In Franz Josef Glacier, walks through forest and glacial landscapes meet visible traces of gold mining. There are also guided experiences on the ice, wildlife viewing and a private break in a hot tub. To help plan your visit, start with a simple question: would you like to explore the area on foot, choose a guided tour, or combine different interests?
Walks and history around Franz Josef
The Callery Gorge Walk starts in the village of Franz Josef/Waiau, climbs to an elevated terrace and then descends to the Callery River. Along the way, the track follows an old water race from the gold-mining era and leads to the historic Callery Gorge Bridge. Here, the landscape and industrial history share the same route: the water race recalls the mining past, while the track descends to the bridge.
The Tatare Tunnels Walk takes 80 minutes and leads to old water tunnels. Pioneers dug the 500-metre tunnel system to channel water to the Waiho Terrace. A torch and a rain jacket are required to explore the tunnels; water on the track can reach ankle depth. Check the condition of the tunnels on site before entering.
The Terrace Walk is an easy track along wooded terraces at the southern end of Franz Josef village. After dark, glow-worms can be seen in the forest. For a different route through bush, try the Te Ara a Waiau Walkway/Cycleway, which runs from the village to the Franz Josef Glacier car park and can be used on foot or by bike.
Glacial landscapes on foot or with a guide
The Douglas Walk crosses landforms created by glacier advances and retreats between 1600 and 1750. It runs through the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere area and leads to Peters Pool, a reflective lake formed by stranded ice. The track combines an insight into how the landscape formed with a specific destination along the way.
The Franz Josef Heli Hike combines a helicopter flight with a two-and-a-half-hour guided walk among blue ice formations. Check-in is in Franz Josef, and operations are weather-dependent. Check the latest conditions with the operator before planning this tour. For the Glacier Heli Hike, a short walk leads to the helipad; the landing is high up at the glacier’s main icefall. This tour starts and finishes in Franz Josef.
Kiwi experiences and a quieter break
The West Coast Wildlife Centre is the South Island’s largest kiwi breeding and rearing facility. Visitors can see live tuatara and ambassador penguins and discover stories about New Zealand’s rare kiwi, including Haast tokoeka and rowi. As exhibits can change, it is worth confirming which animals are on display before your trip.
The VIP Backstage Pass includes admission as well as a 40-minute guided experience with a Kiwi Ranger. It includes behind-the-scenes access to the kiwi breeding and rearing facility, close encounters with tuatara, and information about kiwi conservation. Check the latest booking details if you would like this special behind-the-scenes experience.
For a different kind of break, Waiho Hot Tubs offers a private hot tub filled with fresh water for one hour. The experience combines water from a mountain stream, wood-fired warmth and rainforest surroundings; the hot tubs are in Franz Josef village. Availability can change, so it is worth checking before your trip.
A challenging day walk nearby
The Roberts Point Track is a challenging day walk with views of Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding mountains. The start is at Glacier Car Park, about four kilometres from the village. A good level of fitness is essential; the walk is best suited to experienced hikers. On the way to Hende’s Hut, the track passes historic Hende’s Gallery, a cantilevered, suspended gallery built in 1907. Check current hazards and track conditions before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Okarito, Hokitika, Ross, Kokatahi, Bruce Bay, Fox Glacier, Whataroa, Haast.
For the broader travel overview: Westland District.
