Reflection Island: A Scenic Gem of New Zealand
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Reflection Island, where stunning mountain reflections and serene landscapes await in New Zealand's West Coast.
Nestled within the breathtaking backdrop of the West Coast, Reflection Island is a must-visit scenic spot for tourists. Known for its stunning vistas of Lake Matheson and the surrounding mountains, this location offers a tranquil escape into nature. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lake's edge, capturing breathtaking reflections of the Southern Alps in the calm waters. Perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, it's an idyllic destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Reflection Island
- Lake Matheson, West Coast, 7886, NZ
- 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 reflections and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Dress in layers, as weather can change rapidly in this region.
- Take your time on the walking paths to fully appreciate the scenery.
Getting There
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Car
From Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) towards the town of Franz Josef. Continue for approximately 22 km until you reach the turnoff for Lake Matheson Road. Turn left onto Lake Matheson Road and follow it for about 5 km. You will arrive at the Lake Matheson car park, where you can find information about the walking tracks. The Reflection Island is a scenic spot accessible via the walking tracks around Lake Matheson.
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Public Transport
If you are using public transport, check with local bus services for routes from Fox Glacier to Lake Matheson. The bus services may not run frequently, so it is advisable to check the schedule in advance. Once you arrive at Lake Matheson, follow the signs to the walking tracks leading to Reflection Island. The walk around the lake takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on your pace.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the town center of Fox Glacier and head towards Lake Matheson. This is a scenic walk that can take around 1.5 to 2 hours one way, depending on your pace. The walking track is well-marked and offers stunning views along the way. Once you reach Lake Matheson, follow the signs to the circuit track to access Reflection Island.
Discover more about Reflection Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Victoria Falls
12.8 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.
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
18.5 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.
Empress Hut
21.6 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
23.7 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Douglas Rock Hut
24.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Douglas Rock Hut, your perfect lodge in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Copland Shelter
26.4 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Ball Hut
27.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Sefton Bivouac
29.2 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
Hooker Lake
29.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Mueller Lake
31.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
The Second Swing Bridge
31.7 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Mount Cook National Park while crossing the iconic Second Swing Bridge, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
White Horse Hill Campground
33.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at White Horse Hill Campground in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a true gem for nature lovers.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
33.1 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
34.4 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
The Hermitage Hotel
34.4 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Hermitage Hotel, your gateway to the stunning Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Matheson- Jetty Viewpoint
0.3 km
Discover the stunning reflections of the Southern Alps at Lake Matheson, a serene and scenic attraction in New Zealand's West Coast.
Lake Gault Track
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Lake Gault Track in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a serene escape for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Lake Matheson Walk
1.2 km
Explore Lake Matheson, a serene hiking paradise in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, famous for its breathtaking reflections of the Southern Alps.
Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View
4.2 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.
Fox Glacier Viewpoint / Te Kopikopiko O Te Waka
4.2 km
Discover the stunning Fox Glacier Viewpoint, where breathtaking natural beauty meets accessibility for all visitors in New Zealand's remarkable landscape.
The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier
5.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Fox Glacier with thrilling helicopter tours, revealing the beauty and majesty of New Zealand's natural wonders.
HeliServices.NZ Fox Glacier
5.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with HeliServices.NZ's unforgettable helicopter tours.
Fox Glacier Guiding - Glacier Tours & Adventures
5.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with guided tours and adventures in New Zealand's stunning West Coast region.
Mount Fox Route trailhead
5.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and challenging trails of Mount Fox Route in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, an outdoor paradise for hiking enthusiasts.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
5.4 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
5.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier from above with Mountain Helicopters—an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Minnehaha Walk
5.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes await your discovery.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
5.8 km
Explore the Fox Glacier South Side Walk in New Zealand's Westland National Park, a breathtaking journey through glaciers, mountains, and unique ecosystems.
Fox Glacier Chalet Lookout Track
8.2 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.
Fox Glacier Valley Walk
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier Valley Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Essential places to dine
High Peaks Hotel
3.8 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
5.0 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
5.2 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
5.3 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
5.4 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The Last Kitchen
5.4 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
18.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
SnakeBite Brewery
18.6 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
18.6 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
18.7 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
Monsoon Restaurant
18.7 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
18.7 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
King Tiger
18.9 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Alpine Restaurant
34.4 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
34.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Matheson Cafe
1.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of local cuisine and breathtaking views at Matheson Cafe, next to stunning Lake Matheson.
ReflectioNZ Gifts & Gallery
1.2 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
4.3 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and breathtaking views at Misty Peaks Boutique Accommodation in the heart of Fox Glacier, New Zealand.
EuniQ Patchwork
4.8 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
4.9 km
Discover the Fox Glacier Community Centre – your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and adventures of New Zealand's Fox Glacier region.
NZ Post Centre Fox Glacier
4.9 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
5.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
5.3 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
5.3 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 Motors
5.4 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
5.4 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
5.4 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.
Cafe Nevé
5.4 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
15.4 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
William Apiaries (Honey)
16.0 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Motel
4.4 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Rainforest Motel
5.1 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
5.3 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
The Westhaven Motel
5.3 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
5.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
5.5 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Moa Bar
18.6 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.
Snowline Bar
34.4 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
37.8 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
88.8 km
Discover the charm of The Hard Antler, a beloved bar in Haast, New Zealand, offering local flavors and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
