Franz Josef
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West Coast Region Guide
Set between the Tasman Sea and the unbroken chain of the Southern Alps, the magnificent West Coast...
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Out and About on the West Coast
The West Coast Conservancy of the Department of Conservation administers an astounding 76 percent of...
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Franz Josef Travel Guide
At the northern boundary of Westland/Tai Poutini National Park, Franz Josef is a tranquil villa...
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Things to Do in Franz Josef

Things to see and do in Franz Josef, Franz Josef highlights, Franz Josef activities and attractions, and points of interest in Franz Josef - the Jasons Franz Josef Things to Do Guide is your complete guide to sightseeing in Franz Josef.

  •  Franz Josef Glacier
    Austrian explorer Julius Haast first explored this mighty river of moving ice in 1865. The glacier has advanced more than 1.7km since 1985, moving forward at roughly 70cm a day. Visitors can walk onto the glacier if they are accompanied by a guide. Operators include Franz Josef Glacier Guides and the Guiding Company.
  • Walks
    Franz Josef is an excellent base for walks along the Waiho River valley and in the foothills of the Southern Alps. Walks around the glacier area include Douglas Walk (1hr), which takes in a small 'kettle' lake, Roberts Point (3.5hrs), which overlooks the terminal face of the glacier, the Terrace Track (1hr), which has fine views over the Waiho River, and Canavan's Knob (40 minutes return). The visitor centre has a brochure detailing walks.
  • Scenic Flights
    There are superb aerial views available through several operators - try The Helicopter Line.
  • Lake Mapourika
    To the north, Lake Mapourika has boating facilities and some pleasant picnic spots. It is a glacier formation from the last ice age. The water is black in colour and provides superb reflections.
  • Okarito & Okatiro Lagoon
    Located on the coast, this wild isolated region offers some beautiful walks, and is famous for its lagoon and birdlife. The Okarito Lagoon is New Zealand's largest unmodified wetland. The tidal flats here are the feeding ground for native white heron (kotuku), as well as many other bird species. Okarito Nature Tours conduct excursions to the river delta to see the birds.
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Find Franz Josef Accommodation
  • Terrace Motel, Franz Josef Motels & Motor Lodges
    Terrace Motel
    Terrace Motel is the ideal place to stay if you want to be close to the town's main centre. Experience the wonders of Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers and the Rainforest during your time in Franz Josef Glacier. 150m to shops and 4...
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  • 10 Cottages, Franz Josef Motels & Motor Lodges
    10 Cottages
    New October 2008. Central location situated in quiet street with rainforest and mountain views. 10 detached self-contained studio cottages either twin or double, maximum occupancy 3 persons, serviced daily. 2 with access...
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  • Glacier Gateway Motel, Franz Josef Motels & Motor Lodges
    Glacier Gateway Motel
    Glacier Gateway Motor Lodge is the closest motel to glacier and 500m south of Franz Josef village. It has 23 units, serviced daily: 16 studio; 5x2brm family units; 2x1brm. All units come with tea/coffee/toast making facilities,...
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