Search hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef is a must do destination when travelling in the South Island, especially if you like the outdoors. Got up early and travelled to Lake Matheson to watch the sunrise - possibly the best experience in all our years of travelling. The cafe at Lake Matheson was brilliant as well and Alice May restaurant in Franz Josef was brilliant for dinner.

A must see on any New Zealand itinerary, but one day is sufficient. Perfect for adventurous young people who like walking, not so much for older persons. The helicopter ride was bit of a rip-off as the weather closed in and we could not land on the glacier. Although they did give us a little refund, it was not up to our expectations and very expensive 20 minute ride.

Beautiful World Heritage site with exquisite natural flora and fauna. The walks were amongst the most scenic and beautiful we’ve ever experienced. Only downside, which I feel needs to be more clearly explained to visitors, is that the glaciers themselves can only be seen and viewed from the lookout points if it is a clear day without low hanging cloud. We were disappointed to not actually see the Franz Josef Glacier nor the Fox Glacier from the fartherest reach of the walks. Environmentally, we were not prepared to fly/chopper to see the glaciers from the air. Nevertheless, the walks themselves are a must do, driving through the region is gob-smackingly beautiful and the walk around Lake Matheson a must see.

Our helihike was cancelled due to weather, so we did a quad bike in the rain. IT WAS AWESOME! We smiled for the entire two hours. There is a sweet chapel for quiet and reflection. We never saw the glaciers as it rained for three days straight which was so sad. The grocery and a few restaurants were enough to find something to eat.

We were unlucky with the weather, as there was low cloud and some rain. We took a couple of walks to see the glacier from viewing points which were really good. Paths were very good, not muddy, and there were signs to explain the ecology and history.

A small town with a couple of shops and plenty pubs/restaurants. The glacier is 7kms from the town - drive to the car park and then there’s a short walk to the viewing area - you’ll need binoculars or a long lens to truly appreciate the beauty of the glacier. Fox Glacier is 30 mins away and again there’s a pretty uphill walk to a viewing area. You can get a helicopter onto the glacier but they are $$$. Lake Mathewson is worth visiting while in Fox, park at the car park and walk 30/40 mins to the jetty. Beautiful especially at sunset but use bug spray as there are lots of midgies!