Franz Josef Glacier

The Franz Josef Glacier Valley/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere region (population 318) boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Just 6km from the centre of the village, the Glacier descends from the tops of the Southern Alps into rainforest at 300m above the sea level. You can gain views of the glacier from Sentinel Rock, a 20 minute return walk from the glacier road car park on a well formed track. A visit to the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre in the village will introduce you to many forest tracks and hikes. The village is graced by a selection of services and amenities. There are guided tours on the glacier, and many helicopter and small plane companies off scenic flights and heli hikes into the Alps. Accommodation varies from good quality backpackers through to reasonably priced motels and more expensive hotels of a fine standard. The dining/café scene in the village is vibrant from tearooms to a la carte dining and café fare. Ten minutes’ drive north of the Franz Josef/Waiau Village on State Highway 6 is the scenic gem, Lake Mapourika. A kayak tour on the lake is available and Okarito Lagoon is well known for its walks and coastal birdlife.