Franz Josef Glacier: A Majestic Marvel of Nature
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Franz Josef Glacier, located in the breathtaking Westland Tai Poutini National Park, is a must-visit for tourists seeking natural beauty and adventure. This stunning glacier is renowned for its accessibility and awe-inspiring landscapes, offering a unique experience to explore a rapidly changing environment. With diverse walking tracks and spectacular views, Franz Josef Glacier attracts adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Franz Josef Glacier
- Westland Tai Poutini National Park, West Coast, Westland District, 7886, NZ
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain while exploring the glacier.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit as they can change rapidly.
- Consider booking a guided tour for a more informative and safe experience on the glacier.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, but also be mindful of the environment.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Car
Start from the center of Fox Glacier village. Head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) towards Franz Josef Glacier. The drive is approximately 25 km and takes about 25-30 minutes. Follow the signs to Franz Josef Glacier. Upon arrival, you will find a car park at the Franz Josef Glacier access area. Make sure to pay attention to any parking fees which can vary based on the duration of your stay.
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Public Transportation
From Fox Glacier, you can take a shuttle bus service that operates between Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Check with local providers for the latest schedules and prices; they typically run several times a day. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
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Walking (After Parking or Shuttle Drop-off)
Once you arrive at the Franz Josef Glacier car park or drop-off point, you will need to walk approximately 10-15 minutes along the designated walking track to get closer to the glacier. The track is well-marked and follows the riverbed, providing stunning views along the way. Ensure you have appropriate footwear and clothing for walking and the weather conditions.
Discover more about Franz Josef Glacier
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
5.7 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
6.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Robert's Point Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand with stunning views of Fox Glacier and lush rainforests.
Victoria Falls
8.7 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.
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
8.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with Heli Hiking, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
9.4 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.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
14.3 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
14.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with expert-led tours and unforgettable adventures in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
Minnehaha Walk
14.4 km
Discover the stunning Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mt Cook
14.6 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.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
14.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Empress Hut
14.9 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.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
15.2 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.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
15.9 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Ball Hut
17.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Lake Matheson Walk
18.4 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
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a true gem on New Zealand's West Coast, where adventure and natural beauty await.
Trident Creek Falls
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Trident Creek Falls, a stunning waterfall near Franz Josef Glacier, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Start Alex Knob Trail
6.7 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
Alex knob track
6.9 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.
Terrace Walk
9.0 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
9.3 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
9.3 km
Embark on a breathtaking helicopter journey over Franz Josef Glacier, witnessing its stunning ice formations and majestic landscapes from above.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
9.3 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
9.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's landscapes at the Alpine Adventure Centre's HELIMAX cinema experience in Franz Josef.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
9.4 km
Discover New Zealand's unique wildlife and conservation efforts at the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef, a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Canavans Knob
9.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
9.7 km
Explore Franz Josef Glacier with expert guides, exciting helicopter tours, and breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
FRANZ JOSEF
10.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand, home to stunning glaciers and lush alpine landscapes.
Fox Glacier Valley Walk
12.3 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.
Essential places to dine
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
9.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
9.4 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
9.4 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
9.4 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
9.6 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
9.6 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
14.3 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The Last Kitchen
14.3 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
14.4 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
14.4 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
14.6 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.
High Peaks Hotel
16.0 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
30.2 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
30.5 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
5.8 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Blucod
9.2 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Four Square Franz Josef
9.3 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
9.3 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
The Glacier Shop
9.4 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
William Apiaries (Honey)
10.5 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
11.3 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Packraft New Zealand
11.8 km
Embark on an unforgettable packrafting adventure in Franz Josef, New Zealand. Gear up at Packraft New Zealand for the ultimate outdoor experience.
Real Tin Toys
11.9 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
Cafe Nevé
14.3 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
14.3 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
14.3 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.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
14.3 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
14.4 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
14.4 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
9.5 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.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
14.2 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
The Westhaven Motel
14.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
14.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
14.4 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
14.5 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
15.2 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
30.2 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
32.5 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
15.1 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
30.1 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
30.5 km
Discover the exhilarating world of heliskiing at Mount Cook, New Zealand's premier ski resort nestled in stunning alpine beauty.
