Franz Josef Glacier and Around
This glacier is together with the Fox Glacier one of the main attractions of New Zealand. Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are part of Westland National Park. The glacier is very special because nowhere else in the world, at New Zealand’s Westcoasts altitude, are glaciers so close to the sea; in this case the Tasman Sea. This glacier was explored in 1865. The glacier is located 5km from the village Franz Josef. This nice and busy tourist village is the perfect base to explore the magnificent and very popular glacier.
Outdoor
Aerial sight seeing
Flying above the snow topped mountains and impressive glaciers, ice formations, ice caves; name it, is a very recommendable experience. Most tour operators offering these flights will make a landing on the snow in the “middle of nowhere” this will provide you to opportunity to enjoy the view and to capture it on your camera.
Kayaking
At lake Mapourika you can attend a kayak trip. During this trip you will have some magnificent views on the impressive landscape, including the glaciers’ mountains.
Mountainbiking and cycling
In Franz Josef Village you will be able to rent a bike. The tourist information centre has some information about biking in this beautiful area.
Tramping (and heli flights)
When driving up to the glacier there are several good viewpoints which can be reached by foot. Examples are the Sentinel Rock and Douglas Walk. There are also long day walks in the area of the glacier: Roberts Point and Terrace Track. Most of the tracks provide excellent views on the glacier.
The best way to experience the glacier is to make a walk on it. If you would like to do this, you should book a tour, you will get an experienced guide and if necessary certain clothes provided. Half and full days are the options to choose of after having chosen wheather you would do a glacier or an ice climbing trip.
Another very spectacular option is to combine a heli flight with a glacier walk. When doing this you will get excellent views on the snow topped mountains full with glaciers, ice formations and blue ice caves.
For more tramping concerned information please visit the nearest DOC or the tourist center.