The magical Franz Josef Glacier

  • Bunnik Tours
  • 15 Jul 20

The Franz Josef Glacier, or Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere as it is known in Māori, is a spectacular 12-kilometre-long temperate maritime glacier on the western coast at the Westland Tai Poutini National Park in New Zealand.

Photo credit: Miles Holden

Photo credit: Miles Holden

First explored in 1865 by Julius von Haast, this stunning glacier was named after an Austrian emperor.

Photo credit: Phil Whitehouse under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

Fluctuating between a cyclic pattern of advance and retreat, the Franz Josef glacier is fed by a 20-square-kilometre snowfield and loses volume through the meltwaters at the foot of the glacier.

Photo credit: John Vossen from Pixabay

Being one of the main tourist attractions on New Zealand’s west coast, the Franz Josef Glacier is an incredible natural beauty that is a must see. For the most awe-striking view we recommend you opt for a scenic helicopter ride. You choose to either just fly over the top experiencing some incredible views, or land on the glacier for a hike on this unique, icy landscape.

Franz Josef

Photo credit: Belle Hunt/Unsplash