The short answer
- On the ice
- Heli hike, from about NZ$500
- Free
- Valley walks to the viewpoints
- Nights
- 1 to 2
- Weather
- Wet: allow a spare day
The West Coast glaciers are a rare sight: ice reaching down into temperate rainforest. Climate change has pulled them back a long way, and the valley walks that once reached the ice now end at viewpoints.
Ways to see the glaciers
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Heli hike | A helicopter lands on the glacier and a guide leads you through ice formations. From about NZ$500. |
| Scenic flight | Fly over both glaciers and Aoraki/Mount Cook, some with a snow landing. |
| Valley walk | Free walks to viewpoints of the glacier face, about 1 to 1.5 hours return. |
| Lake Matheson | A walk around a lake famous for reflections of the mountains, near Fox Glacier. |
Tip: Book flights for your first morning and keep the next morning spare: cloud cancels many flights.
Fitting them in
The glaciers are on the long West Coast road between Nelson or Greymouth and Wanaka. Allow at least one night, ideally two. See our South Island itinerary.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you walk on Franz Josef Glacier?
Only on a guided heli hike. The glacier has retreated too far for walks from the valley.
Is Franz Josef or Fox Glacier better?
They're similar. Franz Josef village has more accommodation; Fox is near Lake Matheson.
Are the glaciers worth the drive?
Yes if the weather is clear and you can fly; in heavy rain the West Coast is less rewarding.
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