Glacier Country

Glacier Country, on New Zealand's wild West Coast, is a realm of ancient ice, lush rainforest, and dramatic alpine scenery. Here, the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers descend from the Southern Alps to near sea level, creating a unique landscape where you can walk among temperate rainforest one moment and stand before towering ice cliffs the next. The region's raw beauty and accessible glaciers make it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Fox Glacier – One of the world's most accessible glaciers, offering guided heli-hikes and scenic flights that land on the ice. The glacier's terminal face is a dramatic sight, with crevasses and ice caves.
• Franz Josef Glacier – Slightly larger and more famous, with guided walks to the icefall and heli-hike experiences. The nearby Hot Pools provide a relaxing soak after a day of exploration.
• Lake Matheson – A mirror-still lake that reflects Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The easy loop trail offers iconic photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Okarito Lagoon – New Zealand's largest unmodified wetland, perfect for kayaking and birdwatching. Spot white herons (kotuku) and take a guided nature tour.
• Gillespies Beach – A wild black-sand beach with a historic gold mining trail. Walk to the seal colony or simply enjoy the rugged coastal scenery.
• West Coast Wildlife Centre – In Franz Josef, this conservation centre hatches and raises kiwi chicks. See rare rowi (Okarito brown kiwi) and tuatara up close.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least two to three days to experience Glacier Country properly. Use one day for a glacier hike or heli-tour, another for Lake Matheson and Okarito, and a third for relaxing or exploring additional walks. The region is compact, so you can easily base yourself in Fox Glacier or Franz Josef village and drive between attractions. Allow extra time if the weather delays flights—conditions change rapidly on the West Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika – A charming coastal town known for pounamu (greenstone) carving, Hokitika Gorge's turquoise waters, and the annual Wildfoods Festival.
• Whataroa – The gateway to the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and guided tours to see the rare white heron colony.
• Haast Pass – A scenic drive over the Southern Alps, with waterfalls, rainforest walks, and the chance to see the Blue Pools.
• Franz Josef Village – The hub for glacier tours, with restaurants, accommodation, and the Glacier Hot Pools.
• Fox Glacier Village – A quieter base with direct access to the glacier and Lake Matheson.

Please check official sources for current details.