Franz Josef and Fox Glacier aren't just home to two of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers—they’re also the heart of Glacier Country on the wild West Coast. These charming little towns punch well above their weight when it comes to adventure, scenery, and atmosphere.
Franz Josef is the livelier of the two, with a great mix of cafes, hot pools, scenic flight and glacier hike options plus walks that lead you through rainforest to glacier viewpoints. It's a popular base for travellers looking to explore the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. It's one of our favourite towns in New Zealand and have spent many months exploring this incredible town!
Fox Glacier, just 25 minutes down the road, is smaller and more laid-back. The town is close to Lake Matheson (famous for its perfect mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook), and offers easy access to forest walks, scenic flights and glacier views without the crowds.
Whether you base yourself in Franz or Fox, both towns offer that unbeatable West Coast mix of wilderness, hospitality and adventure.
There is plenty more on the West Coast to explore - click here to see it all!
If you see “blog coming soon,” don’t worry—it won’t be for much longer! We’re working hard behind the scenes to finish everything in the next few weeks. We’re also adding heaps more guides, updating older blogs and making it SO much easier for you to plan your trip around New Zealand!
Franz Josef is the livelier of the two, with a great mix of cafes, hot pools, scenic flight and glacier hike options plus walks that lead you through rainforest to glacier viewpoints. It's a popular base for travellers looking to explore the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. It's one of our favourite towns in New Zealand and have spent many months exploring this incredible town!
Fox Glacier, just 25 minutes down the road, is smaller and more laid-back. The town is close to Lake Matheson (famous for its perfect mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook), and offers easy access to forest walks, scenic flights and glacier views without the crowds.
Whether you base yourself in Franz or Fox, both towns offer that unbeatable West Coast mix of wilderness, hospitality and adventure.
There is plenty more on the West Coast to explore - click here to see it all!
If you see “blog coming soon,” don’t worry—it won’t be for much longer! We’re working hard behind the scenes to finish everything in the next few weeks. We’re also adding heaps more guides, updating older blogs and making it SO much easier for you to plan your trip around New Zealand!
Peters Pool offers the most incredible reflections of the mountains on a still day. This is one of our top spots to visit in Franz Josef.
A 20-minute return walk to see a different lookout towards the Franz Josef Glacier than the more common track.
A short climb to a lookout with wide views over the valley, Franz Josef Glacier and the wild West Coast.
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Famous for its mirror like reflections, Lake Matheson is one of the best places to visit in Fox Glacier.
Hike 5.2kms through the rainforest, past waterfalls to the gorge Callery Gorge filled with stunning blue water.
Take a walk on an enchanting West Coast rainforest track, where everything is covered in moss and you feel like you're in a fairy tale!
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Take an easy, short walk to catch a glimpse of one of the most popular glaciers on the West Coast.
One of the lushest rainforests tracks we have seen, this track is an easy 20-minute nature walk in Fox Glacier
A popular 2-hour return walk in Fox Glacier takes you to stunning views of the Fox Glacier glacier, high up in the Southern Alps.
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This track winds the rainforest to historic water tunnels you can explore. After dark you might spot glowworms lighting up the walls. |
A short walk through the rainforest right in Franz Josef town- perfect if you’re short on time or just want to be at one with nature. |
Flying high above the glaciers and landing on snow was beyond incredible! This adventure should be at the top of your bucket list.
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Kid-approved activities and family adventures in the heart of glacier country. From glowworm walks to wildlife encounters.
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Drive off-road on a buggy or quad through rainforest and rivers, in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a must-do in Franz Josef!
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Get uninterrupted views of the stunning Fox Glacier and the Southern Alps, straight from the carpark. |
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FOX GLACIER
Everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Fox Glacier - rainforest hikes, glacier viewpoints and mirror lakes. BLOG COMING SOON! |
WHERE TO SEE THE FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
From valley walks to helicopter flights, these are the best spots to see the stunning Franz Josef Glacier.
BLOG COMING SOON! |
4 BEAUTIFUL WALKS IN FOX GLACIER
Discover four stunning walks in Fox Glacier that take you through the lush, green rainforest, past reflective lakes and to glacier viewpoints. BLOG COMING SOON! |
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FRANZ JOSEF
Glaciers, glowworms, hikes and what to pack for the West Coast weather - everything you need to know for your Franz Josef adventure. BLOG COMING SOON! |
7 INCREDIBLE WALKS IN FRANZ JOSEF
See why Franz Josef is one of our favourite places in New Zealand to walk and explore. These 7 tracks are absolute must-dos! BLOG COMING SOON! |
FOX GLACIER VS FRANZ JOSEF: THE IDEAL BASE FOR EXPLORING GLACIER COUNTRY
Not sure which town to stay in while exploring Glacier Country? We break down the pros and cons to help you decide.
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WHERE TO SEE THE FOX GLACIER
Wondering where to get the best views of Fox Glacier? These spots offer scenic lookouts—and a heli ride takes the views to the next level. BLOG COMING SOON! |
WHERE TO STAY AND EAT IN FRANZ JOSEF
Sleep easy, eat well, and soak it all in - Franz Josef has your back after your rainforest and glacier adventures. BLOG COMING SOON! |
5 THINGS TO DO IN FRANZ JOSEF ON A RAINY DAY
The rain can’t stop the adventure. Discover the best spots to explore in Franz Josef when the sky turns grey.
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