Fox Glacier and Franz Glacier - South Island, New Zealand

One of the biggest draw cards to the West Coast is the massive icy fracturing of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.

Located in Westland National Park and only 25 kilometres from each other, these giant frozen masses of ice grind down through rain forest to just 300 meters (984 ft) above sea level.

Years of heavy snowfall high in the mountains caused both glaciers to begin advancing in 1982. During the last decade the Franz Josef has advanced 1 mile down the valley, and although the Fox Glacier's advance has slowed it still extends 600 meters further down the valley than it did in 1982.

The best way to see the glaciers is on a guided half or full day walk, or a heli-hike. The more adventurous can try their hand at ice climbing. Two small but buzzing townships, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef cater to all the needs of visitors to the glaciers.

Fox Glacier and Franz Glacier Accommodation

Franz and Fox Villages although small, are popular visitor destinations and offer a good range of hotels, motels, backpackers and camping grounds - but it does pay to book ahead.

There is plenty of accommodation covering all budgets. There are plenty of dining selections ranging from country pubs to cosy cafes and restaurants.

Fox Glacier and Franz Glacier Activities

Each town has a Department of Conservation office which provides information on all the activities available in the area.

There are 110 kilometres (68 miles) of walking tracks through a sanctuary of native forest and birdlife, punctuated by the peaks of Mt Cook, Mt Tasman and La Perouse. This trio of mountains is mirrored in Lake Matheson, one of the park's three serene lakes.

Just 10 minutes north of Franz Josef village is Lake Mapourika, the largest and arguably the most stunning of south Westland's stunning lakes.

LooknbookNZ can organise your Fox Glacier and Franz Glacier accommodation and Fox Glacier and Franz Glacier activities allowing you and your family/friends have a fantastic experience in the majestic presence of the imposing glaciers and their incredible surroundings.