Franz Josef to Greymouth via Hokitika Gorge small-group (one-way)
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Travel north along the wild West Coast from Franz Josef to Greymouth on this small group, fully guided one-way tour. Discover historic towns, pristine lakes, and striking coastal scenery as you journey through one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.
With passionate local guides, comfortable transport, and plenty of photo stops, this is more than a transfer - it’s an unforgettable West Coast experience.
Available options
Franz Josef to Greymouth via Hokitika Gorge small-group (one-way)
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water & snacks
Hotel pickup in Franz Josef
Hokitika - including the option to visit the Hokitika Gorge
Fully guided small group tour
luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Detailed itinerary
1
Depart Franz Josef, known in Te Reo Māori as Kā Roimata o Hinehukatere, and head north along State Highway 6. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the region’s glacial history and unique ecology.
2
Pause for photos at the serene Lake Ianthe, surrounded by podocarp forest and wetlands that shelter endangered native birds.
3
Arrive in the “Cool Little Town” of Hokitika. Wander the driftwood-strewn beach, explore boutique shops, or enjoy a coffee before rejoining the group.
4
Take an optional short walk to the breathtaking Hokitika Gorge, where vivid turquoise waters cut through ancient granite cliffs beneath lush native forest. This is one of the West Coast’s most photographed natural wonders.
5
Continue north to Greymouth, or Māwhera, the largest town on the West Coast. Once a booming gold rush hub, today it’s a vibrant community framed by wild beaches, the Grey River, and rugged mountain ranges. Your guide will drop you at the information centre, where your West Coast journey continues.
What's not included
Accommodation
You can hire child seats, or you can provide your own
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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4★
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3★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
The tour duration includes travel time between attractions
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress accordingly
Important notes
• Pick-ups start 30 mins before the tour time. Please check your pickup time to ensure you do not miss your pickup. We are unable to wait for late guests. No refunds given for no show passengers.
• You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel signwriting on it.
About Franz Josef & Fox Glacier
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are two of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, offering stunning natural beauty and a range of adventure activities. These glaciers are unique for their proximity to the Tasman Sea, creating a dramatic landscape where tropical rainforest meets ice fields.
Top Attractions
Franz Josef Glacier
One of New Zealand's most accessible glaciers, offering stunning views and a range of adventure activities.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on the activity)
Fox Glacier
Another of New Zealand's famous glaciers, offering similar activities to Franz Josef but with fewer crowds.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on the activity)
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Natural hot pools fed by glacial water, offering a relaxing experience after a day of adventure.
Relaxation
1-2 hours
Moderate
Lake Matheson
A picturesque lake known for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Nature
1-2 hours for a walk, longer for photography
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb toffee pieces.
Dessert
Contains dairy and sugar
Fresh Seafood
The West Coast is known for its fresh seafood, including fish, crayfish, and oysters.
Lunch/Dinner
Varies by dish, may contain allergens
Lamb Rack
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its quality and flavor, often served as a rack with herbs and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Guided glacier hikes
Helicopter tours
Kayaking
Hiking
Mountain biking
Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
Scenic walks
Beachcombing
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer offers the warmest weather and the most daylight hours, making it ideal for hiking, glacier tours, and other outdoor activities. The crowds are at their highest during this period.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time, NZDT during daylight saving)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are generally safe destinations, but visitors should be aware of the natural hazards associated with outdoor activities, such as glacier hikes and scenic flights.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of weather conditions and changing weather patterns
- • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities
- • Stay on marked trails and paths
Getting there
By air
- Christchurch International Airport • 250 km (155 miles) from Franz Josef
By bus
Christchurch, Greymouth, Wanaka
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary form of public transport in the area, with regular services to and from major cities.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No major app-based services
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Franz Josef Township
Fox Glacier Township
Day trips
Lake Matheson
25 km (15 miles) from Franz Josef • Half-day
A scenic lake known for its reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the surrounding Southern Alps.
Okarito Lagoon
50 km (31 miles) from Franz Josef • Full-day
A unique coastal lagoon known for its birdlife, including the rare kotuku (white heron).
Gillespies Beach
30 km (18 miles) from Fox Glacier • Half-day to full-day
A secluded beach with dramatic coastal scenery and access to the rainforest.
Festivals
West Coast Wildfoods Festival • Annually in March
Pro tips
- Visit Lake Matheson early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook
- Book glacier tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Dress in layers for changing weather conditions, and always be prepared for rain
- Explore both Franz Josef and Fox Glacier to experience the best of both towns and their respective glaciers
- Try local specialties like Hokey Pokey ice cream and fresh seafood
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
