The west coast of the south island is reknowned “Glacier Country” with views of the two easily accessible glaciers, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier. You can view both either by viewpoints on land or by air. Be warned if you are planning a helicopter trip book well ahead of time in peak periods and be prepared for it to be cancelled or rescheduled due to weather.
We did look at a couple of short helicopter rides, however, the clouds quickly rolled in and the views from the viewpoints (with the help of a zoom lens) were good enough for us.
From Hokitika it is a two hour drive to Franz Josef. If you have time bypass and see Hokitika Gorge which is a 30 minute detour and a 2 kilometer hike.
Franz Josef GLacier
We bypassed the town and went straight to the glacier viewing point. Once parked its a short, easy 1.2 km walk to the viewing point; although with a decent zoom you can see it from the carpark (see first photo below).
Even on a miserable grey day (very common in this part of NZ) the bright blue of the glacier itself can be seen.
After seeing the glacier we drove back into the Franz Josef township to get a bite to eat but everything was closed so we set off for Fox Glacier.
Fox Glacier
We stayed two nights at Fox Glacier, 30 minutes from Franz Josef, with a few more eating and accommodation options. My recommendation would be to stay in Fox Glacier over Franz Josef.
There is a valley walk to get closer to the Fox Glacier, however we just headed to the lookout point which is in the opposite direction but a good view straight up the valley.
Lake MathEson
While staying in the region the walk around Lake Matheson is a must do, there are some epic views (on the right day) and the chance of getting some great reflection photos in the lake.
After completing the 2.6 km loop stop by the Matheson Cafe to refuel, their breakfasts are amazing.
Gillespies Beach
Some places are about the journey and not the destination, this beach was that. The drive was adventurous and scenic, however, once we reached the beach it was a bit underwhelming, but still worth a look and a nice place for a picnic lunch.
The Wayfarers Lens 