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Photo: Krzysztof Golik, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Franz Josef Glacier

The top of the South and the West Coast · UNESCO World Heritage

Franz Josef Glacier, or Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere, descends from the Southern Alps towards the West Coast rainforest. It has retreated a long way in recent decades, so walks from the valley now end at a viewpoint and the ice is reached only by helicopter.

Ways to see it

  • Heli hike: A helicopter lands on the ice and a guide leads you through blue crevasses.
  • Scenic flight: Over Franz Josef, Fox and Aoraki/Mount Cook, often with a snow landing.
  • Valley walk: Along the riverbed to a viewpoint of the glacier.
  • Glacier hot pools: Hot tubs in the rainforest after a wet day.

Tip: Book a morning flight and keep the next morning free in case cloud cancels it. See Franz Josef and Fox glaciers.

Honest downsides

The West Coast is one of the wettest parts of New Zealand, and in heavy rain or low cloud the glacier can be invisible. The drives either side are long.

When to go

Clear days are possible in any season, and winter often has the most stable, settled weather on the West Coast. Summer brings the most visitors and long daylight. Whatever the month, plan a spare day for flights.

How it fits a trip

Franz Josef is about 4.5 hours from Wanaka over the Haast Pass and 3 hours from Punakaiki. Many South Island tours include a night here on the way between Nelson and Queenstown. See our South Island itinerary.

Where it is

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Multi-day tours that visit Franz Josef Glacier

Every tour here includes Franz Josef Glacier in its itinerary. Best rated first.

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Combine it with

Wanaka

A relaxed lake town with the famous tree, Roys Peak and Mount Aspiring.

Visitor guide →

Abel Tasman National Park

Golden beaches and clear bays, explored by kayak, water taxi or on foot.

Visitor guide →

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Franz Josef Glacier: questions

How much is a Franz Josef heli hike?

From about NZ$500 per person, depending on the operator and the length of time on the ice.

Can you walk up to Franz Josef Glacier?

Only to a viewpoint in the valley. Walking on the ice needs a guided heli hike.

Is Franz Josef worth visiting?

Yes if the weather lets you fly; otherwise consider it a scenic stop on the West Coast road.

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