Mount Cook in New Zealand and Its Mountainous Inhabitants

Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand, stands as a towering sentinel at 12,349 feet (3,764 meters) above sea level. Its grandeur and beauty have made it a major tourist attraction, but is it inhabited by people, or are there more creatures roaming around?

The Village at the Base of Mount Cook

While Mount Cook itself is not inhabited, the area surrounding the mountain is not without human presence. Just minutes from the base, there is a small village that plays a crucial role in the mountain's infrastructure. Located in the Southern Alps, this village supports both climbers and tourists visiting the mountain. The village, although small, offers essential services such as motels, shops, and basic amenities. However, it does not have permanent settlements; instead, visitors and climbers are the regular inhabitants of this small community. The village is part of the Mount Cook National Park, an area that has been protected and preserved for its native flora and fauna.

Kea Birds: The Nasty Explorers of the Skies

The only 'people' that can be found in terms of wildlife and not human beings within the vicinity of Mount Cook are the Kea birds. Kea are unique to New Zealand and are the world's only alpine parrot species. Found primarily in the Southern Alps, Kea are highly intelligent and known for their curiosity. They are not only known for their playful demeanor but also for their mischievous nature. Kea are known to steal any unsecured object they can find, from car parts to backpack contents. Their curious and often destructive behavior has earned them the nickname 'nasty thieves,' a name well-deserved given their penchant for raiding anything not nailed down.

Mountaineers and the Mountain: A Study in Contrast

Mountaineers and climbers are the closest humans to the mountain, spending brief periods in the Hermitage Mount Cook. This lodge is strategically located and serves as a base for those who venture into the mountain's challenging terrain. Unlike permanent settlements, the Hermitage is an essential stop for climbers and adventurers, providing shelter, food, and supplies in the heart of the mountain.

Conclusion: The Myth and Reality of Mount Cook Inhabitants

While Mount Cook itself is a vast and untamed wilderness, the myth of it being permanently inhabited by humans is unfounded. Instead, it is a place where wildlife thrives, and where humans, in the form of mountaineers and climbers, temporarily find themselves. The Kea birds, with their curious and often destructive nature, are the only 'inhabitants' of this mountainous paradise, making the area a unique and exciting destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.