Franz Josef is a tiny town on the South Island’s West Coast. It’s five kilometres from Franz Josef Glacier, and twenty minutes’ walk from Westland National Park, making it a popular tourist destination for those who enjoy quiet and natural beauty.
The glacier itself is accessible by guided walk, plane or helicopter. It’s the world’s steepest accessible glacier and one of the most dramatic.
After a cold day on the glacier, nothing would be better than dropping into the Glacier Hot Pools. In the centre of town, the pools are nonetheless set amongst lush beautiful native bush.
Or you might prefer to try the indoor ice climbing wall at Hukawai Glacier Centre. The Centre also features an audio-visual presentation on the history, geography and ecology of the glacier.
Nearby Lake Mapourika is the site of eco-cruises and guided tours, and the rough terrain of the area can also be experienced on horse-back. Or you can try your hand at guided trophy fishing and hunting.
