Discover the Majestic Beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park
Nestled on the West Coast of New Zealand, the Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a true gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive national park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged coastline to towering mountains, lush rainforests to ancient glaciers. As a tourist attraction and national park, Westland Tai Poutini is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Explore the famous Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, or embark on a guided tour to discover the unique flora and fauna of the region. With its rich Maori history and stunning natural beauty, Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand.
A brief summary to Westland Tai Poutini National Park
- West Coast, NZ
- +6437520360
- Visit website
Local tips
- Make sure to pack layers of clothing as the weather in the national park can change rapidly.
- Consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views of the glaciers and mountains.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Westland Tai Poutini National Park by car, start by driving on State Highway 6 towards the town of Hokitika. From Hokitika, continue south on State Highway 6 until you reach the town of Franz Josef. Once in Franz Josef, follow the signs to Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The park entrance is located off State Highway 6, near the Franz Josef Glacier.
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Public Transportation
If traveling by public transportation, you can take a bus from major cities in New Zealand, such as Christchurch or Queenstown, to the town of Franz Josef. From Franz Josef, you can either walk or take a taxi to the entrance of Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance as they may vary depending on the season.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
5.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with Heli Hiking, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Victoria Falls
5.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures at Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
8.5 km
Discover the enchanting Franz Josef Glacier Walk, a must-see hiking destination showcasing stunning glaciers and lush rainforests in New Zealand.
Robert's Point Track
9.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Robert's Point Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand with stunning views of Fox Glacier and lush rainforests.
Mt Cook
11.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Empress Hut
11.1 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
12.3 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
12.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef with convenient access to glacier adventures from Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your gateway to stunning landscapes.
Minnehaha Walk
12.6 km
Discover the stunning Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
12.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand's Fox Glacier from above with Glacier Helicopters. Experience unforgettable aerial views and adventure.
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
12.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with expert-led tours and unforgettable adventures in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
13.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
13.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the Fox Glacier South Side Walk in New Zealand's pristine Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Ball Hut
14.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Lake Matheson Walk
17.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Matheson Walk, a serene hiking trail featuring stunning reflections of the Southern Alps in New Zealand.
Unmissable attractions to see
Franz Josef Glacier
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Trident Creek Falls
7.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Trident Creek Falls, a stunning waterfall near Franz Josef Glacier, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Alex knob track
9.5 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Alex Knob Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park, perfect for adventure seekers.
Fox Glacier Valley Walk
9.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Fox Glacier Valley Walk in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-see for nature lovers.
Start Alex Knob Trail
9.8 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
Mt Cook High Peak
10.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities at Mt Cook High Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain in the stunning Canterbury region.
Aoraki / Mount Cook
10.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, surrounded by stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities.
Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track
11.1 km
Experience the stunning views and serene beauty of Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track, a must-visit scenic spot in New Zealand's breathtaking West Coast.
Terrace Walk
12.2 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
Canavans Knob
12.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
12.5 km
Discover the majestic Franz Josef Glacier with an unforgettable helicopter hike, where stunning views and adventure await in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
12.5 km
Embark on a breathtaking helicopter journey over Franz Josef Glacier, witnessing its stunning ice formations and majestic landscapes from above.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
12.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's landscapes at the Alpine Adventure Centre's HELIMAX cinema experience in Franz Josef.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
12.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Tatare Tunnels Walk in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Callery Gorge Walk
12.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Essential places to dine
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
12.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
12.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
12.6 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
The Last Kitchen
12.6 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
12.6 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
12.6 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
12.7 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
12.7 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Monsoon Restaurant
12.8 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
12.8 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
12.9 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar in Fox Glacier—where every meal is a celebration of New Zealand's finest flavors.
King Tiger
13.0 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
High Peaks Hotel
14.3 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
26.5 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
26.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
8.6 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Blucod
12.4 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Four Square Franz Josef
12.5 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
12.5 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
12.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Cafe Nevé
12.6 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
12.6 km
Experience the convenience of On the Spot Fox Glacier, your go-to store for snacks, drinks, and local treasures in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
12.6 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
12.6 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
12.6 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
12.6 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
12.7 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
William Apiaries (Honey)
13.0 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
13.1 km
Explore the essentials at NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier, your trusted spot for mailing services amid New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Fox Glacier Community Centre
13.1 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
12.5 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
12.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
The Westhaven Motel
12.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Moa Bar
12.7 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
12.7 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
12.8 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
13.6 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
26.5 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
29.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Hard Antler
99.7 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
13.4 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand's Fox Glacier at Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels, your base for adventure and relaxation in stunning landscapes.
Tasman Glacier Skiing
26.5 km
Discover the thrill of skiing on the stunning Tasman Glacier nestled in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's alpine paradise.
Mount Cook Heliski
26.8 km
Discover the exhilarating world of heliskiing at Mount Cook, New Zealand's premier ski resort nestled in stunning alpine beauty.
