Franz Josef

Glacier Valley Shuttle

You will be met at your accommodation by a representative from Glacier Shuttles and taken on a short tour to view the glacier. Your shuttle vehicle will transfer you up the Franz Josef valley to the road end. Here you will have the opportunity to walk to view the glacier from a viewing platform. Or enjoy one of the short walks available in this area. You will be returned to your accommodation by the Glacier Valley Shuttles.

Franz Josef Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours

Nestled in thick historic West Coast forest and a stone's throw from wild black sand beaches, this is one of the world's most unusual glaciers. Beautiful blue skies or magical misty rain, whatever the weather you will feel like you are in Narnia or LOTR.
With easy walking at your pace, information on glaciology, geology, geomorphology, flora and fauna, local legends, history, and small guided groups with fantastic guides, you will experience this glacier in style and in the best hands with the only local company. Wander past glacier rivers and streams and through beautiful podocarp forest; discover hidden natural treasures such as native snails, wild native mushrooms, and dozens of species of native orchids; listen to native bird song and waterfalls; see if you can spot a Chamois or a Tahr on the huge snow-capped mountains above while drinking a cup of tea and talking one-on-one with your guide.

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides

After a thrilling scenic flight, high above the rugged terrain, you will land on the glacier, ready to undertake a 2.15 hour  guided glacier hike. Your friendly guide will lead you through some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacial scenery in the world. Your guide will choose your route carefully as you go and, with an eye for the most spectacular ice formations, you’ll soon be making your way through an extraordinary landscape of towering peaks and glistening blue ice.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity prior to travel. For more information please see here.

48 Hour General Pass with West Coast Wildlife Centre

Meet and discover New Zealand's rarest kiwi, the Rowi at the West Coast Wildlife Centre. This is a unique and interactive experience that brings together nature, conservation, and wildlife all under one roof. This all-weather attraction is fun for all ages to explore and takes place against the stunning backdrop of the Franz Josef Glacier.

Lake Matheson Nature Tour

Nature has combine three ingredients to create the stunning vista that is Lake Matheson. Explore the crystal clear waters and learn about flora, fauna, glaciation, geology and natural history of this beautiful area.
You'll be collected from your accommodation in Franz Josef and driven to the stunning Lake Matheson, where you'll walk the 3km gentle track that follows the lake edge. Along the way take in the reflective qualities of the lake and the surrounding lush rainforest which make for fantastic photo opportunities.

Off-Road Quad Bike Adventure Tour with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Experience an unforgettable off-road journey through lush rainforest, riverbeds, and breathtaking glacier landscapes, including views of the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier. With expert guides providing gear, training, and fascinating Māori legends, you’ll enjoy an exciting quad bike or buggy ride tailored to all skill levels. Choose from single, double, or family-friendly three-seater buggies for an adventure perfect for everyone.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson Tour

Explore the remarkable Fox Glacier and the crystal clear waters of Lake Matheson during this enjoyable day tour. You’ll be collected from your accommodation and drive towards Fox Glacier. You’ll then walk a track which runs through the lush historic glaciated rainforest in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, with focal points of huge rata, rimu trees and moss.
Views of Fox Glacier, Fox neve, Mt Tasman, one of NZ's highest mountains. Enjoy a cup of tea with a view and the opportunity to chat with your knowledgeable local guide. Information on glaciation, geothermology (inc geothermal spring to dip your hand in) geology, flora and fauna. Please note this tour does not get close or to view the terminal face of the glacier due to safety reasons.
Then head to the iconic Lake Matheson in the evening - renowned for its majestic mirror-like reflections this time of day. Treasure hunt with your knowledgeable guide for fungi, native orchids and native birds. Stop for a cup of tea and a chat with the picturesque landscape of Lake Matheson. This lake is a non-commercial and protected lake, part of the UNESCO World Heritage area and therefore you won't be disturbed by kayakers or noisy jet boats.

One Hour Private Tub with Waiho Hot Tubs

Relax and unwind in the soothing comfort of fresh, warm water and aromatic wood smoke. Enjoy your own private tubs, nestled in a lush rainforest setting on New Zealand’s West Coast. These wood-fired hot tubs combine the soothing comfort of warm water with the unique atmosphere of wood smoke to give you an unforgettable experience.

