Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere) was explored by local iwi and in 1865 by geologist Julius von Haast, who named it after the Austrian emperor. The glacier is five kilometres from the town of the same name, and a 1.5 hour walk will take you to within 750m of its terminal face.
If you want to actually make contact with the glacier, we can organise a heli hike or a guided glacier walk. Aerial sightseeing is another option via helicopter or fixed wing aircraft. You will never forget your first experience of stepping out onto the ice.
There’s a range of natural attractions in close proximity to Franz Josef Glacier Village. Lose yourself in the native rainforests, waterfalls, and clear lakes. Recommended activities include a range of lake tours, kayaking, biking, hot pools, clay bird shooting, horse treks and quad biking.
In the town itself, you’ll find plenty of places to stay with the Scenic Circle Hotel and many motels to select from. Places to eat such as Snake Bite or Monsoon Bar offer a neat place for entertaining your delegates or relax at the end of the day in the Glacier Hot Pools or explore the Wildlife Centre.
The Glaciers is situated 2.5 hours’ drive from central West Coast, Greymouth. Ideal itineraries would include a scenic TranzAlpine train journey or Air NZ flight into Hokitika before taking a coach onwards to the Glaciers to then continue your conference or incentive programme. Ending your travel in either Queenstown or Hokitika to return delegate’s home.
The drive is spectacular through native West Coast bush while taking in the ocean and mountain views.
