Steller: Create Beautiful Social Media Stories

Ōkārito

Dive into the enchanting charm of Ōkārito, where golden beaches kiss lush rainforests! Stroll along the stunning coastline, soak in the kaleidoscope of birdlife, and paddle in crystal-clear waters. Don't miss the sprawling lagoon, perfect for kayaking and spotting playful wildlife! This hidden gem is nature's playground—get ready to make unforgettable memories!

From the Community

Recommendations

Landmark4.8/5

Ōkārito Lagoon

Landmark4.7/5

Okarito Trig Walk

Landmark4.4/5

Okarito Lagoon Boat House

Nestled in the serene Okarito Lagoon, the Boat House offers stunning views and easy access to kayaking and wildlife watching, making it an iconic destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Culture4.5/5

Okarito Wharf Building

Nestled in Ōkārito, the historic Wharf Building offers stunning views of the Tasman Sea and access to tranquil kayaking adventures, making it a unique gateway to New Zealand's breathtaking natural beauty.

Landmark4.6/5

Okarito Beach

Renowned for its breathtaking scenery and stunning sunsets, Okarito Beach offers a serene escape with pristine sands, dramatic cliffs, and unrivaled views of the Southern Alps, making it a must-visit destination in New Zealand.

Landmark4.9/5

Okarito Boat Eco Tours

Landmark4.3/5

Donovan's Store

Landmark3.5/5

Okarito Memorial Obelisk

Landmark

Okarito Community Native Plants Trust

Cafe4.8/5

Okarito Kayaks

Stays

Stay5/5

Ōkārito Accommodation Te Wa Whakatā

Nestled in the stunning wilderness, Ōkārito Accommodation Te Wa Whakatā offers breathtaking views of the West Coast's serene landscapes and easy access to the unique Ōkārito Lagoon, making it a must-visit retreat for nature lovers.

Stay5/5

Kotuku Cottage Okarito

Stay4.7/5

Okarito Beach House

Nestled in Ōkārito, the Okarito Beach House offers breathtaking views of the stunning coastline and lush rainforest, providing an unforgettable escape into nature and a unique opportunity to experience New Zealand's pristine beauty.

Stay4.7/5

Okarito School House

Stay4.7/5

Okarito Camp Ground

Stay4.3/5

Code Time Lodge B&B

Nestled in Ōkārito, Code Time Lodge B&B offers a unique blend of cozy charm and breathtaking views, making it an iconic retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers exploring New Zealand’s stunning West Coast.

Things To Do
Provided by

4.7/5

Skip the Line: Franz Josef Wildlife Center Ticket with Optional Backstage Pass

Discover one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences at the West Coast Wildlife Centre — voted one of Lonely Planet’s 12 must-see attractions. Located in Franz Josef, this award-winning indoor, all-weather facility is home to Little Blue Penguins (kororā), the world’s rarest kiwi, and living Tuatara. Get guaranteed daytime kiwi viewing in our nocturnal house, explore the world-class Ambassador Penguin Encounter, and meet New Zealand’s iconic “living fossil.” Enjoy interactive glacier storytelling zones, the best shopping in Franz Josef, free Wi-Fi, and Tripadvisor-recommended coffee in our café. Perfect for all ages and any weather, this is a must-do experience for wildlife lovers, families, and travellers looking to connect with Aotearoa’s unique natural world.

$40.14

5/5

12 h

Franz Josef to Queenstown Small Group Tour via Wanaka 1 -Way

Explore the untamed beauty of New Zealand's Wild West Coast on this small group, fully-guided tour from Franz Josef to Queenstown. Your journey takes you along the rugged beaches of the West Coast, soaking in the dramatic landscapes that make this region so unique. As you traverse the unforgettable Haast Pass, you'll be captivated by the lush rainforests and coastal plains before arriving at the serene, glacier-fed lakes of Wānaka and Hāwea. Led by our passionate guides, this tour goes beyond the destinations, offering secret stops, wildlife viewings and delightful surprises along the way. Travel in comfort with modern minibuses, enjoy complimentary refreshments and enjoy a provided lunch as you journey through one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions. At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, it's the journey, the stories and the small group experience that truly set our tours apart. We also offer tours from Queenstown to Franz Josef, Franz Josef to Christchurch or Christchurch to Franz Josef.

$168.72

5/5

12 h

Christchurch to Franz Josef One Way Day Tour with TranzAlpine

Travel from Christchurch to Franz Josef on one of New Zealand’s most iconic journeys, combining the legendary TranzAlpine train with a fully guided West Coast road trip. Glide through the Southern Alps by rail before meeting your Cheeky Kiwi guide and heading deep into glacier country. From turquoise gorges and wild black-sand beaches to rainforest-fringed lakes, this day is packed with bucket-list scenery. Small groups, passionate guides, and unforgettable landscapes, this is the West Coast done right.