Mountain Scenic Spectacular Flight with The Helicopter Line

The premier flight! Experience two of New Zealand's finest national parks and encounter the gigantic expanse of both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. Take in the towering ice formations and top it off with a snow landing and the chance to set foot on snow and breath the clean alpine air. Along the way, get to see the Tasman Glacier and get close to Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak. Duration of helicopter flight is 40 minutes.

Neve Discoverer Scenic Flight with The Helicopter Line

The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glaciers and touch snow. You'll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef and experience the solitude of a landing in this natural alpine wonderland. Duration - 20 Minutes. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

The Grand Traverse Scenic Flight with Air Safaris

The flight of a lifetime, the "Grand Traverse" is a spectacular scenic flight seeing experience allowing you to explore the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks. This magnificent flight encompasses two World Heritage National Parks and 200 km of New Zealand's most memorable and spectacular scenery. The contrast of colours is beautiful with the turquoise glacial lake against the tussock covered sheep stations. Your journey will bring you over Aoraki Mt Cook National park where you view New Zealand's longest glacier, The Tasman. From there you cross the main divide into the Westland National Park encompassing the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers which spill down to the rainforests of the west coast. Their large and varied fleet especially selected for New Zealand air tour sightseeing ensures that every passenger has a window seat and all aircraft have wings-above to ensure optimum viewing below. Pilots provide a full and informative commentary with multi-language commentary brochures supplied.

Fox and Franz Josef Twin Glacier with Glacier Helicopters

Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations - landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories. Duration is 30 minutes.

Kayak and Walk with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Explore the Jurassic rainforest and kiwi sanctuary on a private rainforest trail. Exclusively accessed by kayak and boat you’ll experience the pure remote wilderness of Lake Mapourika. Hot drinks provided, with an unbeatable panorama of the glaciers across the lake.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Skydive Franz - 20000ft Jump

Nestled between New Zealand's highest mountains, the Tasman Sea, stunning temperate rainforest, glowing glaciers, mirror lakes and braided river beds, Franz Josef Glacier has been described as one of the most beautiful places on earth and the perfect location for your New Zealand Skydive. Tandem skydiving is the fastest, easiest and safest way for an inexperienced skydiver to enjoy the thrill of jumping out of a plane, free falling through the sky at 200kph/120mph and floating safely to the ground under a parachute. The system includes a harness and parachute system for both the passenger and the instructor to share, so you can simply enjoy the thrill of the experience knowing your instructor has everything under control for your Tandem NZ Skydive.

Franz Josef Glacier Adventure with Franz Josef Glacier Guides - Lunch Included

This exciting experience is for anyone seeking a private on-ice adventure. This activity includes a longer flight than most (10 minutes) as you fly over the glacier's neve area. On landing, the knowledgeable and experienced qualified NZMGA Hard Ice Guide will demonstrate their skills on the glacier. With no set tracks and a maximum of 4 guests per guide, guests will be taken through spectacular ice formations and crevasses. Guides will cater to the groups preferences making this a truly bespoke experience. Should the opportunity present itself guests will be able to explore different ice formations by walking through caves, and if you wish having a go at ice climbing.
All equipment required for this adventure is included in the cost, plus the helicopter transfers lunch and drinks.
Participants must be 14 years and older.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity prior to travel. For more information please see here.

Franz Josef Glacier Encounter with Franz Josef Glacier Guides

Experience the best of both worlds with Franz Josef Glacier Encounter. Departing Franz Josef, you will head on a breathtaking helicopter flight taking you over the lush rainforest to the upper areas of Franz Josef Glacier. Take in the views of the Tasman Sea, wild West Coast shoreline, and native bush, through to the stunning expanse of the Southern Alps. Spend time on one of the most remarkable glaciers in the world, a spectacular natural landscape thousands of years in the making.
You’ll fly up and around historical Almer Hut then continue towards the Franz Josef Neve and Centennial Hut before landing on the icefall at around 1300m. Here you will disembark onto the glacier for some incredible photo opportunities and stories of the region from your experienced guide.
The perfect experience for anyone looking to connect with this iconic destination, learn about this exceptional natural phenomenon, and take home some memories that will last a lifetime. 
Participants must be 4 years and older.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity prior to travel. For more information please see here.

