Explore the Majestic Franz Josef Glacier
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier, a stunning natural wonder perfect for adventure and exploration in New Zealand's West Coast.
Franz Josef Glacier is a breathtaking natural wonder located in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park. This glacier offers tourists a unique opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of ice formations and explore its surroundings through various activities. Whether you're hiking, taking a scenic helicopter ride, or simply enjoying the views, Franz Josef Glacier promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
A brief summary to Franz Josef Glacier Guides
- Te Ao Marama, Glacier Base, 63 cron street Franz Josef Glacier Franz Josef Glacier, Franz Josef / Waiau, 7886, NZ
- +6437520763
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your guided hike or helicopter tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots for comfort and safety while exploring the glacier.
- Don't forget your camera! The scenery is breathtaking and you'll want to capture the stunning views.
- Check the weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in this region.
- Visit the local visitor center to learn more about the glacier's history and the best trails available.
Getting There
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Car
From Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 (SH6) for approximately 25 kilometers (about 30 minutes). Follow the signs for Franz Josef Glacier. As you approach the town, turn left onto Cron Street. Continue for about 500 meters until you reach Te Ao Marama, Glacier Base, which is located at 63 Cron Street. There is parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transport, check the local bus schedule for services between Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. The bus ride typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Once you arrive in Franz Josef, you can walk to Te Ao Marama, Glacier Base, which is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Simply head north on Cron Street until you reach 63 Cron Street.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more convenient option, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare service from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef Glacier. The journey is approximately 25 kilometers and should take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Franz Josef Glacier Guides
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
0.5 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.
Robert's Point Track
3.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Robert's Point Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand with stunning views of Fox Glacier and lush rainforests.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
4.5 km
Discover the enchanting Franz Josef Glacier Walk, a must-see hiking destination showcasing stunning glaciers and lush rainforests in New Zealand.
Victoria Falls
14.9 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
15.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with Heli Hiking, an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's stunning West Coast.
Glacier Helicopters Fox Glacier
16.2 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
16.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with expert-led tours and unforgettable adventures in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
Minnehaha Walk
16.4 km
Discover the stunning Minnehaha Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
17.7 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.
Lake Matheson Walk
18.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Matheson Walk, a serene hiking trail featuring stunning reflections of the Southern Alps in New Zealand.
Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View
23.0 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Fox Glacier at Te kopikopiko o te waka Peak View, a top scenic spot in New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Mt Cook
23.9 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.
Empress Hut
23.9 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 National Park
24.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
25.2 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
West Coast Wildlife Centre
0.4 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.
Callery Gorge Walk
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
0.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical intrigue of Tatare Tunnels Walk in New Zealand's stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's landscapes at the Alpine Adventure Centre's HELIMAX cinema experience in Franz Josef.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
0.5 km
Embark on a breathtaking helicopter journey over Franz Josef Glacier, witnessing its stunning ice formations and majestic landscapes from above.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Heli Hike
0.5 km
Discover the majestic Franz Josef Glacier with an unforgettable helicopter hike, where stunning views and adventure await in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Terrace Walk
0.7 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
FRANZ JOSEF
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand, home to stunning glaciers and lush alpine landscapes.
Canavans Knob
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
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.
Alex knob track
4.0 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.
Trident Creek Falls
5.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Trident Creek Falls, a stunning waterfall near Franz Josef Glacier, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
docherty creek
5.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Docherty Creek, a hidden gem in New Zealand's Franz Josef region, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Franz Josef Glacier
9.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier in New Zealand, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
12.9 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.
Essential places to dine
King Tiger
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Rainforest Retreat
0.2 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Monsoon Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
0.3 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
The Landing Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
SnakeBite Brewery
0.4 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
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
16.2 km
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The Last Kitchen
16.3 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
16.3 km
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High Peaks Hotel
17.3 km
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Alpine Restaurant
39.4 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
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
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.5 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
Packraft New Zealand
2.8 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
2.8 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
4.4 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
16.1 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon, a must-visit restaurant in Fox Glacier, New Zealand, offering delicious local cuisine.
Cafe Nevé
16.2 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
16.2 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
16.2 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand at the Fox Glacier Guiding Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Experience Fox Glacier
16.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
16.3 km
Discover the convenience of NPD Fox Glacier Motors, your essential stop for fuel and supplies in the captivating Fox Glacier region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
0.3 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.
The Westhaven Motel
16.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
16.2 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
16.2 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
16.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Rainforest Motel
16.3 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
16.8 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
39.4 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
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
97.3 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
Railway Hotel
97.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Railway Hotel in Hokitika, a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
16.7 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
39.4 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
39.7 km
Discover the exhilarating world of heliskiing at Mount Cook, New Zealand's premier ski resort nestled in stunning alpine beauty.
