Franz Josef Glacier: Hiking, History and Ice

Franz Josef Glacier appeals to travelers who want to choose between forest trails, local water engineering history and glacier experiences. In Franz Josef/Waiau, options range from an easy walk at the southern end of the village to challenging day hikes in the surrounding area and guided helicopter tours. When planning your trip, it is worth comparing the route profile and type of experience: duration, difficulty and scenic focus vary considerably.

Walking trails between forest and glacier

The Callery Gorge Walk climbs to a high terrace and then descends to the Callery River. Along the way, it follows an old water race from the gold-mining era and leads to the historic Callery Gorge Bridge. The trail combines a varied elevation profile with two tangible reminders of local history. The Terrace Walk has a different focus: it is an easy trail along forested terraces at the southern end of the village of Franz Josef. After dark, glowworms can be seen in the forest.

On the Douglas Walk, you can experience landforms created by glacial advances and retreats between 1600 and 1750. The trail leads to Peters Pool, a reflective kettle lake. Another route through bush is the Te Ara a Waiau Walkway/Cycleway, from Franz Josef to the Franz Josef Glacier car park. For a tunnel route, the Tatare Tunnels Walk leads to old water tunnels and takes 80 minutes. You will need a torch and a rain jacket to explore the tunnels; water on the trail can reach ankle depth. Check conditions before setting out.

Water engineering history and challenging hikes

The Tatare Tunnels Walk leads to a 500-metre-long tunnel system built by pioneers to channel water to the Waiho Terrace. The old water race on the Callery Gorge Walk recalls a different use: gold mining. Together, the two trails offer a glimpse into different aspects of local industrial history.

The Roberts Point Track runs through the surrounding area. This challenging day hike offers views of Franz Josef Glacier and the surrounding mountains, requires a good level of fitness and is best suited to experienced hikers. The trailhead is at the glacier car park, about four kilometres from the village of Franz Josef. The track leads to Hende’s Hut and passes the historic Hende’s Gallery. Built in 1907, the gallery is cantilevered and suspended. Check current hazards and track conditions before setting out.

Glacier tours, wildlife and relaxation

The Franz Josef Heli Hike combines a helicopter flight with a two-and-a-half-hour guided hike among blue ice formations. On the Glacier Heli Hike, a short walk leads to the helipad; the flight lands high up at the glacier’s main icefall and begins and ends in Franz Josef. Weather affects tour operations, so check the latest information before planning this experience.

The West Coast Wildlife Centre is the South Island’s largest kiwi incubation and rearing facility. Visitors can see live tuatara and live ambassador penguins, and discover stories about New Zealand’s rare kiwis, including Haast tokoeka and rowi. The VIP Backstage Pass includes admission and a 40-minute guided experience with a Kiwi Ranger, behind-the-scenes access to the kiwi incubation and rearing facility, close-up encounters with tuatara and information about kiwi conservation. Check current ticket details and animal presentations before visiting.

Waiho Hot Tubs offers something different: a private hot tub with fresh water for one hour. The experience includes water from a mountain stream, wood-fired heat and a rainforest setting. If you would like to plan a visit, check current availability.

Other landscapes in the Westland District

Elsewhere in the wider Westland District destination, other places offer their own scenic experiences. Fox Glacier Valley offers walks and cycle rides with different views of the glacier valley; the glacier landscape at Fox Glacier is set amid forest and can be reached by car and on foot from the State Highway. At Lake Matheson, an easy loop trail runs along the lake. On calm, clear days, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman are reflected in the still water.

Discover more destinations: Kakapotahi, Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Okarito, Whataroa, Otira, Bruce Bay, Haast.

For the wider travel overview: Westland District.