Explore the Wonders of Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
Discover the natural beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park at its Visitor Centre, your gateway to adventure and exploration.
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes, the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre serves as a gateway for tourists seeking adventure and natural beauty. This informative hub offers insights into the park’s stunning sights, including glaciers, rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Start your journey here to enhance your experience of this pristine wilderness.
A brief summary to Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
- 69 Cron St, Franz Josef / Waiau, 7886, NZ
- +6437520360
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get the most out of your experience.
- Check for any guided tours or special events happening during your visit for a more engaging experience.
- Bring a water bottle and snacks, as exploring the park can take longer than expected.
- Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions in the park.
- Don't forget your camera; the scenery in and around the visitor centre is breathtaking!
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Fox Glacier, take State Highway 6 (SH6) heading south towards Franz Josef. Continue on SH6 for about 27 kilometers (approximately 30 minutes). When you reach Franz Josef, turn left onto Cron Street. The Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre will be on your left at 69 Cron Street. Parking is available nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre using public transportation, catch a bus from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef. The journey typically takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Franz Josef bus stop, walk along Cron Street heading west for about 500 meters (approximately 7 minutes). The Visitor Centre will be on your left at 69 Cron Street. Please check local bus schedules for the latest departure times.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Fox Glacier to the Visitor Centre, you can follow the same route as the driving instructions. It's about a 27-kilometer walk along SH6. This can take several hours, so ensure you're well-prepared with water and snacks. Starting from the center of Fox Glacier, head south on SH6 until you reach Franz Josef. Once in Franz Josef, turn left on Cron Street. The Visitor Centre will be on your left at 69 Cron Street.
Discover more about Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
0.5 km
Discover the gateway to New Zealand's breathtaking glaciers at Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your starting point for unforgettable adventures.
Victoria Falls
14.9 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.
Empress Hut
24.0 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
25.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak in the stunning Southern Alps.
Ball Hut
26.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Copland Shelter
30.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Douglas Rock Hut
32.7 km
Experience the beauty of New Zealand's wilderness at Douglas Rock Hut in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, your perfect outdoor retreat.
Hooker Lake
33.2 km
Explore the stunning Hooker Lake, a glacial gem in Canterbury, surrounded by majestic peaks and vibrant landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Sefton Bivouac
34.9 km
Experience the beauty of the Southern Alps at Sefton Bivouac, a cozy mountain cabin perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
34.9 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.
The Second Swing Bridge
36.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Mueller Lake
36.5 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
White Horse Hill Campground
38.0 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.
Mt Cook Chalets
39.4 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at Mt Cook Chalets, your cozy retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
39.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Glacier, a must-visit destination in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Skydive Franz
0.1 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Skydive Franz, where breathtaking views and thrilling descents create unforgettable memories in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
0.4 km
Experience New Zealand's unique wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education.
Callery Gorge Walk
0.4 km
Explore the Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for breathtaking views, lush forests, and unforgettable natural beauty in New Zealand.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
0.4 km
Discover the Tatare Tunnels Walk: A captivating blend of nature and history in the heart of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Glacier Helicopters Franz Josef Glacier
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with unforgettable aerial views from Glacier Helicopters.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, where glaciers meet lush rainforests in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
0.5 km
Discover stunning landscapes of South Westland through the immersive HELIMAX movie experience at Franz Josef Cinema.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
0.5 km
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line - an unforgettable helicopter and hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
Glacier Country Helicopters
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's glaciers with unforgettable helicopter tours over Franz Josef.
Terrace Walk
0.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a scenic hiking trail with breathtaking views and lush landscapes.
FRANZ JOSEF
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Franz Josef, a premier hiking area in New Zealand renowned for its stunning glacier views and vibrant nature.
Canavans Knob
1.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Canavans Knob in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand - a hiking paradise!
Start Alex Knob Trail
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking Alex Knob Trail in Westland National Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await the adventurous traveler.
Essential places to dine
King Tiger
0.0 km
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Rainforest Retreat
0.2 km
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Monsoon Restaurant
0.2 km
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Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
0.4 km
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
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SnakeBite Brewery
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors at SnakeBite Brewery in Franz Josef - where Asian cuisine meets local brews in a charming setting.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
0.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
16.2 km
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
16.2 km
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Breakfast Restaurant
16.3 km
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The Last Kitchen
16.3 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
16.4 km
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High Peaks Hotel
17.4 km
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Alpine Restaurant
39.4 km
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Chamois Bar & Grill
39.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Glacier Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Fern Grove Gift & Design
0.5 km
Explore Fern Grove Gift & Design for unique NZ souvenirs, stylish apparel, and local treasures in the heart of Franz Josef.
Four Square Franz Josef
0.5 km
Visit Four Square Franz Josef for a unique grocery shopping experience, and stock up on local goods before exploring stunning glaciers and rainforests.
Blucod
0.6 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Packraft New Zealand
2.7 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
2.7 km
Explore the enchanting world of handcrafted tin toys at Real Tin Toys in Franz Josef, a delightful stop for collectors and families.
William Apiaries (Honey)
3.1 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
4.0 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
4.5 km
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
16.2 km
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Cafe Nevé
16.2 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
16.2 km
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Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop
16.2 km
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Experience Fox Glacier
16.2 km
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NPD Fox Glacier Motors
16.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
0.3 km
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The Westhaven Motel
16.1 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
16.2 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
16.3 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
16.3 km
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Rainforest Motel
16.3 km
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Sunset Motel
16.8 km
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Snowline Bar
39.5 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
42.0 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.
Woodstock Hotel
95.6 km
Experience the best of local cuisine and craft brews at the Woodstock Hotel, a cozy bar and grill nestled in the heart of New Zealand's scenic landscape.
Kaniere Hotel
97.2 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
Railway Hotel
97.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Railway Hotel in Hokitika, a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local entertainment.
