Caving in Glacier Country

Glacier Country: Where the Southern Alps Meet the West Coast

Glacier Country stretches along the central West Coast of New Zealand's South Island encompassing the neighbouring communities of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. Framed by the Southern Alps to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west. It is also a part of the internationally recognised Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area. 

Travelling through Franz Josef and Fox Glacier communities reveals constantly changing landscapes of alpine peaks, glacier-fed rivers, native forest, and dramatic coastline. Creating a landscape perfect for exploring national parks, hiking tours and scenic helicopter landings.

Despite its remote setting, the community offers excellent visitor facilities while maintaining the relaxed atmosphere that characterises the West Coast. It is also a natural stop between Hokitika and Haast, making it a key destination on any West Coast road trip.

World-Famous Glaciers & Iconic Natural Attractions

The defining attraction of Glacier Country is its collection of remarkable Glaciers, particularly Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier.

Flowing from the high peaks of the Southern Alps, these rivers of ice have shaped the landscape over thousands of years and remain among New Zealand's most recognisable natural landmarks. 

Although some areas have limited its access in recent decades, visitors can still enjoy spectacular viewpoints, guided walks and unforgettable scenic flight tours in the best vantage spots, showcasing icefalls and snow-covered summits from above. Each glacier offers a different perspective on the region's alpine environment, while nearby valleys  provide excellent opportunities to appreciate their immense scale. 

Adventure and Scenic Experiences Throughout Glacier Country

Glacier Country is one of New Zealand's leading destinations for outdoor adventure and nature-based experiences.

Visitors can explore an extensive network of hiking tracks that range from easy rainforest strolls to glacier viewing trails with impressive alpine scenery.

Taking a scenic helicopter flight remains one of the most popular ways to experience the region, often including snow landings on the upper glaciers for panoramic views of the Southern Alps. Nearby lakes, can give you a slower-paced way to enjoy the surrounding rainforest and mountain reflections with kayaking or canoeing.

More guided adventure activities, wildlife encounters and scenic drives between Hokitika, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier and Haast ensure there is something for every style of traveller exploring the heart of the West Coast.

Rainforests, Lakes and Alpine Wilderness in Glacier Country

Beyond its famous glaciers, Glacier Country is a region of remarkable ecological diversity. 

Nearby Lakes such as Lake Matheson and Lake Mapourika provide peaceful settings surrounded by podocarp forests and native bush. These landscapes support abundant birdlife, including kererū, tūī and other native species commonly found throughout the West Coast.  

Protected within surrounding National Parks and conservation areas, the region offers countless opportunities to experience New Zealand's natural heritage. Whether exploring forest trails, enjoying Kayaking on calm waters or simply pausing at scenic lookouts, visitors quickly discover that Glacier Country offers far more than its famous ice formations.

UNESCO Heritage and Conservation Across Glacier Country

Glacier Country's landscapes hold deep cultural significance alongside their geological importance. The Franz Josef Glacier is known as Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere in te reo Māori, while Fox Glacier is known as Te Moeka o Tuawe, with both names reflecting traditional stories connected to the mountains and glaciers. 

These narratives remain an important part of the region's identity and enrich visitors' understanding of the landscape beyond its visual appeal. Today, much of Glacier Country is protected within the internationally recognised Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area, highlighting its outstanding natural value. 

Conservation plays a central role in preserving native forests, waterways and alpine ecosystems, allowing future generations to experience this extraordinary environment while supporting sustainable tourism throughout the West Coast.