Discover the Enigmatic Tatare Tunnels Walk
Explore the Tatare Tunnels Walk, a scenic journey through lush rainforests to intriguing historical relics in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
Nestled within the stunning landscapes of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, the Tatare Tunnels Walk offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. This scenic journey takes you through lush rainforests and past dramatic cliffs, culminating in the fascinating Tatare Tunnels, remnants of an old gold mining operation. The walk is not just a hike; it's a gateway to explore the rich history and untouched beauty of New Zealand's wilderness, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility alike.
A brief summary to Tatare Tunnels Walk
- 21 Cowan St, Franz Josef / Waiau, 7886, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably.
- Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore inside the Tatare Tunnels.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and better chances to spot wildlife.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as the path can be slippery when wet.
Getting There
-
Car
From Fox Glacier, head south on State Highway 6 towards Franz Josef. After approximately 24 kilometers, you will reach the township of Franz Josef. Turn left onto Cowan Street, which is located just before the information center. Continue on Cowan Street, and you will find the Tatare Tunnels Walk car park on your left. There is no entry fee for parking, and the walk starts from this location.
-
Public Transportation
If you prefer public transport, you can take a shuttle bus from Fox Glacier to Franz Josef. Several tour operators run services that connect these two towns. Make sure to check the schedule in advance. Once you arrive in Franz Josef, walk down Cowan Street towards the Tatare Tunnels Walk car park, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from the bus drop-off point.
Discover more about Tatare Tunnels Walk
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
0.3 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.
Victoria Falls
14.6 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
23.6 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
24.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak in the stunning Southern Alps.
Ball Hut
26.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Ball Hut, your perfect mountain retreat in New Zealand.
Copland Shelter
30.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Copland Shelter, a mountain cabin in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by stunning alpine landscapes.
Douglas Rock Hut
32.3 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
32.8 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
34.5 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
34.5 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
36.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Second Swing Bridge in Mount Cook National Park, where stunning landscapes and adventure await at every turn.
Mueller Lake
36.1 km
Explore Mueller Lake: A hidden gem in Canterbury, New Zealand, where breathtaking views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
White Horse Hill Campground
37.6 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
39.0 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
39.0 km
Discover the Sir Edmund Hillary Cafe & Bar, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Callery Gorge Walk
0.0 km
Explore the Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park for breathtaking views, lush forests, and unforgettable natural beauty in New Zealand.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
0.2 km
Experience New Zealand's unique wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to conservation and education.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, where glaciers meet lush rainforests in New Zealand's stunning landscape.
Glacier Helicopters Franz Josef Glacier
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef Glacier with unforgettable aerial views from Glacier Helicopters.
The Helicopter Line Franz Josef Glacier
0.2 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
0.2 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.
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
0.3 km
Discover stunning landscapes of South Westland through the immersive HELIMAX movie experience at Franz Josef Cinema.
Glacier Country Helicopters
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's glaciers with unforgettable helicopter tours over Franz Josef.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Franz Josef Glacier, a must-visit destination in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Terrace Walk
0.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, a scenic hiking trail with breathtaking views and lush landscapes.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre
0.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Westland Tai Poutini National Park at its Visitor Centre, your gateway to adventure and exploration.
Skydive Franz
0.5 km
Discover the ultimate adventure at Skydive Franz, where breathtaking views and thrilling descents create unforgettable memories in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
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!
FRANZ JOSEF
1.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Franz Josef, a premier hiking area in New Zealand renowned for its stunning glacier views and vibrant nature.
Start Alex Knob Trail
2.8 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
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
0.1 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking glacier views at Alice May Restaurant in Franz Josef.
SnakeBite Brewery
0.2 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
0.2 km
Experience the best of New Zealand's cuisine at The Landing Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef – where fresh flavors meet breathtaking views.
Monsoon Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Monsoon Restaurant in Franz Josef – where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Rainforest Retreat
0.3 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar in Franz Josef—where local flavors meet international culinary excellence.
King Tiger
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar
16.0 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Sir William Fox Restaurant & Bar in Fox Glacier.
The White Pub Cafe & Bar
16.0 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
16.0 km
Experience a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant in Fox Glacier, offering delicious dishes and warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.
The Last Kitchen
16.1 km
Experience exceptional dining at The Last Kitchen - where local flavors meet stunning views in Fox Glacier.
Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
16.2 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.
High Peaks Hotel
17.2 km
Experience comfort and adventure at High Peaks Hotel in Fox Glacier – your gateway to breathtaking natural beauty and memorable dining.
Alpine Restaurant
39.0 km
Experience exceptional buffet dining with breathtaking mountain views at the Alpine Restaurant in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Chamois Bar & Grill
39.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Chamois Bar & Grill amidst breathtaking landscapes in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fern Grove Gift & Design
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.3 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
The Glacier Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Glacier Shop in Franz Josef, capturing the essence of New Zealand's natural beauty.
Packraft New Zealand
3.0 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
3.1 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.
Franz Josef Glacier Car Park
4.1 km
Experience the beauty of Franz Josef Glacier Car Park, your gateway to New Zealand's stunning glacier landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Te Koha Gallery - Jade Carving and Gem Stones
4.1 km
Explore the art of jade carving and discover stunning gem stones at Te Koha Gallery in Franz Josef, New Zealand.
Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon
16.0 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
16.0 km
Discover Café Nevé in Fox Glacier for a cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning views, perfect for a relaxing break in nature.
On the Spot Fox Glacier
16.0 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
16.0 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
16.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
16.1 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
15.9 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
16.0 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
16.0 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
16.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Rainforest Motel
16.1 km
Experience the beauty of Fox Glacier at Rainforest Motel, your cozy base for adventure in New Zealand's stunning nature.
Sunset Motel
16.6 km
Discover scenic beauty and comfort at Sunset Motel in Fox Glacier, your perfect base for exploring New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Snowline Bar
39.0 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
41.6 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
95.9 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
97.5 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
Railway Hotel
97.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Railway Hotel in Hokitika, a perfect spot for drinks, dining, and local entertainment.