$328.70

5/5

12 h

Christchurch to Franz Josef 1-Way Small Group Tour via Hokitika

Discover New Zealand’s wild West Coast on this unforgettable small group, fully guided day tour from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Journey from the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, and continue along the rugged coastline to the glacier country. With breathtaking scenery, short walks, and authentic Kiwi storytelling along the way, this tour is the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and discovery.

$168.72

5/5

264 h

11 Day Deep South Tour (Christchurch to Christchurch)

Thinking about an 11-day South Island loop from Christchurch? Named after the Takahē, a treasured national bird with vibrant blue-green plumage, once thought to be extinct. This tour offers you unparalleled flexibility, you can start in Christchurch, Picton or Wellington! Our expert guides will take you around the South Island’s highlights and hidden gems in style. Kick off with Abel Tasman's golden beaches and Coastal Track hikes, kayaking turquoise coves. Marvel at Punakaiki's Pancake Rock, then trek Franz Josef's glacier face. Snap the iconic Wānaka tree, then play in our adventure capital, Queenstown, hikes, Fergburgers and nightlife buzz! Cruise past Milford Sound's jaw dropping waterfall, trek the famous Kepler track, then stargaze beneath Aoraki/Mt Cook. Finish off your epic journey with a soak in Tekapo's hot pools and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd. All from the comfort of 3-4 star hotels! Hop on the Takahe Select Tour. Which stop is calling your name?

$2,731.45

5/5

48 h

Christchurch to Queenstown 2-Day Transfer Via Franz Josef

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. This two-day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Franz Josef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes and hidden gems. You’ll enjoy personalized service, small group sizes, and expert local guides who will ensure your journey is as informative as it is exhilarating. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

$337.43

5/5

Okarito Nature Tour

Embark on the Ōkārito Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours and explore New Zealand's South Westland. Just 20 minutes from Franz Josef Glacier, the coastal village of Ōkārito offers superb bird-watching amidst stunning natural diversity. This tour is suitable for all ages and includes a shuttle from Franz Josef or an option to meet in Ōkārito. Guides lead you through lush rainforests, estuaries, sea cliffs, and wetlands, revealing views of the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Tasman, and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover the area's gold mining history and encounter up to 76 bird species such as the white heron, kea, fernbirds, and kakariki. Visit the Ōkārito Community Native Plant Nursery to plant a native tree for our Ōkārito Restoration project. Immerse yourself in Ōkārito's mystique and spectacular sunsets. Book your tour today to uncover Ōkārito's natural wonders!

$69.81

5/5

216 h

9 Day Alpine Adventure Tour (Christchurch to Christchurch)

The Kaka Tour will take you on an epic adventure through the South Island. Jaunt around New Zealand’s most scenic Alpine region. Cross the mighty Southern Alps, take in the soaring heights of Mount Cook, get up close to the epic glaciers of the West Coast and the marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown.

$2,440.56

5/5

40 mins

The GRAND TOUR, snow landing (allow 40 minutes - departing Fox Glacier)

The GRAND TOUR including snow landing (allow 40 minutes) The “grand-daddy” of all flights! Explore both glaciers as well as taking in Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. We top this off by landing you on the snow for photo opportunities. As a bonus, weather permitting we cross the main divide for you to view the Tasman Glacier. This will be your ultimate helicopter scenic flight excursion from Fox or Franz Josef on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Be sure to have plenty of space on your camera memory card and bring your phone as well. You will be amazed by the stunning scenery topped off with the snow landing where you will have the chance to photograph the magnificent scenery. (allow 40 min)

$369.95

5/5

3 h

Tandem Skydive 10,000ft from Franz Josef

Skydive amongst mountains, glaciers, lakes, rivers and ocean views. Skydive Franz has New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook and the biggest glaciers Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers immediately on the right and the wide blue ocean on the left. Multiple departure times. Allow 3 hours for your tandem skydive experience.

$210.95

5/5

1 h

Franz Josef Scenic Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Franz Josef Glacier with this incredible adventure designed for those short on time but big on exploration. Begin your adventure with a scenic Helicopter Flight. Marvel at panoramic views of the West Coast and surrounding mountain ranges. Land on the iconic glacier and spend 15 minutes on the stunning ice with our expert guides, immersing yourself in this iconic natural wonder. This adventure is perfect for all fitness levels: A hassle-free experience that’s accessible to everyone. With exclusive access to the Franz Josef Glacier Guides, we are the only operator permitted to land on the Franz Josef Glacier.

