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Franz Josef/Waiau

This South Island village sits between the Southern Alps and temperate rainforest. Franz Josef Glacier descends from the mountains into the forest.

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Recommendations

Landmark4.6/5

Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier, located in the stunning West Coast of New Zealand, is nature's jaw-dropping masterpiece. This icy wonderland offers an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seeking travelers. Strap on your crampons and get ready to channel your inner explorer as you hike through ancient ice formations and witness dramatic crevasses. Don't forget your camera, because you'll want to capture every magical moment of this frozen playground.

Landmark4.2/5

West Coast Wildlife Centre

This wildlife center cares for rowi kiwi and rescued little blue penguins. You walk through a dark enclosure to see rowi up close.

Landmark4.7/5

Glacier Country Helicopters

Experience breathtaking aerial views of New Zealand's stunning glaciers with Glacier Country Helicopters in Franz Josef, where thrilling flights offer a unique perspective on pristine landscapes and the majestic Southern Alps.

Outdoor

Tatare Tunnels Walk

Discover the Tatare Tunnels Walk, a hidden gem on New Zealand’s West Coast! At just a 1.5-hour loop, this fun trek takes you through lush rainforests and past fascinating historical mining tunnels. Keep an eye out for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and maybe spot some cheeky wildlife. Adventure awaits—grab your camera and let’s explore!

Landmark4.5/5

Tatare Tunnels Walk

Welcome to the enchanting Tatare Tunnels Walk in Franz Josef/Waiau, New Zealand! As you venture through these historic tunnels, built-in the 19th century, prepare to be whisked away on a magical journey! Marvel at the stunning limestone formations while learning about the area's gold mining past. Don't forget your flashlight as you embark on this thrilling underground adventure!

Eat$$$4.3/5

The Landing Restaurant & Bar

Nestled in Franz Josef, The Landing Restaurant & Bar offers a unique blend of local flavors and stunning mountain views, making it the perfect spot to unwind after an adventure in this breathtaking region.

Eat$$$4.4/5

Alice May Restaurant, Franz Josef

Eat$$$4.2/5

SnakeBite Brewery

Nestled in the heart of Franz Josef, SnakeBite Brewery is a must-visit for craft beer lovers! With its cozy atmosphere, killer mountain views, and a menu bursting with inventive brews, it’s the perfect pit stop after a day of adventure. Don’t miss their famous tasting paddles—your taste buds will thank you! Cheers to unforgettable sips!

Eat$$$4.3/5

King Tiger

Eat$$$4.4/5

Monsoon Restaurant

Cafe3.9/5

The Last Kitchen

Stays

Stay$$$$4.6/5

Franz Josef Oasis Hotel

Opened in 2014 and offering 20 luxurious rooms with free WiFi, Franz Josef Oasis is just 10 minutes’ drive from the Franz Josef Glacier. Guests enjoy a spacious, covered outdoor terrace, perfect for taking in the lovely views of Westland National Park, the garden and mountains. Rooms feature soundproofing, double-glazed windows, deluxe linen, super king beds and a fireplace or heat-pump. All boast a large flat-screen TV. Each room includes a bathroom with heated towel rails and guest toiletries. They display artworks by renowned New Zealand photographer, Andris Apse. Franz Josef Oasis Hotel is 5 minutes’ drive north from the Franz Josef Heliport and The Glacier Hot Pools. It is 2 minutes’ drive from Westland National Park. Lake Mapourika is 2 minutes’ drive away.

Stay$$$4.3/5

Rainforest Retreat

Deep In the heart of west coast glacier country, Rainforest Retreat offers a range of accommodation set amongst lush native bush in the Franz Josef township. Rainforest Retreat offers a range of accommodation from luxury tree huts to backpackers rooms. Guests can relax in the spas and sauna, dine out and have fun at the bar/restaurant, or just relish the bush setting and cook up barbecues with new friends.

Stay$$4.55/5

58 on Cron Motel

58 On Cron is located in the foothills of the Southern Alps. We are just 5 minutes from village centre and the Franz Josef Glacier is a 10-minute drive away. The motel offers self-catering accommodation with free on-site parking. Guests enjoy satellite TV -- including Sky Sports -- in all the rooms and free Wi-Fi access during their stay. Guests have a choice of studio units or spacious 1 and 2-bedroom apartments. All units provide kitchen facilities and a dining area. Some feature a spa bath. There is a spacious garden area with picnic furniture and BBQ facilities.

