Kea Point Track

The Kea Point Track is a short, rewarding walk in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, offering stunning views of the Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding alpine landscape. This easy trail is perfect for travellers short on time but keen to experience the raw beauty of New Zealand's glacier country. The track winds through lush rainforest before opening out to a viewpoint that overlooks the terminal face of the glacier, with Mount Cook and Mount Tasman often visible in the distance.

Highlights & What to See

• Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint: The main reward is a close-up view of the glacier's terminal face, with its crevasses and ice formations.
• Mount Cook and Mount Tasman: On clear days, these towering peaks dominate the skyline behind the glacier.
• Rainforest walk: The trail passes through dense native bush with ferns, mosses, and rimu trees – a classic West Coast experience.
• Kea (alpine parrot): Keep an eye out for these curious and intelligent birds, especially near the car park and shelter.
• Interpretive signs: Learn about the glacier's history, the local flora, and the national park's ecology.

Suggested Time to Spend

The track is 3 km return (about 1.5 hours) and can be completed in half a day, allowing time for a leisurely walk and photo stops. It's best done in the morning when the weather is often clearer. Combine it with a visit to the Franz Josef Glacier Guides centre or a scenic flight for a full day of glacier immersion.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier village: Just 5 km away, with restaurants, shops, and accommodation.
• Fox Glacier: A 30-minute drive south, offering another glacier viewpoint and the Lake Matheson walk.
• Okarito Lagoon: A 30-minute drive north, great for kayaking and birdwatching (white herons).
• West Coast glaciers scenic flights: Helicopter or fixed-wing flights from Franz Josef or Fox for an aerial perspective.
• Whataroa River: Nearby for white-water rafting and jet boating.

Please check official sources for current details.