount Cook


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Taupo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taupo $25
    Aoraki Mount Cook $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aoraki Mount Cook

Also for Aoraki Mount Cook, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Dunedin City Hotels to Chalmers Cruise Port: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Taupo or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Prices for flights to both Aoraki Mount Cook and Taupo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Taupo $24
    Aoraki Mount Cook $27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taupo $35
    Aoraki Mount Cook $23
Typical Entertainment Prices in Taupo

Here are a few typical costs in Taupo for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Bungy Jumping
    $153
  • Jet Boating
    $57

Tours and Activities in Taupo

Here are a few actual costs in Taupo for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo: $30
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - Cabin in the Woods: $23
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Candy Cottage: $23
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Hunting Lodge: $23
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Marvelous Circus: $23
  • Great Lake Trail Lake Taupo 2-Day Mountain Biking Tour: $98
  • Hukafalls: 30-Minute Jet Boat Experience: $83
  • Lake 1.5-Hour Maori Rock Carvings 5:00 PM Cruise: $27
  • Lake Maori Rock Carvings 10.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise: $29
  • Lake Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Boat Cruise: $29
  • Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit: $36
  • Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Sail Fearless: $30

Tours and Activities in Aoraki Mount Cook

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Aoraki Mount Cook.

  • Franz Josef Nature Tour: $56
  • Mt. Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (1-way) : $107
  • From Christchurch: Mount Cook One-Way Discovery Tour: $119
  • Mt Cook to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour 1 way: $122
  • Mount Cook to Queenstown Day Tour: $150
  • Mt Cook Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Optional Activities : $153
  • Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Hike Small Group Tour from Queenstown: $153
  • (MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch: $179
  • 45-Minute Mount Cook Ski Plane and Helicopter Combo Tour: $294
  • Mt Cook Tour: Return to Christchurch, Queenstown or Dunedin: $779
  • Mt Cook Tour: Return to Queenstown, Christchurch or Dunedin: $779
  • From Queenstown: Mount Cook Private Day Tour: $1,199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taupo $13
    Aoraki Mount Cook $21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Taupo

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Taupo from other travelers:


  • Wine
    $5.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Aoraki Mount Cook

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aoraki Mount Cook:

  • Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience: $16
  • Valli Wine Tasting Experience: $28
  • Wild Irishman Wine Tasting Experience: $47


When comparing the travel costs between Taupo and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Taupo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Taupo Expensive? and Is Aoraki Mount Cook Expensive?.