$417.09

5/5

192 h

8 Day Southern Crossing Small Group Tour

Spectacular scenery and lots of opportunity for adventure, this 8 day South Island adventure starts and finishes in the diverse city of Christchurch. Turquoise lakes, majestic glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks and the picture-perfect towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef are all a part of this epic road trip. With accommodation and some activities included (see below), our all-inclusive tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time.

$1,104.80

5/5

8 h

Franz Josef to Wanaka Small-Group Tour (One-Way) Includes Lunch

Experience the ultimate 1 way adventure from Franz Josef to Wanaka. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you from Franz Josef along the beautiful West Coast beaches, over the stunning Haast Pass, and through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

$168.72

5/5

6 h

Greymouth to Franz Josef via Hokitika Small Group Tour One Way

Explore the stunning West Coast on this one-way small group tour from Greymouth to Franz Josef. Franz Josef sits in the heart of New Zealand’s wild West Coast Glacier Country, one of only two places on earth where ancient ice meets lush native forest. Steeped in Māori legend and surrounded by dramatic scenery, it is a destination that feels both powerful and poetic. This one way small group tour from Greymouth showcases the very best of the coast, from black sand beaches to turquoise gorges and serene glacier carved lakes. Led by our fun and knowledgeable guides and travelling in comfort, this journey is designed to be as unforgettable as the landscapes themselves.

$86.68

5/5

72 h

3 Days, Glaciers & TranzAlpine: Christchurch to Queenstown

This immersive three-day journey combines one of the world's greatest scenic rail routes with the raw beauty of New Zealand's West Coast. Travelers glide through the majestic Southern Alps before diving deep into glacier country to experience rare wildlife and lush rainforests firsthand. A guided eco-tour brings the icy landscapes to life, while the final drive down to the adventure capital caps off a stress-free route through the South Island's most dramatic scenery. This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches with commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

$977.39

5/5

96 h

4 Days, Milford Sound and Glaciers: From Christchurch

This sweeping four-day circuit showcases the absolute best of the South Island by seamlessly connecting dramatic alpine landscapes with premium guided transport. What makes it genuinely special is the combination of small-group road touring through rugged glacier valleys with a majestic cruise on Milford Sound and a world-class rail journey. It delivers maximum scenic reward, taking travellers effortlessly from striking turquoise lakes to deep fiords and wild coastlines without the stress of navigating.

$1,599.89

5/5

13 h

Franz Josef to Christchurch via Hokitika (1 way)

Situated in the heart of the South Island, Christchurch, or Ōtautahi, is a stellar example of what happens when urban innovation collides with nature, heritage, and culture. With plenty to see and do from the mountains to the sea, the city is a great place to base yourself while exploring the wider regional highlights, such as Akaroa, Kaikoura, and Hanmer Springs. So why not join us as we travel the Great Alpine Highway from New Zealand’s west to east coast, experiencing the very best of what the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) and rugged West Coast has to offer as we make our way to Christchurch on this 1 way tour. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!

$159.99

5/5

8 h

Wanaka to Franz Josef Small-Group Tour (One Way) Includes Lunch

Experience the ultimate 1 way adventure from Wanaka to Franz Josef. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes, over the stunning Haast Pass, and along the beautiful West Coast beaches to Franz Josef. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

$168.72

5/5

12 h

Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka Small Group Day Tour (1-Way)

Experience a guided one-way journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka, Haast Pass and the West Coast. Travel in a small group capped at 15 travellers, taking in Lake Wānaka, Lake Hāwea, the Blue Pools Track, Thunder Creek Falls and Lake Matheson, with a passionate local guide bringing the journey to life along the way. Enjoy secret stops, wildlife sightings and plenty of surprises along the way, with lunch, snacks and bottled water provided. Travel in comfort in a modern minibus before finishing your journey in Franz Josef.

$168.72

5/5

168 h

Small Group Southern Voyager 7 Days Tour

Journey through New Zealand's natural wonderland on a 7-day road trip through the South Island. Have the chance to explore some of the best spots in Queenstown, the adventure capital! Whether thats Jumping out of a plane, zipling through the trees or relaxing in the city centre with a hot cocoa. Head to Franz Josef to hike the Glacier or visit an iconic, up-close Kiwi in the Wildlife Centre. cruise through the beautiful Milford Sound and discover the spectacular Tekapo through some of its most famous lakes and hikes, then spend the evening relaxing in the Tekapo Hot Springs.