Fox Glacier and Around
This glacier got its name from Sir William Fox who visited the glacier in 1872. At that time this man was New Zealand’s prime minister. This glacier is together with its “competitor” Franz Josef geologically very special; at no other place in the world, on the hemisphere these glaciers are situated, are glaciers so close to sea. Fox Village is the best base for exploring the impressive glacier. In contradiction to Franz Josef Village: Fox village has an Alpine village atmosphere; it is not as busy and touristy as Franz Josef. The glaciers and its village are situated in Westland National Park.
Outdoor
Aerial sight seeing
One of the best ways to experience the glacier is to fly above it. You will see the Fox glacier, snow topped mountains, other glaciers, ice caves; you will see the impressive beauty of nature. Many tour operators make a flight including, if conditions allow it, a landing on snow; this is spectacular.
If you are looking for more excitement: make a skydive. With the beautiful mountains, glaciers, rainforest and the Tasman Sea as a view you will be making an excellent skydive; you can’t wish for better scenery to skydive in.
Tramping (and heli flights)
If you want to experience the glacier as intense as possible walking on it is a must. There are several companies offering guided walks (without guide you are not allowed on the glacier). You can choose between the kind of walk and the length of it.
A very nice tour to do is making a guided walk in combination with a heli flight above the beautiful mountains. You will be on the glaciers and you will view it, and much more, from the helicopter.
If you would like to have an excellent view on the glacier without being in the air: you should visit one of the neighboring mountains and make a walk on those. Good spots to go to are Gillespies Beach and Mount Fox.
About a few kilometers from Fox Village is the beautiful Lake Matheson. This is one of the most famous; so one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. It is beautiful to make the one hour walk around the lake.
There are many more walks near the glacier, for more information please visit a DOC or a tourist office.