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Fox Glacier , located in Westland Tai Poutini National Park on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island , is a large glacier with a length of 13 kilometers. Fox Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that is easily accessible to humans. The lowest point is only 300 meters above sea level, and the hiking altitude is only about 800 meters, providing a convenient environment for sightseeing. There is no need to worry about altitude sickness, making it one of the most popular glacier landscapes in the world.
About 18,000 years ago, Fox Glacier reached the sea, ending 10 kilometers from the coast. Flowing down from the southern foothills of the Alps, the glacier reaches the temperate rainforest just 300 meters below sea level. The famous Lake Matheson was formed by a massive glacial ice sheet left behind during the glacial retreat. Fox Glacier is one of only three glaciers in the world that flow into the rainforest.
Hiking or taking a helicopter are both excellent ways to visit. You can easily walk to the glacier, cross the river valley with steep cliffs on both sides, and admire the beautiful scenery of the glacier formed by thousands of years of melting and freezing; or take a helicopter to enjoy the white and blue scenery, and be able to land on the top of the glacier, allowing tourists to touch the purest glacier more than 2,000 meters above.
The temperature in New Zealand's South Island is relatively warm in summer, and tourists can participate in glacier hiking during this time.
Fox Glacier
The town of the same name is located near the glacier and has accommodation and dining options. It is a hub for visiting Fox Glacier.
Recommended play time: more than 3 hours
free
Additional charges apply for tours
All day
Fox Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in New Zealand. It is part of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park and has been a significant natural landmark for both scientists and tourists. The glacier's fast movement and unique surroundings make it an extraordinary site for both research and recreation.
Fox Glacier is located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, about 5 kilometers from the township of Fox Glacier. The easiest way to get there is by car or bus, with routes connecting from Franz Josef and other nearby towns. Walking is an option for exploring the local area around the glacier itself.
Fox Glacier is a natural attraction and is open year-round. However, the best times to visit are during the warmer months from November to March when weather conditions are most favorable for hiking and glacier tours. The glacier itself is accessible throughout the day, with peak times for tours being in the morning and late afternoon.
Access to Fox Glacier itself is free, but guided tours and helicopter flights have associated fees. Prices for guided walks start around NZD 100-150, while helicopter tours can cost from NZD 200-300, depending on the duration and type of flight. Tickets can be bought on-site or online through tour operators.
While it is not mandatory to book tickets in advance for walking tours, it is highly recommended to secure a spot for helicopter tours or guided walks during peak season (December to February). Booking at least 1-2 days in advance is advised for these popular activities.
To fully explore Fox Glacier, you’ll need around 3-4 hours for a guided walk or glacier valley tour. A helicopter flight takes about 30 minutes, and hiking to the Glacier Viewpoint can take 1-2 hours depending on your pace.
Yes, guided tours are available in English and sometimes in other languages (depending on availability). You can join a walking tour or take a heli-hike to explore the glacier more deeply with a knowledgeable guide.
The best photography spots include the Glacier Viewpoint, which offers expansive views of the glacier and the surrounding landscape. Helicopter flights provide an incredible aerial perspective. The ice caves and crevasses are also unique spots for close-up photography.
Start with a short hike or guided walk to the Glacier Viewpoint for panoramic views, then head to the ice caves for a closer look at the glacier’s formations. If you're on a helicopter tour, you'll be able to fly over the glacier and see its vast scale from the sky.
There are no night visits or light shows at Fox Glacier. The glacier and surrounding attractions are best experienced during the day, especially when guided tours are available. Helicopter tours are available during daylight hours.
Fox Glacier can get crowded during peak tourist season (December to February). To avoid the crowds, visit in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays. The shoulder seasons in spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) tend to be less busy.
There are basic facilities, including toilets, water stations, and rest areas near the Glacier Viewpoint and along the walking tracks. There are small cafes and shops in the nearby Fox Glacier Village where you can buy snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
The Glacier Viewpoint is accessible by a short, easy walk suitable for families with children or elderly visitors. However, exploring the glacier itself is only possible with a guided tour and requires a moderate level of fitness. Some parts of the area may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users.
While many businesses around Fox Glacier accept credit cards and mobile payments, it is still advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions, especially at local shops and outdoor activity providers.
Some restaurants in the area offer vegetarian and vegan options, but halal options may be limited. It's best to check the menu or ask the restaurant staff for specific dietary preferences.
There are several souvenir shops around the Fox Glacier area offering items such as T-shirts, local art, jewelry, and handcrafted goods. Popular souvenirs include glacier-themed memorabilia and items made from New Zealand jade (pounamu).
