Franz Josef Glacier

The Basics

The glacier is easily accessible on a day tour from Franz Josef village and popular activities include a glacier valley walk, a kayaking excursion around Lake Mapourika, or an ATV ride along the West Coast, often combined with a visit to the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary or the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools. For the most incredible views, soar over the Southern Alps on a helicopter flight or touchdown to enjoy heli-hiking along the glacier.

Things to Know Before You Go

• It can get chilly on the mountaintops even in summer, so bring a jacket, as well as sunscreen, suitable hiking boots, and plenty of water.

• The glacial landscapes are constantly changing and icefalls and flash floods are common, so it’s best to visit with a guide.

• Some tours and scenic flights over the Franz Josef glacier are wheelchair accessible—check with your tour operator in advance.

How to Get There

The Franz Josef Glacier is located in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park in the Southland Region of New Zealand’s South Island. The main access point is the Franz Josef Glacier Village, around two hours south of Greymouth, and 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the terminal face of the glacier.

When to Get There

The glacier is accessible all year round, but the high season runs from November to March, when the milder temperatures are ideal for hiking and helicopter tours. Although much colder—average temperatures are 41–57°F/ 5–15°C—the weather in winter is less changeable, making for some even more impressive scenery; plus, you’ll typically find far fewer crowds.

The Natural Wonders of Te Wahipounamu

The Franz Josef glacier is part of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Te Wahipounamu, which encompasses the neighboring Fox Glacier, and the national parks of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Fiordland, Mount Aspiring, and Westland Tai Poutini. The West Coast glaciers are just a small part of the dramatic landscapes that await adventurers, who can enjoy scenic flights over glacier country, take heli-hikes in the mountains, explore underground ice caves, or hike the summit of Mt. Cook.

What is Franz Josef Glacier, and where is it located in New Zealand?

The Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most impressive glaciers in New Zealand and is located in Glacier Country along the West Coast of the South Island. Renowned for its easy accessibility, the glacier is just south of Franz Josef/Waiau village in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

How do I get to Franz Josef Glacier from major cities like Queenstown or Christchurch?

Queenstown and Christchurch have the closest international airports to Franz Josef Glacier, which is a scenic 5-hour drive away. You can also take an Intercity bus from Queenstown or fly from Queenstown, Christchurch, Auckland, or Wellington to nearby Hokitika airport, about a 1.5-hour drive from Franz Josef village.

What is the best time of year to visit Franz Josef Glacier?

Summer (Dec-Feb) is the most popular time to visit Franz Josef Glacier, and the warm weather is most comfortable for hiking. However, if you can stand the cold—typically between 41-57°F (5-15°C)—winter weather is more consistent, which means less chance of cancellations and even more dramatic ice formations.

Are there guided tours available to explore Franz Josef Glacier?

Yes, there are plenty of guided tours that visit Franz Josef. You can fly over the glacier in a helicopter or ski plane for a spectacular aerial view, including a snow landing; try ice climbing; or take a guided glacier hike and explore ice towers, ice caves, and ice walls.

Can visitors hike on Franz Josef Glacier independently, or is a guide required?

No, you can’t hike on the glacier without a guide, and you’ll need the right equipment, such as a helmet, crampons, and an ice axe. However, you can hike the popular Franz Josef Glacier Walk independently, which provides spectacular views from the glacier's foot.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions for glacier tours at Franz Josef Glacier?

Yes. For safety reasons, most glacier tours will only accept participants who weigh less than 253 pounds (115 kilograms) and have reasonable fitness and mobility. Children from 10 years can join heli-hikes, providing they are at least 77 pounds (35 kilograms) and 53 inches (137 centimeters) tall—but must be over 16 to go ice climbing.