Fox, Franz Josef or Tasman? Not sure which glacier to choose?

Learn about the differences between Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, their townships and why it's important you arrive at the correct base for your flight. Most importantly, our glaciers are receding. The only wrong decision would be to miss the opportunity to experience them before they disappear forever.

ABOUT THE FOX GLACIER AREA

  • Fox Glacier is the biggest of the two West Coast glaciers.
  • It's 2km longer than Franz Josef Glacier and every bit as impressive.
  • It has a gradual incline, provides views of the mighty Mount Cook and finishes 12.5 km from the Tasman Sea.
  • Fox is also home to nearby stunning Lake Matheson with its picture-perfect mountain reflections.
  • The township of Fox is likely preferred by those wanting a quieter pace favouring 'off the beaten track' style experiences and natural sights.
  • Fox and Franz Josef are 30 mins drive from each other. With 4 flights departing from Fox.
  • If you choose to stay here you will only ever be 10 mins max away from the Fox Glacier Helicopter base.
  • If you would prefer to stay in Fox but start your flight in Franz you will need to leave at least an hour before your flight time in order to check in 30 mins before your flight.


ABOUT THE FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER AREA

  • Franz Josef glacier is steeper than Fox glacier so some see it as more dramatic.
  • Finishing 19km from the coast, it's the most affected by conditions causing advances and retreats.
  • Franz Josef is the busiest of the two glaciers.
  • Franz is more developed than the Fox townships with a wider range of accommodation, restaurants and shops.
  • Home to the West Coast Wildlife Centre, the Glacier Hot Pools and the Okarito Lagoon. Go explore!
  • Fox and Franz Josef are 30 mins drive apart. We have 3 flights that depart from Franz.
  • If you choose to stay in Franz you will only ever be 10 mins away from the Franz Glacier Helicopters base.
  • If you would prefer to stay in Franz but do a flight from Fox you will need to leave at least 1 hour before your flight time to check in 30 mins before your flight.

ABOUT THE TASMAN GLACIER AREA

  • Located in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, The Tasman Glacier is the largest glacier in Aotearoa New Zealand, measuring 23.5 km long and as much as 4 km wide. The area covers 101 sq km.
  • The Tasman Glacier makes up nearly 1/3 of all glacier ice in New Zealand.
  • During winter and spring, snowfall is up to 12.5 metres at the top of the Tasman Glacier.
  • Tasman Lake is a proglacial lake, formed in the mid-1980s as a result of the retreat of the Tasman Glacier. You’ll be able to see icebergs floating on the surface of the lake.
  • The Tasman Glacier flows southeast towards the Mackenzie Basin from the Southern Alps.
  • Aoraki / Mount Cook is the tallest peak in New Zealand, measuring at 3,724 metres tall.
  • The Tasman Glacier is accessible, with well-maintained tracks and viewpoints. The area is worth visiting for its incredible views and rich geological history. You can hike, Heli Hike, ice climb, kayak, view wildlife, and stargaze.
  • The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve protects the night sky from light pollution. The largest in the world and the only dark sky reserve in the southern hemisphere is only one of eight in the world.
  • If you’re not planning to stay in Aoraki / Mount Cook Village when visiting, Twizel is a convenient and charming, nearby town.
Glacier Locations
Flight paths
Map

Select Departure Location

Franz Josef OR Fox Glacier

Learn more about each departure location here