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Franz Josef Glacier location, Heli hikes and Heli tours | Getting there guide

Route guide to Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Nestled in the striking landscape of New Zealand's South Island, the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are two of the most accessible and awe-inspiring glaciers in the world. These natural wonders are unique for their proximity to the coast and lush rainforests, offering a rare combination of ice and greenery. This page provides detailed information on how to reach these natural wonders, including transportation options and FAQs for a seamless journey.

Locating Franz Josef and Fox glacier

Franz Josef Glacier

  • Address: Te Ao Marama, Glacier Base, 63 cron street Franz Josef Glacier Franz Josef Glacier, 7886, New Zealand. Find on maps
  • Franz Josef Glacier is located on New Zealand’s South Island, within Westland Tai Poutini National Park, just 5 kilometers from the town of Franz Josef/Waiau. Nearby, Fox Glacier offers similarly gorgeous landscapes. Both glaciers descend from the Southern Alps, providing views of ice and dense rainforest. The area is also close to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts.
  • Closest landmark: Roberts Track Views Platform (400 m)

Fox Glacier

  • Address: 44 Main Road, State Highway 6, Fox Glacier 7859, New Zealand. Find on maps
  • Fox Glacier is located on New Zealand’s South Island in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, about 23 kilometers south of Franz Josef Glacier. It is accessible from the village of Fox Glacier, nestled between the Southern Alps and coastal rainforest. Nearby landmarks include Lake Matheson, known for its reflective views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
  • Closest landmark: Chancellor Hut (200 m)

​Plan your visit to Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Getting to Franz Josef Glacier by Public Transport

By Bus

Travel time: 3 to 4 hours

Closest stop: Franz Josef

Timings: 1:30 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

InterCity buses provide direct service from Greymouth to Franz Josef. The journey offers a picturesque view of New Zealand's landscapes.

By Train

Travel time: The TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth takes approximately 5 hours. From there, a bus ride to Franz Josef Glacier takes around 4 hours.

Closest station: The closest train station is Greymouth, where you can transfer to a bus for the remainder of the trip.

Timings: The TranzAlpine departs Christchurch daily at 8:15 AM and arrives in Greymouth around 1:10 PM. The connecting bus departs at 1:30 PM and reaches Franz Josef around 5:04 PM.

The TranzAlpine offers a dramatic journey through the Southern Alps. After reaching Greymouth, InterCity and other bus services connect to Franz Josef. Tickets should be booked in advance for both trains and buses.

Getting to Fox Glacier by Public Transport

By Bus

Travel time: Around 4 hours

Closest stop: Fox Glacier

Timings: 1:30 PM (Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday)

InterCity operates buses from Greymouth to Fox Glacier. They depart from the Greymouth Railway Station and drop passengers outside the Fox Glacier Guiding, which is close to many walking trails and glacier activities.

By train

Travel time: Approximately 9.5 hours

Closest station: Greymouth Railway Station

Timings: The TranzAlpine train departs from Christchurch at 8:15 AM and arrives in Greymouth at 1:30 PM. Bus services from Greymouth to Fox Glacier typically depart shortly after the train's arrival and continue until the early evening.

Take the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch, offering spectacular views of the Southern Alps. Upon arriving at Greymouth, transfer to an InterCity or local bus service heading south on SH 6 to Fox Glacier. The bus stop is conveniently located near the village, providing easy access to the glacier and nearby attractions.

Getting to Franz Josef and Fox Glacier by Car

From Christchurch to Franz Josef

Travel time: Approximately 5 hours

From Christchurch, head west on SH 73 through the flat landscapes of the Canterbury Plains. As you approach Arthur's Pass, you'll drive through the spectacular national park area, characterized by mountainous terrain. At Kumara Junction, merge onto SH 6 south, passing through Greymouth and Hokitika. Continue south on SH 6 until you reach Franz Josef.

There are several parking facilities available, including options for disabled people.

From Greymouth to Franz Josef

Travel time: Approximately 2.5 hours

Leave Greymouth heading south on SH 6. The journey is straightforward, hugging the rugged West Coast. Pass through the charming town of Hokitika, and continue southward to Franz Josef. This is the fastest route to reach the destination.

Ample parking spaces, including designated spots for the disabled, are available in and around Franz Josef.

From Hokitika to Franz Josef

Travel time: Approximately 1.5 hours

From Hokitika, head south on SH 6. The route offers stunning coastal views as you make your way through luxuriant rainforests. Continue along SH 6 until you arrive at Franz Josef.

Parking facilities with accessible spaces for disabled people are available.

Franz Josef to Fox Glacier

Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes

From Franz Josef, continue south on SH 6 for about 24 kilometers. The drive is short but lovely, with picturesque views of the Southern Alps and dense native bush. Follow the signs to reach Fox Glacier.

Fox Glacier offers wheelchair-accessible parking facilities conveniently located near the glacier access points.

Parking Facilities

Franz Josef Glacier Car Park: Located at the end of the Franz Josef Glacier Access Road, this is the closest parking facility to the glacier trailhead, only 230 m away.

Glacier Country Heliport Car Park: Approximately 5 km from the glacier, this facility offers paid day parking services.

Lake Matheson Parking: Located around 5 km from Fox Glacier Village, this facility has ample parking for campervans and is wheelchair accessible.

Best ways to get to Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

  • Budget-friendly: Taking a bus is the most budget-friendly option for traveling to Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. InterCity and local bus services offer affordable fares with beautiful views along the West Coast, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to save money while enjoying the landscape.
  • Fastest route: For those on a time crunch, driving by car is the fastest way to reach Franz Josef, and from Franz Josef to Fox Glacier, it’s a short 30-minute drive. The direct route via SH 6 from nearby cities like Hokitika offers flexibility in departure times and reduces travel time compared to public transport.
  • Sight-seeing: Exploring Franz Josef and Fox Glacier on foot or by bike is ideal for first-time visitors. The village and surrounding trails offer astonishing views of the glacier, rainforest, and local wildlife, providing an immersive experience that showcases the area's natural beauty. Cycling allows you to cover more ground while still enjoying the breathtaking landscapes.

Frequently asked questions about getting to Franz Josef and Fox Glacier

The best way to get to Franz Josef depends on your preferences. For the quickest route, driving from nearby cities like Hokitika or Greymouth is ideal. For a scenic journey, consider taking the TranzAlpine train to Greymouth and then catching a bus. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, a bus from cities like Christchurch or Greymouth is economical.