How is the Weather in Franz Josef Town?

Franz Josef Town, located on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Franz Josef Glacier and surrounding rainforest. As with any destination, it’s important to consider the weather before planning a trip. So, what can you expect from the weather in Franz Josef Town? Let’s take a closer look.

General Climate

Franz Josef Town has a temperate climate, meaning it has relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. However, due to its location, the weather can be quite unpredictable. The town is located in a rainfall zone, which means it can get a lot of rain at any time of year. The average annual rainfall in Franz Josef Town is around 5,400 millimeters (212 inches), making it one of the rainiest places in New Zealand.

Summer Weather

Summer in Franz Josef Town runs from December through February and is generally the warmest time of year. The average temperature during this time is around 19°C (66°F). However, it’s important to note that temperatures can vary greatly, and it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop down to around 9°C (49°F) at night. Summer is also the driest time of year in Franz Josef Town, with relatively little rainfall compared to other times of the year.

Autumn Weather

Autumn in Franz Josef Town runs from March through May and is known for its mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. During this time, the average temperature ranges from around 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F). Rainfall also begins to increase during this time, with an average of around 400 millimeters (16 inches) per month in March and up to 600 millimeters (24 inches) per month in May.

Winter Weather

Winter in Franz Josef Town runs from June through August and is known for its cool temperatures and frequent rainfall. The overall average temperature during this time is around 8°C (46°F), but temperatures can drop down to around 0°C (32°F) at night. Snowfall is relatively rare in Franz Josef Town, but it can happen from time to time, especially in the surrounding mountain ranges.

Spring Weather

Spring in Franz Josef Town runs from September through November and is known for its unpredictable weather. Temperatures begin to warm up during this time, with an average temperature of around 13°C (55°F) in November. However, rainfall can still be quite high, with an average of around 400 millimeters (16 inches) per month in September and October.

Conclusion

In summary, the weather in Franz Josef Town can be unpredictable and quite rainy throughout the year. However, temperatures are generally mild, and there are a variety of beautiful natural attractions to explore no matter what the weather. If you’re planning a trip to Franz Josef Town, it’s best to pack for all types of weather and be prepared for sudden changes. With proper planning, you can still have an amazing experience no matter what the weather brings. If you are curious about activities that Franz Josef Town has to offer, you will find a list of current tours and attractions here.

An Insider’s Guide to Franz Josef Town

Franz Josef is a small town situated on the stunning west coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, with its picturesque landscapes and amazing glaciers. The weather in Franz Josef can change abruptly, so it’s important to pack layers and be prepared for both rain and sunshine. This insider’s guide will introduce you to the many attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip to Franz Josef unforgettable.

Local Attractions

One of the main attractions in Franz Josef is undoubtedly the Franz Josef Glacier, which is one of the few glaciers in the world that descends through rainforest. You can take a scenic helicopter or hiking tour to the glacier and explore the ice caves and crevasses with an experienced guide. The nearby Fox Glacier is also worth a visit, especially if you want to explore a less-crowded glacier.

Apart from the glaciers, there are many other natural sights and activities to indulge in. The West Coast Wildlife Centre is home to conservation efforts for the rarest kiwi, the rowi, and tuatara reptiles. You can also take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps and see the Tasman Sea and stunning landscape from above.

Dining Spots

Franz Josef has plenty of dining spots to choose from, including some excellent local eateries. One of the most popular places to eat in town is SnakeBite Brewery, which serves delicious craft beer and wood-fired pizzas. The Landing Restaurant is another excellent option, with a menu that showcases local ingredients such as venison, salmon, and green-lipped mussels. For a more budget-friendly option, The Blue Ice Cafe serves tasty sandwiches, burgers and hot drinks.

Cultural Experiences

The Maori culture has a deep-rooted history in New Zealand and Franz Josef is no exception. Experience a traditional Maori Hangi, where the food is cooked slowly underground in a pit oven. You can also visit the boutique greenstone carvers and learn about the significance of different designs.

Local History

Franz Josef was named after the Emperor of Austria-Hungary in 1865, but its history goes back much further. The Maori people lived in this area for centuries, and the Franz Josef Glacier was discovered by European explorers in the late 1800s. A visit to the West Coast Historical Museum will take you back to those times, where you can learn about the gold mining and logging that took place in the area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little different, you can go on a quad bike tour or a horseback ride through the rainforest. The Lake Matheson Walk is a picturesque hike that offers stunning reflections of the Southern Alps in the lake. You can also relax after a day exploring in the Glacier Hot Pools, which offer views of the Franz Josef glacier.

Concluding Thoughts

With its stunning natural landscapes and diverse array of activities, Franz Josef is the perfect destination for anyone looking for adventure and relaxation. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring glaciers, or indulging in local cuisine, you’ll find something to love in this beautiful town. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make your trip to Franz Josef one to remember.