Franz Josef Glacier & Wildlife Centre Tour

South Island

Explore West Coast

from

NZ$299

per adult

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Scenic view of Franz Josef township with lush West Coast hills in the background

Experiences

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Greymouth

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 9 hours

Details

Exploring Franz Josef Glacier on Foot

The Franz Josef Glacier is one of New Zealand’s most visited natural wonders, drawing travellers with its rugged beauty and dramatic ice formations. A marked track leads you along the riverbed to the glacier terminal face, taking about 1.5 hours return. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and have a good level of fitness, as the track can change depending on weather and access conditions.

This walk offers stunning photo opportunities at every turn, with glacial rivers and valley views adding to the magic of the experience. The journey is not just about reaching the glacier itself but enjoying the ever-changing landscapes along the way. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting to explore the West Coast’s natural beauty without needing specialist gear.

Visitors walking along the Tree Top Walkway in Hokitika, surrounded by native forest canopy

Visitor standing outside the historic Bank of New South Wales building in Ross, now home to the Goldfields Information and Heritage Centre

Man crouched in a creek panning for gold in Ross on the West Coast of New Zealand

Visitors at the terminal face of Franz Josef Glacier on a guided nature walk

Waiho River with alpine bridge near Franz Josef and snow-capped Southern Alps

Visitors walking through the valley towards Franz Josef Glacier on the West Coast

Exterior of the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef, home to rare Rowi kiwi

Close-up of a kiwi chick breaking through its eggshell at West Coast Wildlife Centre.

A conservation staff member holding a kiwi chick at the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef.

Kiwi bird in a nocturnal house at the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef.

Five tuatara resting on a log surrounded by fern leaves at West Coast Wildlife Centre.

Tuatara eating an insect among leaves and branches at West Coast Wildlife Centre.

Three kōtuku white herons perched on tree branches at Ōkārito Lagoon on the West Coast

Kōtuku white heron catching a fish at Okarito Lagoon near Franz Josef on the West Coast

Wildlife Encounters and Extra Adventures

The Franz Josef Wildlife Centre is a must-see, home to the rare Rowi Kiwi and the fascinating Tuatara. With interactive displays, a glacier exhibit, and a West Coast movie presentation, it’s an experience suited for all ages and weather conditions. The café and gift shop add extra charm, offering both souvenirs and a chance to relax.

For those seeking even more excitement, a scenic helicopter flight can be added to your tour. Flying over the glacier and landing on its icy surface provides unbeatable photo opportunities and a perspective you won’t forget. Since flights are weather-dependent, bookings are flexible, and payment is made on the day.