Experience the ultimate road trip in New Zealand with a drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef! Witness stunning landscapes and breathtaking views on this unforgettable journey.
Wanaka to Lake Hawea with The Neck scenic viewing point
The journey from Wanaka to Lake Hawea is a breathtaking experience.
Lake Hawea Outlook
One must-stop viewpoint is the Lake Hawea outlook.
On a clear day, the view is stunning. There’s a car park here, making it easy to stop and take photos. You can also enjoy some fly fishing or lake fishing.
The Neck
Continue to The Neck, another must-see viewpoint.
This small car park offers more incredible views and information about Lake Wanaka. Be mindful of traffic as you stop to enjoy the sights.
Mou Waho Island trip on Lake Wanaka
For a unique adventure, consider a trip to Mou Waho Island on Lake Wanaka.
Getting There
Take a water taxi from Wanaka to reach the island. The ride takes about 40 minutes.
Exploring the Island
On the island, you’ll find a lake within the island, which is in a lake – Lake Wanaka.
This protected area is accessible only by boat, making it a special side trip for nature lovers.
For more details, check out the Mou Waho Island Tour video.
Siberia Experience tour from Makarora village
The Siberia Experience is a must-do wilderness trip from Makarora village.
What to Expect for drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef
This special trip has been around for over 20 years.
Fly into the Siberia Valley, walk down the Wilkins River, and take a jetboat ride back to Makarora village.
Planning Your Trip
The trip takes about half a day and can be done on the way to Franz Josef or from Wanaka.
Makarora village has basic amenities like a campground, café, and public toilets.
For more information, visit the Siberia Experience official website.
Walking the Blue Pools Track to the Makarora River
The Blue Pools Track is a popular stop for travelers.
Track Details
The well-defined track takes about 20 minutes one way.
You’ll walk to the Makarora River, where a side river flows into the main river, creating stunning blue pools.
Checking Track Conditions
Track conditions can change, so check the Department of Conservation’s website for updates.
Visit the Great Walks: Tracks and walks page for more information.
Additional Tips
The track is suitable for families and children. Nearby, the Cameron Flats campground is a good spot for motorhome travelers.
Walks around the Haast Pass summit and Gates of Haast Bridge
Exploring the Haast Pass area offers numerous short walks and stunning viewpoints.
Fantail Falls
Fantail Falls is a must-visit spot, especially after heavy rain. The falls become very forceful and impressive.
It’s a short walk from the car park, making it easily accessible.
Gates of Haast Bridge along the drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef
The Gates of Haast Bridge is another key highlight. Be aware of the one-way bridge system, which requires traffic to take turns crossing.
After crossing the bridge, you’ll enter the stunning Haast River Valley with several viewpoints worth stopping at.
Village of Haast on the West Coast with Haast River Safari tour
The village of Haast offers essential amenities and unique adventure tours.
Village Amenities
In Haast, you’ll find a petrol station, an information center, a café, and accommodation options. It’s a great spot to refuel and rest.
Waiatoto River Safari
For an unforgettable experience, try the Waiatoto River Safari. This jet boat tour takes you deep into the wilderness, showcasing the area’s natural beauty.
The family-run business offers a unique adventure compared to the more commercial jet boating experiences in Queenstown or Wanaka.
Forest and beach walk at Ship Creek. Monro Beach Walk near Lake Moeraki
Ship Creek and Monro Beach offer picturesque walks through diverse landscapes.
Ship Creek Walk
Ship Creek features a lovely boardwalk that leads to the Tasman Sea. The area is perfect for a sunset walk.
The boardwalk also passes through a lagoon, adding to the scenic beauty.
Knights Point
Another popular stop is Knights Point, known for its stunning views. Be prepared for busier crowds.
Wilderness Lodge Lake Moeraki
Located near Lake Moeraki, the Wilderness Lodge offers luxurious accommodation and guided nature walks.
Visitors can explore the nearby penguin colony and enjoy other wildlife experiences.
Monro Beach Walk
The Monro Beach Walk is a hidden gem. The trail leads through lush bush to a stunning beach, home to penguins, seals, and sometimes sea lions.
It’s a relatively easy walk and less crowded, making it a serene experience.
Fox Glacier Village, Lake Matheson Walk, Gillespie Beach Walk
Fox Glacier Village is a hub for exploring glaciers, mirror lakes, and remote beaches.
Fox Glacier Village on the drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef
With a small population, Fox Glacier Village offers essential amenities and a range of accommodation options.
Lake Matheson Walk
The Lake Matheson Walk is a must-do. This mirror lake reflects New Zealand’s highest peaks, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, on clear days.
The walk takes about an hour and is best done in the early morning or evening for the calmest water.
Gillespies Beach Walk
Gillespies Beach is a hidden treasure, located about 25 kilometers from Fox Glacier Village. The gravel road leads to a remote beach with an old miners tunnel and a scenic reserve.
It’s a unique, off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for those with extra time. Note that there’s no mobile phone reception here.
For those planning a visit to this region, it’s recommended to spend at least two nights in Fox Glacier or Franz Josef to fully appreciate the area.
Fox and Franz Josef glaciers with Heli-hiking Glacier tours
Exploring the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers is an adventure you won’t forget.
Heli-hiking Tours
Heli-hiking is the most popular way to explore these glaciers. It’s the only way to get onto the ice now. The short five-minute flight takes you to the glacier, where you hike for about two hours with a local guide.
These tours are a highlight for many visitors. You can book heli-hiking tours from either Fox Glacier or Franz Josef.
Weather Considerations
Weather in this area can change rapidly. It’s essential to pre-book your tour and be prepared for possible cancellations. If you have extra time, it’s worth waiting for a clear day.
Glacier Valley Walks
If you’re not into helicopter rides, walking into the Glacier Valley is another option. There are several smaller bush walks and viewpoint walks in the Fox Glacier Valley.
Despite the short distance between Fox Glacier and Franz Josef, the zig-zag drive takes about 30 minutes. Both villages offer unique experiences and are worth exploring.
Franz Josef village with West Coast Wildlife Centre and other things to do
Franz Josef village is slightly larger than Fox Glacier, with more amenities and activities.
West Coast Wildlife Centre
One of the main attractions in Franz Josef is the West Coast Wildlife Centre. Here, you can see Kiwi birds and learn about their breeding program. It’s an excellent activity, especially on a rainy day.
Other Activities
Besides glacier activities, Franz Josef offers kayaking, fishing, and quad biking. Franz Josef Wilderness Tours provides various outdoor adventures just outside the village.
Hiking Trails
Franz Josef has several hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging Alpine hikes. The Alex Knob Walk is a popular choice for those with good fitness levels. It offers stunning views on clear days.
For a more relaxed experience, there are smaller walks with equally breathtaking scenery.
Okarito Lagoon kayaking tours and scenic walks
Okarito Lagoon is a hidden gem located about a half-hour drive from Franz Josef.
Kayaking Tours
This tranquil lagoon is perfect for a kayaking trip. Okarito Kayaks offers guided tours and rentals, allowing you to explore New Zealand’s largest unmodified coastal wetland.
White Herons and Wildlife
Okarito Lagoon is home to White Herons and other wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The small village offers limited accommodation, adding to its remote charm.
Scenic Walks
Besides kayaking, there are several scenic walks around Okarito. These trails offer a peaceful way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
If you’re staying in Franz Josef, a trip to Okarito Lagoon is highly recommended for a unique and serene experience.
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