Discovering the Serene Beauty of Lake Matheson
Explore Lake Matheson, a serene hiking paradise in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, famous for its breathtaking reflections of the Southern Alps.
Nestled in the stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Lake Matheson offers an unparalleled hiking experience with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking nature's tranquility.
A brief summary to Lake Matheson Walk
- Fox Glacier, 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
- Visit early in the morning for the best reflection views.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the best experience.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit for optimal viewing.
- Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the lake.
Getting There
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Car
From the center of Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) for about 2 kilometers. Look for the sign indicating Lake Matheson on your right. Turn onto Lake Matheson Road and continue for approximately 4 kilometers until you reach the Lake Matheson car park. There is no entry fee for parking.
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Public Transportation
If you do not have a car, you can take a shuttle bus service that operates between Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson. Check with local tour operators for schedules and pricing, which typically ranges from NZD 10 to NZD 20 per person for a round trip. The shuttle will drop you off at the Lake Matheson car park, where you can start your walk.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Fox Glacier, take the main road (SH6) south for about 2 kilometers until you reach Lake Matheson Road. Turn right and follow the road for about 4 kilometers. Although it is a longer trek (approximately 1.5 hours one way), you will enjoy beautiful scenery along the way. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Discover more about Lake Matheson Walk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Victoria Falls
11.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Victoria Falls, a stunning natural wonder in New Zealand's West Coast that captivates all who visit.
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
18.3 km
Discover the gateway to New Zealand's breathtaking glaciers at Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your starting point for unforgettable adventures.
Empress Hut
20.5 km
Experience the serenity of Empress Hut, a mountain cabin immersed in the stunning landscapes of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
22.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak in the stunning Southern Alps.
Douglas Rock Hut
23.2 km
Experience the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness at Douglas Rock Hut in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, your perfect outdoor retreat.
Copland Shelter
25.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Ball Hut
26.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Sefton Bivouac
28.1 km
Experience the beauty of the Southern Alps at Sefton Bivouac, a cozy mountain cabin perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Hooker Lake
28.1 km
Explore the stunning Hooker Lake, a glacial gem in Canterbury, surrounded by majestic peaks and vibrant landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Mueller Lake
30.2 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
The Second Swing Bridge
30.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
White Horse Hill Campground
31.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
31.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
33.3 km
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The Hermitage Hotel
33.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Gault Track
0.6 km
Explore Lake Gault Track, a breathtaking hiking trail in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where nature’s beauty meets tranquility and adventure.
Lake Matheson- Jetty Viewpoint
0.8 km
Discover Lake Matheson’s breathtaking reflections and lush landscapes in the heart of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Reflection Island
1.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Reflection Island, where the mountains and glaciers reflect on the still waters of Lake Matheson, a breathtaking escape in New Zealand.
Mount Fox Route trailhead
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and challenging trails of Mount Fox Route in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, an outdoor paradise for hiking enthusiasts.
The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Fox Glacier from above with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand.
HeliServices.NZ Fox Glacier
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with HeliServices.NZ's unforgettable helicopter tours.
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with guided tours and adventures in New Zealand's stunning West Coast region.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with Glacier Helicopters, an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand's stunning South Island.
Mountain Helicopters Fox Glacier
4.4 km
Discover the breathtaking sights of Fox Glacier and its majestic surroundings from the sky with Mountain Helicopters, an unforgettable aerial adventure in New Zealand.
Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View
4.4 km
Experience the stunning vistas and serene beauty of Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View, a scenic sanctuary in the heart of New Zealand's wilderness.
Minnehaha Walk
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes await your discovery.
Fox Glacier Viewpoint / Te Kopikopiko O Te Waka
4.5 km
Discover the stunning Fox Glacier Viewpoint, where breathtaking natural beauty meets accessibility for all visitors in New Zealand's remarkable landscape.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
4.6 km
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Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track
7.0 km
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Fox Glacier Valley Walk
8.3 km
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Essential places to dine
High Peaks Hotel
2.7 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
4.1 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.
Breakfast Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
4.3 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
4.4 km
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The Last Kitchen
4.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
18.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
18.4 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
18.4 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
18.5 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
18.6 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
18.6 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
18.8 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Alpine Restaurant
33.3 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
33.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Matheson Cafe
0.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of local cuisine and breathtaking views at Matheson Cafe, next to stunning Lake Matheson.
ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
0.1 km
Explore ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery for authentic New Zealand art and souvenirs that capture the beauty of the Fox Glacier region.
Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation
3.3 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation in the heart of Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
EuniQ Patchwork
3.8 km
Discover the art of quilting at EuniQ Patchwork, the premier quilt shop in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering a rich selection of fabrics and crafting supplies.
Fox Glacier Community Centre
3.9 km
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NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
3.9 km
Explore the essentials at NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier, your trusted spot for mailing services amid New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Experience Fox Glacier
4.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
4.4 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
4.4 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier Motors
4.4 km
Convenience store and petrol station in the heart of Fox Glacier, offering essential supplies and fuel for your West Coast adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
4.4 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
4.4 km
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Cafe Nevé
4.4 km
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Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
15.4 km
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William Apiaries (Honey)
15.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Motel
3.4 km
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Rainforest Motel
4.2 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
4.3 km
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The Westhaven Motel
4.4 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
4.4 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
4.5 km
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Moa Bar
18.5 km
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Snowline Bar
33.2 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
36.6 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
88.7 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
