logo click here to make a booking banner_image

Things to do

It is not until you place your footprints onto a high alpine snow field, journey deep into the towering rainforests, explore the blue ice caves of the glaciers, tackle a trout on a beautiful lake or jetboat up a glacial river, that you will truly experience Glacier Country.

Glacier Hot Pools 

The Glacier Hot pools are just a minutes walk from your accommodation
The new Glacier Hot Pools are nestled in the rain forest just down from your accommodation. An evening under the stars, sheltered by nature’s leafy canopy at the Glacier Hot Pools, is a truly enchanting, rejuvenating and unforgettable experience.

Glacier Country Lake & Fishing Tours
Eco Cruise on a Glacier formed lake 1.5 hour personally guided lake eco cruse around a glacier formed lake. You will either be surrounded by a magical mist or treated to brilliant views towards the spine of the Southern Alps.

Across Country Quad Bikes
Quad Bike Adventures 400cc of pure grunt will take you out on the river bed to get a great view of the glacier – and some mud!  These two hour trips depart frequently throughout the day. E-mail us at for up to date information and availability.

Scenic Flights
A flight is the best way to get a perspective of it all Helicopter and fixed wing flights are the most popular way to view of the rivers of ice.  E-mail us for up to date flight paths, availibility and specials. Bookings essential. Flights do not depart unless the weather is suitable so payment is not taken until your flight is confirmed. A 20 minute flight including snow landing is available from $180 per person. E-mail us at for more information and to check availability.

Okarito Kiwi Adventure Trips
Kiwi tours are just a 20 min drive from the Franz Josef Village Join Ian and his team on dusk at their Okarito base to head out and visit the Okarito Bown Kiwi.  You will join a small group for a 2-3 hour walk. There is a 90% chance of viewing the kiwi.

Buggy / Off-Road Fun
Great for younger family members - either a loop track or a hour long bush tour! Family fun for everyone – Get up close and personal with our region while having a blast! Off-road 250cc (2 seater go karts) are located 5 kms south of Franz Josef.  Off-road driving through rainforests and beautiful farm country with spectacular mountain views are an affordable, fun activity for the whole family.  E-mail us at  for more information and bookings.

Glacier Guided walks
You get provided boots, crampons, rain jackets & leggings, gloves.  1/2 day $96 - Full day $150  Whether you choose the half day walk, full day walk or the Heli Hike your experience will be magical. Departure times are available to suit most plans. A moderate fitness level is needed. Bookings are essential. E-mail us at to check availability and for up to date information.

Kayaking
Several Kayaking trips depart from just up the road from our place Enjoy the quiet and tranquility of either a guided kayak tour or kayaking independently. Marvel at the spectacular views of New Zealand's highest mountain peaks which are often mirrored on the black tannin-filled waters of the lake. 

Glacier Valley Walks
The Glacier Valley is dynamic! This tour is the best way to gain a meangfull understanding of the Glacier with out having to climp up on to it! If you want to venture beyond where unguided visitors can safely go, this 3 hour fully guided walk up the glacier valley is for you.  Departs several times daily.

White Herrons
Visit New Zealand’s only White Heron (Kotuku) nesting colony  - Seasonal October to March - View the magnificent Kotuku, Royal Spoonbill, Little Shag and other birdlife, all in their natural environment  After a river jet boat journey which takes you to the head of the Okarito Lagoon, you make your way along an easy board-walk before arriving at the hide. The birds nest on only this one corner of the river every year.

Horse Treks
What a back drop - Tours to suit all abilities From beginners to advanced. Enjoy our place from horse back!

Rain Forest, Glacier Valley & Beach Walks / Tramps
There are many walks - check them out here From wheelchair accessable walks to Peters Pool through to day tramps to Alex Knob and Roberts Point there are excellent quality marked trails for everyone to enjoy! 

embed>


back_to_top  Back to top

Bella Vista and Franz Josef at a Glance



There is so much to do in Franz Josef!


  • Franz Josef Glacier
  • Valley Walks
  • Scenic Flights
  • Ice Climbing
  • Heli Hiking
  • Glacier Experience
  • Fishing Tours
  • Lake Mapourika
  • Okarito Lagoon
  • Sample Local Fare
  • or Just Relax!
qualmark