A1 58 On Cron Motel

It is not until you place your footprints onto a high alpine snow field, journey deep into the towering rainforests, explore the blue ice caves of the glaciers, tackle a trout on a beautiful lake or jetboat up a glacial river, that you will truly experience Glacier Country.

Here, we've included details of tourism operators who can help you explore and experience the many activities and attractions on offer in Glacier Country.

Walks and Exploration

* The Department of Conservation welcomes you to the Franz Josef Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Fox Te Moeka o Tuawe Glaciers within the Westland Tai Poutini National Park and Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. Spectacular scenery and a fascinating cultural heritage combine in this area to offer you exciting and interesting recreational opportunities. The DOC Visitor Centre at Franz Josef is a great starting point to get your bearings. The Visitor Centre offers interesting displays and detailed information about the Glaciers and Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The centre screens an excellent audio-visual. Up to date weather forecasts are provided daily and make sure you ask about the recreational opportunities in the area. Hut tickets and hunting permits are available as well as a range of conservation gifts and essential outdoor equipment.

Guided Glacier Walks

* Get up close to the glaciers with a guided glacier walk. A variety of options are available, including helihikes, from a few hours to the whole day.

Helihike Franz Josef Glacier

* The most incredible guided glacier experience includes:

* Awesome scenic helicopter flight
* Experienced, professional pilot
* 2 hour glacier walk, allow 3 hours
* Ice caves, seracs, pinnacles
* Pristine alpine environment
* Extraordinary ice flow colours - above and up close

Scenic Flights

* A scenic flight is a great way to view the glaciers. Choose from fixed wing and helicopter flights, some with a snow landing on the glacier neve.

* 2 hour glacier walk, allow 3 hours
* Ice caves, seracs, pinnacles
* Pristine alpine environment
* Extraordinary ice flow colours - above and up close
* Skilful guides from Franz Josef Glacier Guides
* Average fitness required

Skydive NZ

* New Zealand’s most scenic skydive.

* Take off over the rainforest viewing Lake Matheson and coastal views from Hokitika to Haast. Then climb to the western faces of Mt Cook with spectacular mountain and glacier views.

* 9000ft -12,000ft
* 20 years skydiving.

White Heron Sanctuary Tours

* Visit New Zealand’s only White Heron (Kotuku) nesting colony
* Seasonal October to March (2 hour tour)
* View the magnificent Kotuku, Royal Spoonbill, Little Shag and other birdlife, all in their natural environment
* Jet boating and sightseeing all year round
* The only genuine white heron tour.

Okarito Nature Tours

* We are a small family run kayaking company on Okarito Lagoon.

* Explore pristine rainforest and river deltas
* Magnificent mountain views
* View white heron (Kotuku) and other New Zealand birds in their feeding ground
* Guided trips or Freedom Rental
* Experience not necessary
* Quality sea kayaks and equipment

Okarito Kiwi Tours

* This is the only place on the Mainland where you can join a guided tour that takes you deep into kiwi habitat at night to hear or see the kiwi in its natural environment.
* We offer low-impact, low-key personalised guiding in an educational and interpretive style.
* Trips depart 20 minutes prior to sunset from Okarito.

Glacier Country Lake Tours

* Surrounded by magnificent scenery and wildlife, enjoy gliding on mirror-like water in our well appointed 24 seater cruise boat while our nature guide provides an engaging commentary, pointing out scenic highlights and wildlife.

Glacier Valley Eco Tours

* We take pride in guiding to suit our clients age and ability. Interesting conversation, excellent information & personal attention.

* We can take you there:
o Franz Josef/Fox Glacier Terminals
o Lake Matheson
o Okarito Beach
* Individuals - Couples - Families
* Hot drinks & snacks provided
* Glacier Shuttle $10 return to all local tracks Est 1990

Flowing West - The Glacier Movie

* See the Flowing West glacier movie on the GIANT HELIMAX screen at the Alpine Adventure Centre. Combines the full screen imagery of a sensory journey through glacier country with full surround digital sound. An absolute must see. Daily from 10.30am. Other times available, subject to minimum numbers, except 5.00pm

Glacier Country Tours and Kayaks

* Fun & informative half day kayak tours and rentals of a pristine rainforest lake with a magnificent alpine & glacier backdrop.
* We journey across the lake and into the Okarito State Forest via a hidden estuary, a primeval location remnant of the world during the Jurassic.
* The location not only boasts outstanding views, everyone comments on the quiet and tranquility, but it's the vibrant climate change on the backdrop of New Zealands highest mountain peaks often mirrored on the black tannin filled waters, that leave folk impressed with the location. Its an outstanding kayak location with a world class backdrop.

* Free photos of you reflected in the waters of this World Heritage Park scenic gem. Mirror like reflections and easy paddling in the morning, fun on waves and wonderful sunset light in the evening.

Across Country Quad Bikes Franz Josef

* Ride on new Two Seater, Automatic Bombardier Quad Bikes
* 16yrs plus can drive 8yrs & upwards can be a passenger
* See the Glacier from a new angle! Riverbed, Native Bush and Grassland we cover it all! Our guides know the area. Trip approx 11/2 to 2 hours return
* This is a must do family, group or teambuilding experience
* Stormflex wet weather gear, and ATV Gumboots provided free
* We can arrange group bookings so get your friends together!

Hukawai indoor Ice climbing Glacier Centre

* Here you will learn all you need to know about New Zealand’s unique glacier region. Fascinating information on flora, fauna, geology, glaciology, history and mythology is presented through a stimulating audio-visual exhibit – the Hukawai Glacier Experience. The centre also includes the Southern Hemisphere’s only indoor ice climbing wall. The ice wall simulates real glacial features and has a range of climbing routes to suit any ability. Learn how to climb like a pro in a fun and safe environment.

Eco rafting

* Heli rafting specialists, licensed, experienced and entertaining local guides. Pick up from Franz Joseph or meet at the river. Free photos taken by our safety kayaker on every trip. No experience necessary.


Beaumont Buggys Offroad Driving Fun

* Off road buggys 250cc (2 seater go karts) located 5 kms South of Franz Josef. Offroad driving through rainforests and beautiful farm country with Spectacular mountain views, an affordable fun activity for the whole family.
* Drivers must be 14 yrs or over
* All wet weather and safety gear provided (helmets, boots, waterproof trousers and coats)
* Just bring yourself, your camera, and warm clothing if cold.