Whether you’ve driven from the ski fields of Queenstown, tiki-toured from Christchurch, or cruised the Cook Strait from the sunny north, visiting the untamed natural wilderness of the West Coast means covering some land. But what many don’t realise is that there are multiple routes, transportation options, and stunning stops to enjoy before arriving at Franz Josef Glacier. Explore some of our favourite routes and travel tips below.
Photo Credit – Glacier Country Website
Route 1: Southern Voyage
Transportation: Car
Approximate Drive Time: 4 hours and 40 minutes
With Queenstown International Airport making southern travel more convenient than ever, this journey is as beautiful as it is accessible. Set off from Queenstown and cruise along the stunning shores of Lake Wanaka—just remember to fuel up first! Your first must-see stop is the famous Blue Pools near Makarora, a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Continuing, you’ll pass through Haast, situated in the heart of Te Waipounamu World Heritage Area. Be sure to grab some snacks at the local On-The-Spot store before heading up the coast toward Franz Josef. The drive offers a full day of adventure, including beaches, shipwrecks, and the start of Glacier Country! And if driving isn’t your thing, Intercity Buses also offer services on this route.
Route 2: Christchurch Tiki-tour via Campervan
Approximate Drive Time: 5 hours
Arthurs Pass, the link between the East and West Coasts, is famous for its scenic beauty, making this drive unforgettable. Once you’ve fuelled up the camper, all that’s left is to relax and enjoy the journey. Be sure to stop in Arthurs Pass Village, where you might meet the cheeky and endangered alpine parrot, the Kea. Just keep an eye on your windshield wipers — Kea are known for being mischievous!
As you continue, you’ll encounter waterfalls, sweeping farmlands, and possibly a passing train or two. The next pit stop is Hokitika, where you can grab supplies and prepare for the final leg of your journey. From Hokitika, you’re just 1.5 hours away from Franz Josef! If you’d prefer not to drive, the famous Trans Alpine Train can take you from Christchurch to Greymouth—only two hours from Franz.
Route 3: Southern Alps Spectacular
Transportation: Fixed-wing Aircraft
Approximate Fly Time: 1 hour each way
For a truly luxurious experience, start your Franz Josef Glacier adventure with a breathtaking fixed-wing flight over the Southern Alps. True South Scenic Flights, based in Queenstown, will whisk you away over fjords, towering peaks, and more than 3,000 glaciers. You’ll even get an exclusive aerial view of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Upon landing at the local airstrip in Franz Josef, your Glacier Guide will meet you for an unforgettable heli-hike on Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. After your adventure, your pilot will fly you back to Queenstown, just in time to reminisce about your incredible day.
Route 4: North to South Exploration
Transportation: Plane, Bus, Car, and Ferry
Approximate Time: Recommend a day or two for exploration!
Travelling from the North Island gives you plenty of options! You can fly into Christchurch or Queenstown and follow one of the routes above, or take the Interislander Ferry across Cook Strait to Picton. From there, explore the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park and other coastal gems on your way south.
Our top pick? Punakaiki! Famous for its Pancake Rocks and blowholes, this hidden gem offers beach walks, and starfish colonies, and is a great stop on the Pounamu Pathways, an interactive journey into New Zealand’s rich Māori culture. You can also continue the Pounamu Pathways journey in Greymouth before heading south through Hokitika Gorge and onto Franz Josef Glacier. For more information about Pounamu Pathways, click here.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
These are just a few of the fantastic ways to travel to the West Coast, but there are many more! For more information on planning your journey, visit the Glacier Country website or contact the friendly team at Hokitika i-SITE for expert advice on your travel options.