Stay$$4.4/5

Alpine Glacier Motel

Featuring views of the surrounding mountains, Alpine Glacier Motel offers spacious units with smart tv, modern bathrooms, and heating. Franz Josef Alpine Glacier Motel is a 10-minute drive from Franz Josef Glacier and a 5-minute walk from Franz Josef town centre. Lake Mapourika is a 5-minute drive away. All accommodation has a refrigerator, microwave, coffee plunger, kitchenware and toaster. Each has a seating area, Ironing facilities. FREE UNLIMITED Wi-Fi access is included. Many units have a relaxing spa bath and spectacular mountain and glacier views. Facilities include a tour desk, shared laundry facilities, and car parking right outside your unit.

Stay$$$$4.5/5

Punga Grove

Set amongst native bushland, Punga Grove offers stylish accommodation in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier village. All apartments include an outdoor deck, conservatory windows, fully equipped kitchen, free WiFi and satellite TV with 50 channels. Surrounded by stunning high alpine peaks, Punga Grove is a 2-minute walk to shops, cafes, bars and local tour operators. It is a 10-minute drive to the car park for access to the Franz Josef Glacier. Guests have access to laundry facilities and a gas barbecue. Some studios and apartments feature a luxury spa bath, gas log fire, underfloor heating and leather sofas. Continental breakfast can be delivered to the rooms each morning. Free parking is included and all rooms are serviced daily.

Stay$$$$4.9/5

Holly Homestead Bed & Breakfast

Holly Homestead B&B in Franz Josef offers four-star comfort with private bathrooms, garden and mountain views, and modern amenities including free WiFi, bathrobes, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can unwind on the sun terrace or in the garden, enjoy the outdoor seating area, and utilise the lounge with a cosy sofa. Free on-site private parking is available. A variety of breakfast options are served, including continental, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Fresh fruits, warm dishes, cheese, and juice enhance the morning experience. Located 133 km from Hokitika Airport, the property is highly rated for its friendly host, excellent breakfast, and scenic location.

Stay$$$$4.15/5

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef

Surrounded by natural rainforest on New Zealand's West Coast, Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef is a short drive from Franz Josef Glacier. Guests enjoy free WiFi. This five-star retreat offers luxuriously appointed rooms which include organic cotton bed sheets and large private bathrooms. The hotel restaurant serves breakfast and dinner using the best of fresh New Zealand produce. Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef is close to local attractions including horse trekking, rafting and quad bike tours for guests to enjoy.

Stay$$$3.95/5

The Westhaven Motel

The Westhaven Motel is located in the heart of the South Island's West Coast Glacier Country, within the South West World Heritage area. All accommodation offers a kitchenette, underfloor heating and views of the garden. Guests enjoy free parking. All suites are equipped with electric blankets and a digital flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Each kitchenette includes a microwave and a fridge. Each en suite bathroom features free toiletries, bathrobes and a hairdryer. Some suite have a spa bath. Guests can rent bicycles to explore the beautiful surroundings. The staff at the tour desk can arrange helicopter flights and guided walking tours of Fox Glacier. DVD players are available from reception. Motel Westhaven is an 11-minute drive from Lake Matheson and Westland National Park. It is a 4-minute drive from Fox Glacier airport and 5 km from the Glacier.

Stay4.05/5

Glacier View Motel

Glacier View Motel in Tatare offers family rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and garden views. Each room includes a dining area, TV, and kitchenette with a stovetop. Guests enjoy free on-site private parking, private check-in and check-out, daily housekeeping, laundry service, and a tour desk. The property features an outdoor seating area and picnic spots. Located 133 km from Hokitika Airport, the motel is near Franz Josef Glacier and other scenic sites. Free bicycle parking is available for exploring the area.

Things To Do
Provided by

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

3 h

Tandem Skydive 16,500ft 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.

$319.76

5/5

1 h 5 mins

55 minute Grand Circle Ski Plane

Join this 55-minute Ski Plane scenic experience through the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks for a unique air tour like no other. Flight path goes right around Aoraki MT Cook and views over to the Fox, Franz Josef and Tasman Glaciers. The ultimate way to see the Southern Alps including a glacier landing! Bucket list item!

