Family-Friendly Adventures in Franz Josef!

West Coast Wildlife Centre

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary: A Day at the West Coast Wildlife Centre

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, located in the heart of Franz Josef village. It"s easy to find, being a major attraction in the area. Parking is available on-site, though arriving early is advisable as it can get busy, especially during the summer months.

10:00 AM - Kiwi Encounter

Kick off your visit with the Kiwi Encounter, where you can see the rare Rowi and Haast Tokoeka kiwis. These species are part of a crucial breeding program. Learn about the efforts to save New Zealand"s iconic birds from extinction. It"s a unique chance to see kiwi in a nocturnal setting, as they"re typically shy and nocturnal.

11:00 AM - Glacier & Backcountry Encounter

Next, explore the Glacier & Backcountry Encounter, an interactive area that educates visitors on the local glaciers and the unique landscapes of the West Coast. Kids will love the touch screens and life-sized models!

Lunch Break

Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafes within walking or short driving distance from the centre. Try the Full of Beans Café for some hearty eats, or pack your own and picnic outdoors if the weather is nice.

1:00 PM - Tuatara Encounter

After lunch, head back for the Tuatara Encounter. Witness the ancient tuatara, a reptile species that has been around since the time of the dinosaurs. This is a fantastic educational opportunity for kids to learn about evolutionary history and reptilian biology.

2:00 PM - Interactive Exhibits and Conservation Talks

Spend the afternoon exploring various interactive exhibits around the centre. Don’t miss the conservation talks typically held in the afternoons. These talks are engaging and provide deeper insights into New Zealand’s wildlife and conservation efforts.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by browsing through the gift shop, where you can find souvenirs that help support the centre"s conservation work. Depart at your leisure, perhaps around 4:00 PM, leaving enough time for a relaxing evening reflecting on a memorable family day out.

Enjoy your visit to the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where learning about conservation and wildlife is intertwined with fun and excitement!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools

Why Visit?

Day 1: Journey to Franz Josef Glacier

Morning

- Begin your adventure early by driving or taking a coach to the quaint village of Franz Josef, nestled in the heart of the West Coast of New Zealand"s South Island. This scenic drive is renowned for its breathtaking views of rainforests and coastal scenes. If driving from Christchurch, it’s a picturesque 5-hour drive through Arthur’s Pass.

Afternoon

- Check into one of the family-friendly hotels or motels in the village. I recommend the Alpine Glacier Motel for its cozy amenities and proximity to local attractions.

- Once settled, take a short walk to the West Coast Wildlife Centre. It"s a great spot for kids to learn about local wildlife, including the rare Rowi and Haast Tokoeka kiwis in a safe, indoor setting.

Evening

- Cap your day with a soothing soak at the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools. Nestled in lush rainforest, the pools offer a magical setting with temperatures ranging from 36°C to 40°C. Opt for a private pool experience which is perfect for families wanting to enjoy their own space.

Day 2: Exploring Franz Josef Glacier

Morning

- After breakfast, prepare for a guided Glacier Valley Walk. Experienced guides will lead your family along the beautiful Waiho River bed, teaching about the glacier’s history and remarkable geology. Remember, the glacier is dynamic and ever-changing, which makes each visit unique.

Afternoon

- Enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local cafes, such as King Tiger Eastern Eating House & Bar, offering dishes that appeal to all ages.

- Post lunch, consider a scenic helicopter ride. It’s a thrilling way to see the glacier and Southern Alps from a different perspective. This is particularly exciting for kids, offering them an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the ice formations.

Evening

- Return to the village for dinner. Full of Day 2"s experiences, a family dinner at Snake Bite Brewery can provide a casual yet satisfying conclusion with its fusion of Asian and Kiwi flavors.

This itinerary combines relaxation with adventure, making Franz Josef Glacier a memorable stop on your family’s New Zealand journey!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Franz Josef Glacier

Why Visit?

Exploring the stunning Franz Josef Glacier promises an unforgettable family adventure in New Zealand"s South Island. Here’s a perfectly tailored itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Arrival & Glacier Valley Walk

- Morning: Drive or fly into Franz Josef town. It"s accessible by road from Queenstown (around 8 hours) or a quicker flight from Christchurch.

- Afternoon: Start with the Glacier Valley Walk, an easy, family-friendly track that leads you through a beautiful valley right up to the viewing area near the glacier"s face. Along the way, marvel at the sheer rock cliffs and learn from the informative panels about the glacier"s retreat and the forming valley ecosystem.

Day 2: Helicopter Ride & Hot Pools

- Morning: Book a helicopter tour with Franz Josef Glacier Guides. This thrilling ride offers a unique aerial view of the glacier and includes a snow landing, where you can step out and play in the snow—a magical experience especially for kids.

- Afternoon: After your flight, unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools nestled in a lush rainforest. The soothing warm waters are perfect for relaxing tired muscles.

Day 3: Kiwi Wildlife Centre & Quad Biking

- Morning: Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre. It’s a great way to see the rare Rowi and Haast Tokoeka kiwis. Engaging displays teach kids about New Zealand"s efforts in conservation.

- Afternoon: Gear up for an exhilarating family quad bike tour with Across Country Quad Bikes. Explore the region’s rugged terrain and stunning landscapes.

Interesting Facts

- Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, advancing and retreating over various periods due to climatic changes.

- The area is known to Māori as Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere, stemmed from a legend of love and loss.

This itinerary blends thrilling adventures with educational experiences, ensuring memories that your family will cherish for a lifetime.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Fox Glacier

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary at Fox Glacier

Day 1: Arrival and Fox Glacier Village

- Getting There: Fly into Hokitika Airport from major New Zealand cities and hire a car for a scenic 2-hour drive south to Fox Glacier. Check into one of the cozy family lodges or motels available.

- Explore the Village: Stretch your legs with a leisurely stroll around the charming Fox Glacier Village. Visit the local information center to learn about the glacier’s history and pick up maps for your adventures.

Day 2: Fox Glacier Guided Walk

- Morning Activity: Start your day early with a guided glacier walk tailored for families. These walks are great as they cater to all fitness levels and provide children with an engaging educational experience about glaciology.

- Getting There: Most tours offer transportation from Fox Glacier Village. Gear up with provided equipment and follow your guide on a journey across stunning ice formations.

- Interesting Fact: Fox Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, advancing and retreating over the bedrock, which makes it very dynamic and interesting for all age groups.

Day 3: Lake Matheson and Minnehaha Walk

- Morning at Lake Matheson: Drive or take a shuttle 6 km from the village to Lake Matheson, renowned for its mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman. The easy walk around the lake is perfect for kids and offers breathtaking views.

- Afternoon at Minnehahah Walk: Just a short drive from Lake Matheson, the Minnehaha walk is another family-friendly trail through lush rainforest, filled with birdlife and suitable for all ages.

Day 4: Departure

- After a refreshing breakfast, take a leisurely drive back to Hokitika Airport for your flight home, filled with memories of an adventurous family trip exploring one of New Zealand"s natural wonders.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.