Franz Josef Glacier: A Majestic Natural Wonder
Experience the stunning beauty of Franz Josef Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand.
Nestled within the stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Franz Josef Glacier is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates tourists with its majestic ice formations and lush rainforest surroundings. This glacier is not just a sight to behold; it offers a variety of walking tracks, guided tours, and opportunities for adventure. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual visitor, the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier will leave you in awe and provide memories to last a lifetime.
A brief summary to Franz Josef Glacier
- Westland Tai Poutini National Park, West Coast, Westland District, 7886, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your guided glacier tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary dramatically throughout the day.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas, but be mindful of your surroundings while hiking.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit, as they can affect accessibility to the glacier.
- Consider a helicopter tour for a unique perspective and to see parts of the glacier that are otherwise inaccessible.
Getting There
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Car
From Fox Glacier, start on Fox Glacier Road heading east. Continue straight for approximately 23 kilometers (about 30 minutes). You'll pass through lush rainforest and scenic views. Pay attention to the road signs directing you to Franz Josef Glacier. Once you reach the end of the road, you'll arrive at the Franz Josef Glacier access area, where you can find parking. Note that parking may incur a fee, typically around NZD 5 to NZD 10.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, check with local bus services, such as the Franz Josef Glacier Shuttle. Buses typically depart from Fox Glacier and take around 30 minutes to reach the Franz Josef Glacier area. Tickets can cost approximately NZD 25 one-way. Be sure to check the schedule in advance as service times may vary.
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Walking
For those who enjoy a good hike, once you arrive at the Franz Josef Glacier access area, you can walk to the glacier itself. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 30 minutes) from the car park. Follow the well-marked trails that lead you through the forest and offer stunning views of the glacier. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water.
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
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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
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The Last Kitchen
14.3 km
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
14.4 km
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Breakfast Restaurant
14.4 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
14.6 km
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High Peaks Hotel
16.0 km
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Alpine Restaurant
30.2 km
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Chamois Bar & Grill
30.5 km
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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
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Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
14.3 km
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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
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
14.2 km
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The Westhaven Motel
14.3 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
14.3 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
14.4 km
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Rainforest Motel
14.5 km
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Sunset Motel
15.2 km
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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.
