Exploring Glacier Country in Westland
Glacier Country, located within the Westland and Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area, is a captivating region in the South Island of New Zealand. It encompasses the renowned Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Fox Glacier / Te Moeka o Tuawe. The area is roughly bordered by Whataroa to the north and Gillespies Beach, Lake Matheson, and Fox Glacier to the south. This region is not only famous for its stunning glaciers but also for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities.
The Glaciers and Gateway Towns
Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are the longest in a series of glaciers extending northwest from the high peaks of Aoraki Mt Cook and Mount Tasman. These glaciers have been popular tourist destinations for many years. The small towns of Franz Josef / Waiau and Fox Glacier serve as gateways, providing support and amenities for travellers. Despite significant retreats in recent decades, the glaciers remain accessible from State Highway 6.
Walking Tracks and Tours
To experience the glaciers up close, you can choose from several walking tracks leading to stunning viewpoints or join commercial tours onto the ice. Walking trails follow the paths of glacial retreat, with Fox Glacier being more accessible. Shorter walks are available onto the glacial moraine and through nearby lakes and rainforests. At Franz Josef, the Roberts Point Track and Alex Knob Track offer excellent hiking opportunities, climbing to high viewpoints on either side of the glacial valley.
Māori Narratives and Names
Māori explored and traversed Glaice Country, with trails through the Southern Alps for trade and pounamu (greenstone) gathering. The Māori names tell the story of Hine Hukatere, a mountain climber whose lover, Tuawe, died in an avalanche. Her tears formed Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (the tears of Hine Hukatere), while Te Moeka o Tuawe (the final resting place of Tuawe) marks the place where he came to rest.
European exploration came in the mid-1860s, with Franz Josef Glacier named in 1865 by German explorer Julius von Haast after the Austrian emperor. Fox Glacier was named in 1872 for then Prime Minister Sir William Fox, who at least visited the area.
Beyond the Glaciers
Glacier Country is not just about glaciers. North of Franz Josef, Lake Mapourika is ideal for camping and water activities. From there, you can visit the coastal area of Ōkārito, known for its expansive lagoon. A hike through the wetland leads to the Ōkārito Trig Walk, offering panoramic views.
Further south, a side trip to Lake Matheson is recommended. On a calm day, the lake provides perfect mirror reflections of the Southern Alps / Kā Tiritiri o te Moana, with Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Tasman Rarakiroa prominently featured.
Getting to Glacier Country
Glacier Country is located along State Highway 6. From Hokitika, it takes about two hours to reach Franz Josef Waiau. If you're coming from Haast, a 90-minute drive north will bring you to Fox Glacier. The highway between these towns is one of New Zealand's most scenic drives, crossing two saddles along the Southern Alps.
