From Hokitika to Mt. Cook
 

I couldn't find it on my map, but is there a road from Hwy 6 that leads to Mt. Cook from Hokitika? Or do I have to loop around to the East? I want to visit a glacier scene, and I feel as if Mt. Cook is the most scenic because of the lake atmosphere, but now I fear that my choices will be limited to FJ or Fox since the drive is a long one coming from the North.

There's no direct route from Hokitika to Mt Cook because the Southern Alps separate the two.

You can reach Mt Cook via Hwy 6, 8 & 80 or via 73, Arthur's Pass (from Kumara Junction, which is a tad bit north of Hokitika), then pick up Hwy 1 & 8 & 80.

I suspect the second route is shorter, but the drive from Hokitika along the west coast is definitely more scenic.

Arthur's Pass is scenic, but the east coast from Christchurh to Timaru is pretty flat and boring IMO.