The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

1 May 2007

New Zealand’s iconic Hermitage Hotel is opening a $7.5 million state-of-the-art museum and theatre showcasing the history of climbing and transport in the Mount Cook region. The project will include a museum, audio-visual theatre as well as new café, bar and retail facilities.

The Department of Conservation has approved the 2,500 square metre addition to the Hermitage Hotel and work is underway.

With the great Sir Edmund Hillary as namesake, the new centre will open in mid November 2007. The construction phase of the development will be carried out during the low season, much of the building will be pre-fabricated outside of the village and the development site is restricted to a confined area on the western end of the Hotel premises. Thus the construction phase is expected to have little impact on general hotel operations and its environs.

For more than a century, the Hermitage has welcomed adventurous visitors wanting to explore the natural mountain amphitheatre and majestic peaks in the National Park. General Manager, Denis Callesen says the project will be an encounter with the unique history and culture associated with the Mount Cook region. “We will be telling the story of the Mount Cook area and the three Hermitage Hotels through historic records, artefacts and personal accounts that date back to the early days of settlement and follow the transformation of the region into the National Park / World Heritage Area that exists today.”

The 120 seat theatre will boast the latest audio-visual advancements including digital and 3-D technology, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience a variety of thrilling yet informative feature presentations. The theatre will be complemented by the modern day museum designed to educate and entertain visitors using dynamic and interactive exhibits. On show in the transport area will be the first ski plane to land on the Tasman Glacier, the first car to reach Mount Cook – a 1902 De Dion Bouton, and one of the first service cars in the region - a 1908 Darracq.

Mr Callesen says “By enabling people to understand the unique history of this area, we believe the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre will be a ‘must do’ where both New Zealanders and international visitors will learn about the human exploration of one of the world’s most valuable natural landscapes including Aotearoa’s tallest icon Aoraki Mount Cook. This facility will offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy a truly exceptional experience in a truly outstanding location.”

ENDS

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