West Coast, New Zealand

South Island's West Coast strings Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers (the only glaciers in temperate rainforest reaching close to sea level), the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki, and the Heaphy Track's coastal forest walking.

Highlights

When to Visit

Dec-Feb

New Zealand summer with West Coast helicopter landings on Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers at peak operations, Heaphy Track Great Walk fully open.

Sep-Nov

Spring shoulder with West Coast Wildfoods Festival in early March aside, the rains easing slightly and the glacier access roads accessible without winter ice.

Mar-May

Autumn shoulder with West Coast Wildfoods Festival in mid-March, glacier helicopter flights running reliably, and Heaphy track closing for winter season.

Jun-Aug

West Coast winter with rains heavy (the West Coast averages 5-6m yearly), but Franz Josef Glacier accessible by guided ice walks and helicopter flights weather permitting.