Attraction: Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier (in native language: Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere) is a 12 km long temperate sea glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

A geologist named Julius von Haast discovered the Franz Josef Glacier (Ko Roimata o Hine Hukatere) in 1865 and named it after the Austrian emperor. Within a 1.5-hour walk, you can get to the glacier’s terminus, which is located five kilometers from the town of the same name.

A heli-hike or a guided ice walk are the only ways to get up close and personal with the glacier. Another choice is to take to the skies and take in the sights.

In the vicinity of Franz Josef Glacier Village, you’ll find a wide variety of natural attractions. Get lost in the forests, waterfalls, and lakes of the rainforests.

There are many places to stay and eat in the town, as well as the Glacier Hot Pools and the wildlife center, where you can unwind. You can rent a stand-up paddleboard or go on a kayak tour at nearby Lake Mapourika.