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Location

Where is Franz Josef Glacier?

Franz Josef Glacier is on the South Island of New Zealand and the glacier starts from the craggy mountain peaks of the Southern Alps on the remote West Coast.

More specifically, Franz Josef Glacier is within the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Despite its remote setting, Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, a glacier that you can view from a viewpoint (a short valley walk from a convenient car park) or one that you can walk on donning crampons as part of a heli-hike guided tour.

Heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier
Heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier

The nearest town is the Franz Josef township, which though tiny includes an airport (for helicopters and scenic flights) and accommodation.

Driving distances from the nearest big cities:

Planning a trip to see the glacier? Visit our Franz Josef Glacier home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!