Welcome to glacier country! Explore Franz Josef (also Waiau), a small township perched alongside the Waiho river that serves as a gateway to the majestic Franz Josef Glacier. Surrounded by dense rainforests, secret waterfalls, suspension bridges, and tartare tunnels with glow worms, Franz Josef is a treasure trove of natural wonders, making it an ideal base to enjoy numerous outdoor activities. The area’s stunning beauty can be enjoyed through a number of ways – Scenic flights and heli-hikes over the West Coast glaciers, kayak tours on Lake Mapourika, glacier valley walks and more. Unwind at the natural hot pools found around the region. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the West Coast Wildlife Center which prides itself on its conservation efforts of the Rowi and the Haast tokoeka, two of the most endangered Kiwi species in the world.
Places: Auckland (3 days) → Rotorua (2) → Napier (2) → Wellington (1) → Blenheim (1) → Abel Tasman National Park (2) → Kaikoura (1) → Christchurch (1) → Mt Cook (2) → Wanaka (1) → Te Anau (2) → Queenstown (2)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Wellness & Relaxation, Adventure...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Beaches Heritage & Culture Wine & Food
Places: Auckland (1 day) → Paihia (Bay of Islands) (1) → Auckland (1) → Rotorua (2) → Wellington (2) → Christchurch (2) → Queenstown (3) → Franz Josef Glacier (2) → Christchurch (1)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Bay of Islands, Farmers...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Beaches Heritage & Culture Nature & Landscapes
Places: Auckland (1 day) → Rotorua (2) → Christchurch (2) → Mt Cook (1) → Queenstown (2)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Wellness & Relaxation, Adventure...
Ideal For: Adventure & Outdoors Nature & Landscapes Relaxation & Spas
Places: Auckland (1 day) → Napier (2) → Martinborough (1) → Wellington (2) → Marlborough Sounds (2) → Blenheim (2) → Kaikoura (1) → Christchurch (1)
Tour Highlights: Volcanic Peaks & Black Sand Beaches, Maori Culture, Food & Wine, Art Deco Buildings, Wine...
Ideal For: Heritage & Culture Wine & Food
Style: Heritage
Holly Homestead B&B is a 1920s home located in the village of Franz Josef that has been converted into a charming accommodation. Stay at this property to experience a sense of old-world charm and hospitality.
Style: Guest house
Rainforest Retreat offers comfortable accommodations inside a beautiful rainforest in the village of Franz Josef. The hotel makes for a convenient base to explore the region's famous glaciers and mountains.
Style: Lodge
Scenic Hotel is a modern accommodation located very close to the famous Franz Josef glacier and in the vicinity of Westland World Heritage Park.
Style: Lodge
Te Waonui Forest Retreat sits snuggled into the dense rainforest, minutes away from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Franz Josef Glacier. Designed to be a sustainable property with natural building materials and minimal carbon footprint, this charming lodge is the perfect base for your exploration of the natural wonders of the region.
Style: Lodge
Westwood Lodge is a charming bed and breakfast set close to the magnificent Southern Alps and the Westland National Park, a World Heritage site. It also acts as a most convenient location to explore the famous Franz Josef glacier.
