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Is it Worth to Visit Franz Josef Town?

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Is it Worth to Visit Franz Josef Town?

Franz Josef Town is a small village that lies in the West Coast of South Island, New Zealand. The town is named after the Franz Josef Glacier, a popular tourist attraction in the region. If you are planning to visit New Zealand, Franz Josef Town should be on your itinerary. In this blog post, we discuss why it’s worth a visit to Franz Josef Town and what visitors can expect to experience.

Natural Beauty

One of the primary reasons to visit Franz Josef Town is to see the Franz Josef Glacier. The glacier is 12 kilometers long and is categorized as a “temperate maritime glacier.” Visitors can take a helicopter tour to see the glacier from above, or they can take a guided hike to see it up close. The glaciers offer stunning and awe-inspiring views that leave visitors in awe.Aside from the Franz Josef Glacier, visitors can also explore the surrounding mountain ranges and the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The park is known for its unique natural wonders, such as Mount Cook, and the Tasman Glacier lake.

Outdoor Activities

Franz Josef town isn’t just for sightseeing – it also offers outdoor activities for adrenaline junkies. Visitors can go hiking, kayaking, skiing, or take a helicopter ride to explore the surrounding natural beauty. Some popular hiking trails include Roberts Point, Douglas Walk, and Alex Knob.In addition to hiking, visitors can also take a guided kayaking tour in the Okarito Lagoon or fish in the Waiho River. For skiing enthusiasts, the Fox Glacier Ski Area is only a 30-minute drive from the town.

Culture and Heritage

Franz Josef Town isn’t only about the natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can also learn about the local Māori culture and heritage by visiting several museums in the area, including the Hokitika Museum and the West Coast Historical Museum. The Hokitika Museum has exhibits dedicated to gold mining, pounamu (a form of jade sculpture), photography, and textiles, while the West Coast Historical Museum showcases the history of the West Coast region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Franz Josef Town is undoubtedly worth a visit for anyone traveling to the South Island of New Zealand. The town is a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and culture, which makes it an ideal destination for a wide range of travelers. With its stunning glacier and scenic views, Franz Josef Town promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.

The Insider’s Guide to Franz Josef Town in New Zealand

Franz Josef is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. This town is famous for being home to the Franz Josef Glacier, named after the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I. It is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Here’s a detailed guide on what to see and do in Franz Josef Town.

Local Attractions

The primary attraction in Franz Josef is undoubtedly the Franz Josef Glacier, a 12km long glacier that sits in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. It is a breathtaking sight to behold and is best experienced through guided tours. You can choose from helicopter tours, glacier hikes, and ice climbing. These tours are quite popular, and it’s best to book them in advance.

Another must-visit attraction in Franz Josef is the West Coast Wildlife Centre. This center provides a unique opportunity to see the rarest kiwi bird in the world, the Rowi Kiwi, up close. You can also learn about New Zealand’s other native birds and animals, which are in danger of extinction.

Dining Spots

Franz Josef town has a range of excellent cafes and restaurants that cater to all tastes. For a hearty breakfast, stop by Full of Beans, which serves delicious coffee and a variety of breakfast foods. For lunch, head to The Landing for their famous wood-fired pizza, gourmet burgers, and nachos. And for dinner, enjoy the best of classic New Zealand cuisine at Alice May Restaurant.

Cultural Experiences

To experience the local culture, visit the Glacier Country Museum. This museum tells the story of the Franz Josef Glacier through exhibits, displays, and artifacts. You’ll also learn about the local Maori culture and the history of the town.

Another cultural experience worth trying is the Maori Haka Tour. This tour allows you to witness a traditional Maori welcome ceremony, learn about the history and significance of the Haka dance, and even try your hand at performing it.

Local History

Franz Josef Town has a rich history, and one of the best ways to learn about it is through a visit to the historic Graham’s General Store. This store has been run by the same family for the last 90 years and offers a unique look into the town’s past. You can also buy souvenirs from the store.

Another must-visit spot for history buffs is the Okarito Museum. This museum showcases the history of the gold-rush era in New Zealand and provides information on the local flora and fauna. The Okarito Lagoon, which is home to a wide range of birdlife, is also located nearby.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

Apart from the usual attractions, you can also explore some lesser-known spots in Franz Josef town. One of these is the Roberts Point Track, a 10km hike that leads to the top of a mountain with excellent views of the glacier. It’s perfect for those who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy the wilderness.

Another spot worth exploring is the Tatare Tunnels Walkway. This walkway takes you through a forest to the abandoned gold mining tunnels that were once used by the Chinese miners during the gold rush. The walk is relatively easy and takes around an hour to complete.

In conclusion, Franz Josef Town is a destination that offers a unique mix of nature, adventure, and culture. Make sure to add it to your bucket list and take your time to explore all that it has to offer.

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Is it Worth to Visit Franz Josef Town?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!