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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Copland Shelter
21.8 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Hooker Lake
24.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Douglas Rock Hut
24.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Douglas Rock Hut, your perfect lodge in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
25.3 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Sefton Bivouac
25.9 km
Discover Sefton Bivouac in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a serene mountain cabin perfect for hikers seeking adventure and breathtaking alpine views.
The Second Swing Bridge
27.1 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.
Mueller Lake
27.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mueller Lake in Canterbury, New Zealand, where glacial waters meet majestic mountain landscapes.
White Horse Hill Campground
28.7 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.
Mt Cook Chalets
30.1 km
Experience the tranquility and stunning beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park while staying at the cozy Mt Cook Chalets, your perfect alpine getaway.
Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar
30.2 km
Discover culinary delights and stunning views at Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand.
Unmissable attractions to see
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where glaciers meet rainforests, and adventure awaits at every turn.
Trident Creek Falls
5.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Trident Creek Falls, a hidden oasis in New Zealand's West Coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
5.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier Walk, an unforgettable hiking experience in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Robert's Point Track
6.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Robert's Point Track, a must-visit hiking trail in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand.
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.
Fox Glacier Heli Hiking
8.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier through an unforgettable heli hiking adventure in New Zealand's stunning Westland District.
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.
Glacier Country Helicopters
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's glaciers with unforgettable helicopter tours over Franz Josef.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
9.3 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.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
9.3 km
Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Franz Josef Glacier with The Helicopter Line, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
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 stunning landscapes of South Westland through the immersive HELIMAX movie experience at Franz Josef Cinema.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
9.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, where glaciers meet lush rainforests in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
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
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NPD Fox Glacier Motors
14.4 km
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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.
