Fox and Franz Josef Glacier

(See also Westland & Mount Cook)

Fox glacier is 13 km in length and Franz Josef Glacier is approximately 10 km long. Both Glaciers descend the steep mountain sides to the west. In the Nevé (a huge basin high up in the mountains) the snow collects.

The glaciers form from the weighty layers of snow compacting into hard blue ice. The pressure of snow above and gravitational pull force the ice down the valley to within 200 metres above sea level and within a few kilometres of the main road. At such low levels the terminal face is constantly melting. Because of it's steepness and location, the Franz Josef Glacier is the most dynamic in the world and responds quickly to variations of precipitation and temperature. Visiting the glaciers is a must - see attraction. You can walk to within metres of the terminal face - or take a guided walk onto the glacier itself. Helicopter flights are also available, with the option of a glacier landing as well. For one of New Zealand's most famous postcard views, a short drive west of Fox Glacier township brings you to Lake Matheson. The dark waters of this tranquil Lake provide a picture-perfect reflection of the southern alps beyond.