3 Breathtaking Glaciers That You Shouldn’t Miss in New Zealand

Fox Glacier, New Zealand
Fox Glacier, New Zealand. Photo by Diego Catto on Unsplash

New Zealand probably isn’t the first place you think of when someone mentions glaciers, but it turns out it’s home to quite a few. If you’re in the mood to go glacier hunting while exploring this island country, here are three show-stopping glaciers worth putting on your travel itinerary.

Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier aka Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere is the most popular glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. There are many hikes and even helicopter rides in this area leading you to this stunning glacier, and despite many recent environmental changes that impacted it, Franz Josef remains one of the most accessible glaciers in all of New Zealand.

Fox Glacier

Located in close proximity to Franz Josef, Fox Glacier aka Te Moeka o Tuawe will knock you off your feet with its stunning natural beauty. It is located in the heart of Westland Tai Poutini National Park and the Fox River and nearby forests add to the uniqueness of this beautiful area.

Tasman Glacier

Haupapa aka Tasman Glacier is the largest one of all the glaciers in New Zealand, and it’s one of the main attractions of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Glaciers actually cover approximately 40% of this national park, so there are quite a few you can explore during your visit after checking out Tasman.