Franz Josef Hotels
Unforgettable Franz Josef Glacier
This magnificent slice of ice was discovered by an Austrian dude way back in the 19th century (hence the fruity/not-very-Kiwi-sounding name) and has managed to attract tourists to NZ’s South Island ever since. ... Read more »
Once you’ve explored Franz Josef and the nearby Fox Glacier, it’s time to give the surrounds a bit of a whirl. For the oldies, kiddies and not-so-fit, the easy-peasy Minnehaha Walk is the best way to explore the rainforest for a good 20 minutes. For the ultra-fit, the Mount Fox Track will take about eight hours from your day, but will be absolutely worth it. Don’t forget to take some time to go on the White Heron Sanctuary Tour to spot everything from the White Heron/Kotuku to the Little Black Shag/Kawapaka. (Feel free to giggle at the name. Everyone else does…)
FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER’S TOP 10
10. The Chalet Lookout One of the best lookouts in the area is also home to a bunch of native birds, including the cute fantail and tomtit (insert more immature laughter here). |
5. Sky High Hovering above the ground in a chopper is the perfect way to get the full scope of this magnificent slither of nature. |
9. West Coast Wildlife Centre Watch the rare Rowi Kiwis go about their daily biz before you hit up the café and gift shop. |
4. Whataroa River This gushing river was just made for a wild, white-water rafting session. Hold on tight, kids! |
8. Whataroa Valley Learn about the gold-panning process before you try your luck at finding some shiny stuff. |
3. Fox Glacier Right alongside the main glacier is this just-as-awesome one. Take a self-guided tour to really explore it. |
7. Roberts Point Track This walking trail takes you through lush forest and rocky areas and has a historical theme. |
2. Glacier Hot Pools What better way to follow up an icy-cold adventure than with a soak in a steaming-hot pool. Lush! |
6. Lake Mapourika Whether you want a spot of fishing, a chilled cruise or just a pretty piece of water to look at, this is a great place to hit. |
1. Ice climbing For those of you who want a real challenge, this is one of the best ways to explore the glacier. Grab your ice axes and go! |
FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER EVENTS
Celebrate the not-so-toasty summertime with the Hokitika Summer Fair in February.
Hokitika gets its buzz on with the annual Hokitika Wildfoods Festival in March. While munching on big fat Huhu Grubs is the main attraction (!), there’s also a bunch of other stuff to entertain the masses.
September/October welcomes a unique film event, New Zealand on Screen.
WHEN TO GO
- Franz Josef stays pretty cool throughout the year but gets exceptionally frosty in winter. Expect the warmer months to hit max temps of 20°C (68°F) and the mercury to dip as low as -4°C (25°F) in July.
- If you want throngs of other tourists to mingle with, visit Franz Josef Glacier between October and April.
GETTING AROUND
- Exploring the glacier’s valley and surrounding area is best done on foot. Make sure to don some super-sturdy footwear and thick clothing to shield yourself from the chill. Franz Josef Glacier Guides provides great guides and tours.
- You can also explore from up high in a helicopter or small plane. There are dozens of companies that provide flight-seeing, including Air Safaris. Fees vary.
- To explore further out around Greymouth and Hokitika, catch a Naked Bus. (No, the drivers aren’t in the buff. Sorry! We were disappointed, too…)
$93
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Cron Street Franz Josef West Coast South Island 7856
Rainforest Retreat offers a comprehensive range of accommodation with outstanding facilities and a spectacular combina... More hotel details
Glacier View Motel Franz Josef
3.5 Stars$121
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6 State Highway Franz Josef Glacier 7886
Featuring beautiful accommodation and pleasant ambience, this property welcomes you for an unforgettable vacation... More hotel details
$125
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17 Cron Street Franz Josef West Coast 7900
Make Alpine Glacier Motel as your Franz Josef accommodation, which is a wonderful base for your adventure to New Zeala... More hotel details
58 On Cron Motel Franz Josef
3 Stars$167
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58 Cron Street Franz Josef South Westland 7952
Offering comfortable accommodation and quality services, 58 On Cron Motel Franz Josef is the perfect base for guests t... More hotel details
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
3.5 Stars$201
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State Highway 6 Franz Josef Glacier Franz Josef 7856
Set in the scenic alpine location, Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier provides tasteful accommodations and friendly hosp... More hotel details
$100
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34 Cron Street South Island Franz Josef 7886
Providing quality accommodation and friendly services for travellers in Franz Josef, Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef Gla... More hotel details
Terrace Motel Franz Josef
4 Stars$133
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Cowan Street Franz Josef 7856
Terrace Motel Franz Josef is a great holiday destination and also ideal for business trips. This motel is a perfect ba... More hotel details
Westwood Lodge Franz Josef Glacier
4.5 Stars$298
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6 State Highway Franz Josef Glacier 7952
Architecturally styled to reflect the New Zealand West Coast forest environment, the Westwood Lodge offers superbly co... More hotel details
$658
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State Highway 6 Franz Josef 7856
Te Waonui Forest Retreat Hotel Franz Josef offers quality accommodation and friendly service and loads with memories t... More hotel details
Glenfern Villas Franz Josef
4.5 Stars$171
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State Highway 6 Franz Josef Westland 7952
Being an ideal place in the city of Franz Josef, this hotel offers a warm welcome, pleasant ambience and comfortable a... More hotel details
