Special Attractions and Activities Nearby
Franz Josef Glacier area has some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Just six kilometres from the centre of the village, Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere descends from the tops of the Southern Alps/Ka Tiritiri o te Moana into rainforest close to sea level. Ten minutes’ drive north of the Franz Josef Glacier village on State Highway 6 is the beautiful Lake Mapourika, a great place for fishing, birdwatching and kayaking. Waimanu House is located between these two places surrounded by mountain views and lush rainforest. The view from the garden is of Okarito Sanctuary, home to the Rowi kiwi. With over 400 birds now calling it their home you may get to hear one call at night! Franz is at the heart of Predator Free South Westland, Aotearoa’s first predator-free landscape, the project is a flagship for the national Predator Free 2050 mission—restoring precious native wildlife like the kea, kotuku/white heron, and rowi/Okarito brown kiwi, and giving our forests and ecosystems the best chance to thrive. There are many great tours and opportunities to see and hear the native flora and fauna of the area plus some thrill seeking excursions too! Things to do include: Heli rides to the Glaciers - there are many Heli operators in town offering trips to a number of glacier destinations. Franz Josef Glacier Guides - Glacier Heli hike & ice climbing tours Glacier Valley Eco Tours - guided nature tours throughout Glacier country. Franz Josef Wilderness Tours - kayak and boat tours, plus quad bike adventures. Okarito Eco Boat Tour - a magical trip on New Zealand's most extensive unspoiled wetland. A haven for bird watchers! Okarito Kiwi Tour - The only licenced kiwi tour operator on the South Island that can take you to look for wild kiwi! Okarito Kayaks - a beautiful kayaking experience on the stunning Okarito Lagoon with amazing Southern Alps views. White Heron Sanctuary Tours - New Zealand's only kotuku breeding ground.
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