Explore the Wonders of the West Coast Wildlife Centre
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.
The West Coast Wildlife Centre is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's unique wildlife and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled in the heart of Franz Josef, this attraction offers an unforgettable experience, particularly for those interested in conservation and native species, including the famous Kiwi. With engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff, visitors will gain insight into the local ecosystem and the important work being done to preserve it.
A brief summary to West Coast Wildlife Centre
- Cnr Cron and, Cowan St, Franz Josef / Waiau, 7886, NZ
- +6437520600
- 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 during feeding times for an up-close experience with the wildlife.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through various exhibits and outdoor areas.
- Check the centre's website for any special events or guided tours.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, the West Coast Wildlife Centre is located at the corner of Cron and Cowan Streets in Franz Josef. From Greymouth, take State Highway 6 south for approximately 1.5 hours. As you approach Franz Josef, continue straight onto Franz Josef Glacier Road. Turn left onto Cowan Street, and you will find the centre on your left at the corner with Cron Street. There is parking available on-site, but be mindful of any parking fees in nearby areas.
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Public Transportation
For those relying on public transportation, you can take a bus from Greymouth to Franz Josef. The InterCity bus service runs regularly and takes about 2.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Franz Josef bus stop, it's about a 10-minute walk to the West Coast Wildlife Centre. Head east on State Highway 6, turn left onto Cowan Street, and the centre will be on your left at the corner with Cron Street. Make sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time for the latest departure times.
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Walking
If you are already in the Franz Josef area, the West Coast Wildlife Centre is easily accessible by foot. From the town center, head east on State Highway 6, then turn left onto Cowan Street. The centre is located at the corner of Cowan and Cron Streets. This walk should take approximately 10-15 minutes, making it a pleasant stroll to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Discover more about West Coast Wildlife Centre
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
0.2 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
3.4 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
4.1 km
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Victoria Falls
14.5 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
15.1 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
15.9 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
15.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fox Glacier with expert-led tours and unforgettable adventures in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
Minnehaha Walk
16.1 km
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Fox Glacier South Side walk (start point)
17.4 km
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Lake Matheson Walk
18.5 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
22.8 km
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Mt Cook
23.5 km
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Empress Hut
23.6 km
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Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
23.9 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
24.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Franz Josef Cinema featuring "Westland Wonderland" 40 minute HELIMAX movie of SouthWestand
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover the majestic Franz Josef Glacier with an unforgettable helicopter hike, where stunning views and adventure await in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Tatare Tunnels Walk
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Callery Gorge Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park – a perfect hiking escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides
0.4 km
Explore Franz Josef Glacier with expert guides, exciting helicopter tours, and breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Terrace Walk
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Terrace Walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer.
Canavans Knob
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Canavans Knob, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
FRANZ JOSEF
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand, home to stunning glaciers and lush alpine landscapes.
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.
Alex knob track
3.6 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
5.0 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
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Franz Josef Glacier
9.4 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
12.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef
0.1 km
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The Landing Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
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SnakeBite Brewery
0.1 km
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Monsoon Restaurant
0.2 km
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Rainforest Retreat
0.2 km
Experience unparalleled hospitality at Rainforest Retreat – where nature meets comfort in Franz Josef's stunning landscapes.
Blue Ice Restaurant & Bar
0.2 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
15.9 km
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The White Pub Cafe & Bar
15.9 km
Experience delightful local flavors at The White Pub Cafe & Bar in Fox Glacier—your perfect dining retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.
Breakfast Restaurant
15.9 km
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The Last Kitchen
16.0 km
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Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar
16.1 km
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High Peaks Hotel
17.0 km
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Alpine Restaurant
39.0 km
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Chamois Bar & Grill
39.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fern Grove Gift & Design
0.1 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
0.1 km
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The Glacier Shop
0.1 km
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Blucod
0.2 km
Discover the freshest seafood at Blucod in Franz Josef, where quality meets the beauty of New Zealand's coast.
William Apiaries (Honey)
3.0 km
Discover the sweet taste of New Zealand at William Apiaries, your destination for exquisite local honey and bee products in Franz Josef.
Packraft New Zealand
3.1 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.
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
4.1 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
15.9 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
15.9 km
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On the Spot Fox Glacier
15.9 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
15.9 km
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Experience Fox Glacier
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Explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier, New Zealand, with convenient bicycle rentals for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
NPD Fox Glacier Motors
16.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moa Bar
0.1 km
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The Westhaven Motel
15.8 km
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Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
15.9 km
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Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
15.9 km
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Bella Vista Fox Glacier
16.0 km
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Rainforest Motel
16.0 km
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Sunset Motel
16.5 km
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Snowline Bar
39.1 km
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NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
41.6 km
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Woodstock Hotel
96.0 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
97.6 km
Experience the quirky charm and warm hospitality of Kaniere Hotel, the local pub with a welcoming ambiance perfect for tourists.
Railway Hotel
97.8 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
16.5 km
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Tasman Glacier Skiing
39.0 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
39.3 km
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