Activities, Glacier Tours, Heli-Hike New Zealand
The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the pick of New Zealand’s West Coast Glaciers.
From its origins high in the Southern Alps, the Franz Josef Glacier descends deep into the lush rainforest of Westland’s National Park, from a height of 2700m above sea level to only 240m in as little as 11 km, making it the worlds steepest and fastest flowing commercially guided glacier.
The glacier is 5km from the town of the same name, and a 20 minute walk will take you to its terminal face. From the glacier car park, you can hike to a choice of lookout points for a bigger view of this awesome river of ice. If you want to actually make contact with the glacier, take a guided ice walk or a heli-hike. Aerial sightseeing is another option.
In the town you’ll find plenty of places to stay and eat. Or experience the hot pools - nestled in lush rainforest, the Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of natural tranquility and the perfect way for visitors to unwind and experience a blissful state of pure relaxation after travelling along Te Tai o Poutini (The West Coast) or enjoying one of its many attractions.
