West Coast Glaciers

Few experiences in New Zealand match the primal thrill of standing before the West Coast Glaciers – Franz Josef and Fox – where ancient ice cascades almost to sea level through temperate rainforest. These are among the most accessible glaciers on Earth, offering a rare chance to walk on ice that has been compacted over centuries. The drive from Hanmer Springs is an adventure in itself, winding through the Southern Alps via Lewis Pass, with ever-changing vistas of beech forest, braided rivers, and snow-capped peaks. Once you arrive, the sheer scale and otherworldly blue crevasses will leave you in awe.

Highlights & What to See

• Franz Josef Glacier – Take a guided heli-hike onto the ice, exploring crevasses and ice tunnels with a knowledgeable guide. The walk from the car park to the terminal face viewpoint is a stunning introduction.
• Fox Glacier – Slightly larger and less crowded, Fox offers similarly spectacular heli-hikes and a lovely valley walk to the terminal face viewpoint, with views of Mount Cook on clear days.
• Lake Matheson – Just a short drive from Fox Glacier, this mirror-still lake reflects Aoraki/Mount Cook and the glacier on calm mornings. The easy loop walk is a photographer's dream.
• Okarito Lagoon – A peaceful kayak or boat trip on this pristine coastal lagoon, home to white herons (kotuku) and other birdlife. The Okarito Trig walk offers panoramic views of the glaciers and coastline.
• Scenic flights & heli-hikes – Both glaciers operate scenic flights that circle the peaks and land on the nevé, providing a bird's-eye perspective of the ice fields and alpine terrain.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least two full days to do justice to both glaciers and their surroundings. One day for Franz Josef (including a heli-hike or valley walk) and a second day for Fox Glacier plus Lake Matheson and Okarito. If time is tight, prioritize Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson for a more intimate experience. Consider an overnight stay in Franz Josef village or Fox Glacier township to avoid rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs – Soak in thermal pools after your glacier adventure, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles.
• Arthur's Pass National Park – On the drive from Hanmer, stop for short walks to waterfalls and alpine viewpoints, such as Devil's Punchbowl.
• Hokitika – A charming west coast town known for pounamu (greenstone) carving, wild beaches, and the Hokitika Gorge's turquoise waters.
• Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks) – North of the glaciers, these limestone formations and blowholes are a dramatic coastal attraction.
• Wanaka – A scenic drive over the Haast Pass leads to this lakeside town, gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park and a great base for further exploration.

Please check official sources for current details.