In Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier, a paradox. A top accommodation facility, metres from some of the best cappuccino and food on the West Coast. Yet this remote village is set in the tranquility of Westland National Park and South West World Heritage area; a wonderful relaxing bush environment with one of only three glaciers in the world that descend from crisp, clear snow capped mountains into lush green temperate rainforest.

The township is located just 5 kilometres from the glacier and uniquely, just 6 kilometres from the pounding surf of the Tasman Sea. It is nestled in the rainforest at the foot of precipitous mountains and offers a wide range of alpine and adventure activities.

Fox offers any traveller so many points of interest you’ll want to see them all! We are just an 10 minute drive from the renowned Lake Matheson (“reflection lake”), a mere 5 minute drive to the glacier car park and just a 20 minute drive from rainforest encompassed hot pools. We have Gillespies Beach 20 minutes away which has a great collection of walks including a seal colony, historic gold dredge, lagoon, wild sheep, cycling track and cave.

We are enthusiastic and genuine hosts who hope to make your time in Fox Glacier memorable for all the right reasons.

Any questions? Just give us a call! Curious about what else awaits you in Fox Glacier?

Here are a few of our recommended suggestions:

The Glacier

The glacier descends 2500 metres in a journey of over 13 kilometres and is remarkable in that it is so accessible. From the carpark an easy walk that is suitable for all ages will take you to the towering terminal face of the glacier. Alternatively there are options for you to take a scenic flight over the glacier or a guided walk onto the glacier itself (note that it is very dangerous to walk on the glacier without a guide).

For those who would like to experience walking on ice and learning about the glacier, this is a must. You will be provided with socks, boots, crampons and a waterproof coat and will be given a briefing before setting off for the glacier with a guide. There are ½ day walks for everyone and full day options for the more intrepid. It must rank as one of the best value attractions in New Zealand.

Fox Guides: www.foxguides.co.nz

Forty minutes of fantastic viewing as you fly up Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, circle the majestic peak of Mount Cook and land at the head of snow accumulation for some time on the snow to absorb the overwhelming feelings of isolation and awe. Shorter flights are also available and give you the chance to see the glacier and surrounds from an aerial perspective.

Glacier Helicopters: www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz

The Helicopter Line: www.helicopter.co.nz

Fox & Franz Heliservices: www.scenic-flights.co.nz

Mt Cook Skiplanes: www.mtcookskiplanes.com

Mountain Helicopters: www.mountainhelicopters.co.nz

Cost: $270-$480 per person.

This lake offers breathtaking views of Mount Cook and the Southern Alps. Set amongst the lush, temperate rainforest, the lake offers near perfect reflections of the Southern Alps. The lake is a short drive from Fox Glacier village. The views are worth the short walk through lush native bush along the well-formed walking track.

If you don’t feel like driving, hire your bike with us.

See our rates HERE

Visit NZ’s only White Heron nesting colony. View the Herons, Royal Spoonbill, Little Shag and other Birdlife, all in their natural environment.

WHITE HERON SANCTUARY TOURS

Includes: Coach and jet boat ride on Waitangitoana River to access sanctuary.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Cost: NZ$150 per adult, NZ$75 per child up to 12 years.

Fox Glacier Bike Rental offers great mountain bike hire at The Westhaven. All bikes are suitable for all levels of cycling and we also have smaller bikes for the kids and a bike trailer for toddlers or a tag along bike for those who want to ride their own bike but have mum or dad do all the pedalling!!. There are so great new cycleways in Fox Glacier and well worth exploring on your visit here.

Come and see us at reception for for details.

Bike hire rates are

1h : NZ$5
2h : NZ$10
3-4h : NZ$15
Full day hire : NZ$25