Franz Josef Glacier Heli Ice Climb

Your climb starts with a scenic helicopter transfer up onto the glacier; a great chance to take in the full panoramic majesty of the glacier and surrounding mountains. Ice climbing at Franz Josef is a day packed with excitement and adventure. Under the expert tuition of some of New Zealand's most experienced ice climbers, you will learn the skills and techniques you need to carefully and comfortably climb the glacier. A great way to introduce you to the exhilarating sport of ice climbing under the watchful eye of the expert team. Your guide will tailor the day to challenge novices and experts alike. No experience necessary, ice climbing, is a challenging sport however and you'll need a good level of fitness, flexibility and agility to complete this trip.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity prior to travel. For more information please see here.

Kayak Classic with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Glide effortlessly across the water taking in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and untouched Jurassic rainforest reflected on the glassy waters of Lake Mapourika. Paddle into the heart of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, exploring the protected area with your knowledgeable guide.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Off-Road Discovery Tour with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Enjoy an off-road adventure through some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes. Traverse riverbeds and lush rainforests along scenic, beginner-friendly tracks. Sit back and ride in a guided 5-seater buggy or speak to our Sales Consultant to drive your own quad bike. Explore the enchanting Jurassic rainforest, splash through crystal-clear rivers, and take in the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and the majestic Franz Josef Glacier.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Okarito Lagoon Guided Kayak Trip with Okarito Kayaks

Okarito, New Zealand's largest unmodified coastal wetland covers 3240 hectares of open water and is known for its rare New Zealand birds such as the White Heron and Royal Spoonbill. On this tour, you'll explore the open water and river channels by kayak leading you deep into the heart of the rainforest. On a clear day, you'll enjoy awe-inspiring views of Mt Cook and the Southern Alps.
Your guide will then take you to several popular spots where you'll discover the flora, fauna, and history of the lagoon.

Pilot's Choice 35 minute Glacier Scenic Flight with Glacier Country Helicopters

Experience the ultimate scenic helicopter flight and glacier landing in New Zealand’s world famous Glacier Region. Pilots choice includes two scenic flights and a snow landing. Depending on the day you will either fly over Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier and the Tasman Glacier with Glacier Country Helicopters.

Private Kayak Tour with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Experience the of luxury of a private kayak tour. Delve into the ancient beauty of Westland’s pristine rainforest, with a local knowledgeable kayak guide.
Witness the wonders of kiwi conservation up close on our bespoke rainforest trail and encounter an array of native birdlife. Or if you prefer to paddle more your guide will show you hidden creeks that await your discovery – the choice is yours as this tour is designed just for you. Our expert kayak hosts will pack warm water for a cup of tea or coffee along the way, and snap high quality photographs for you throughout your journey.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

VIP Guided Backstage Pass Tour with West Coast Wildlife Centre

The VIP Backstage Pass Tour is a combo ticket that combines the All Day 48-Hour General Pass PLUS the VIP Guided Backstage Pass Tour. This is a fully guided tour with one of our Wildlife Rangers through the incubation and rearing facility where you will learn about the history and successes of the Operation Nest Egg program. Plus you will also go behind the scenes to see our Tuatara Encounter – where we look after 7 Tuatara and you will have the opportunity to meet them close up!

Walking tracks in and around Franz Josef

Franz Josef offers many walks and hikes. Below are options from the Department of Conservation (DOC). Visit the DOC info center in Franz Josef Village for updates on track conditions, and suitability, and to learn about the area’s natural history and people. Be sure to check the conditions before heading out.
Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere Walk
Completion Time: 1 hr 30 min return
Lake Wombat Track
Completion Time: 1 hr 30 min
Sentinel Rock Walk
Completion Time: 20 min
Tatare Tunnels Walk
Completion Time: 1 hr 20 min return