$464.84

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

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

1 h 30 mins

Private Flight - 2 Glaciers - Snow Landing - Franz Josef - 35mins

On this private Pilots Choice flight you'll see two of the three "big" glaciers. You'll fly over the Franz Josef Glacier then over either the Fox Glacier or Tasman Glacier past Mount Cook and fly into the Southern Alps to enjoy the included 10 minute snow landing for photos. Total experience time approx. 35 minutes. We are a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014 and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office. Please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.

$1,192.65

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

2 h

Private Flight: 4 Glaciers with 2 Snow Landings - 60mins

Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company based in Franz Josef, on the West Coast of New Zealand. Husband and wife team Gus and Poppy started the company in January 2014, and you'll generally find one of them out flying most days. On our PRIVATE Mt Cook Supreme flight you'll fly over the Franz Josef, Fox, Tasman Glaciers and fly into the Southern Alps to see Mount Cook and enjoy two included 10-minute landings - the first a snow landing for photos and the second on the Shackleton Glacier. Total experience time approx. 60 minutes. Please allow an extra 45minutes on top of your flight time to allow for checking in, transport to helicopter, loading, unloading and to return to our office. Please note that whilst this is a private flight, you may share the check in and van travel with other passengers on other flights. Total weight of passenger load must be within the helicopter's weight and balance requirements.

$2,007.13

5/5

30 mins

30 minute Tasman Experience - scenic helicopter flight

Get the cameras ready for one of the best glacier experiences in New Zealand. Climb up the Franz Josef Glacier, crossing the main divide at Centennial Hut to land on New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. Take in breath-taking views of Mount Tasman and Aoraki Mount Cook, rich with uninterrupted scenery you have to see to believe. Then hop back onboard, cross back over Climber Col Pass and enjoy the spectacular views of Franz Josef Glacier before arriving back at Franz Josef Heliport.

$249.58

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

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

Tasman Experience and Skydive | Combo

Land on a glacier in a Helicopter and jump out of plane! The best views of New Zealand are from the sky, and the ultimate way to see them is to fly in a Helicopter, land on a glacier, AND free-fall out of a plane over dazzling alpine peaks, lush native rainforests, and beautiful ancient glaciers! You can’t get more next-level than this exclusive combo experience in the Southern Alps, packed with natural scenic wonders, adrenaline pumping thrills, and zero regrets!

$435.00

5/5

Franz Josef Small Group Bespoke Heli Hike Adventure with lunch

This small group Franz Josef Heli Hike Adventure offers a unique glacier experience, including a scenic helicopter flight, lunch, and drinks. You'll fly from Franz Josef over lush rainforest, landing at 1200m on the glacier. You'll explore the glacier for up to 6 hours with a guide. With a small group size of 1 guide to 4 guests, the adventure can be customized to your preferred level of difficulty.

$924.28

5/5

50 mins

Mount Cook Grand Glacier Experience Helicopter Flight

Journey over the mesmerizing Tasman Glacier Lake, taking in breathtaking views while following the path of the Tasman Glacier. Experience the grandeur of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest peak and land on a pristine glacier. Traverse the majestic Southern Alps, crossing to the West Coast. Take in the spectacular scenery and witness the mighty Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers for the ultimate glacier experience.

$474.37

5/5

18 mins

Twin Glacier Overflight

Approx 18 minute Twin Glacier Overflight! Sometimes the weather conditions (cloud, wind or rain) in Glacier Country don't allow us to get higher into the mountains to the snow landing sites, but we can still safely fly over the Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers. On these days, we often have less sun glare so get the beautiful blue colour in the glacial ice and some awesome photos! Flight times can vary depending on wind speed & direction on the day. Please note there is not a snow landing on this flight.

$229.80

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

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

40 mins

Franz Josef: Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40-Min Helicopter Flight

Experience two of New Zealand's finest National Parks, divided by the imposing Southern Alps. Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox Glacier snowfields with a helicopter snow landing on Franz Josef Glacier at around 2134 meters (7000 feet). Learn about the stunning landscape as your professional pilot delivers an informative commentary enroute. You'll fly along the Main Divide for fantastic views of the Tasman Glacier and Aoraki (Mount Cook) before heading back down towards the lush rainforests at the edge of the Tasman Sea.