A visit to a glacier is a must-do while you are on a road trip around New Zealand. New Zealand is home to over 3,000 glaciers, the majority of which are mostly located on the Main Divide of the Southern Alps on the South Island. They are natural wonders which will leave you speechless. To help you choose which glacier to visit first, we have selected 5 stunning glaciers that are accessible to all.
Fox Glacier
One of the most well-known glaciers in New Zealand is Fox Glacier. The glacier and village are named after Sir William Fox, New Zealand’s Prime Minister from 1690 to 1872.
There is a short self-guided walk to the terminal face of the glacier. It can take between 30 minutes to an hour one way. Be aware the terrain is rocky to the base of the glacier. There is an option to book a guided walk with Fox Glacier Guiding. If you would like to experience Fox Glacier up close, you can book a heli-hike or ice climbing tour with Fox Glacier Guiding too.
Hooker Glacier
Hooker Glacier is one of the many glaciers close to Aoraki/Mt Cook. There is a stunning walking track called the Hooker Valley Track that takes you to the edge of Hooker Lake, where you will see icebergs that were set adrift from Hooker Glacier. This is an 11km return walk and can take up to 3 hours to complete. You will be in awe of the magnificent surroundings on this walk. If you don’t feel like walking, book a scenic flight with Mt Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters, and enjoy the amazing views from above.
Rob Roy Glacier
Rob Roy Glacier is a small hanging glacier located in the Southern Alps in Mount Aspiring National Park. There is an easy 10km return track that leads you through a dramatic alpine landscape that includes waterfalls and sheer rock cliffs to the viewing point of the glacier. This is an enjoyable and beautiful walk, but it is recommended to check the Department of Conservation website for any track alerts if you decide to do this track during wintertime.
Franz Josef
Franz Josef Glacier is situated in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Its location is in a World Heritage area, and it is named after an Austrian Emperor. Franz Josef Glacier is a 30-minute drive from Fox Glacier, and it is recommended to visit both while you are on the West Coast. The only way to experience the Franz Josef Glacier is to book a scenic flight or a heli-hike. You can book a heli-hike with Franz Josef Glaciers which is a combination of a helicopter ride and a 2 and half-hour hike through glacier features. Or book a scenic flight with snow landing with Glacier Helicopters. Either option will make for an unforgettable experience.
Tasman Glacier
The Tasman Glacier is the largest in New Zealand, it is 23km long, 4 kilometres wide and 600 metres (2,000 ft) thick and lies entirely within the borders of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. To view the glacier there is a 40-minute return walk in Mt Cook National Park. The track leads you to a viewing point where you can enjoy magnificent views of the lower Haupapa/Tasman Glacier and lake, icebergs, and the mountains at the head of the valley. To get closer to the glacier you can book a heli hike experience with The Helicopter Line. Or for more experienced hikers there is an option to take on the Ball Pass Crossing. This is a demanding 2 - 3-day alpine route that provides spectacular views of Aoraki/Mt Cook, Mt Sefton, the Copland Pass and both the Hooker and Tasman Glaciers.
Recommended Vehicle: Station Wagon
If you are thinking of taking a road trip with friends and experiencing the stunning glaciers, the station wagon is the best choice. There’s space for five people and plenty of luggage - ideal for families, and groups of adults. Perfect for travellers looking for the fuel efficiency of a small car with the space of a large one.
