West Coast and the Glaciers

Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Located on the edge of Westland World Heritage Park, and a short walk from one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural phenomenons, the Scenic Franz Josef is the perfect place from which to explore this beautiful part of the country.

The 177 rooms and suites are split between two wings, the Douglas and Graham wings, and are simple, bright and spacious. Some come with private balconies. Start your day right with a hearty breakfast at the Canavans Restaurant, then return in the evening for delicious local fare, served alongside New Zealand’s world-famous wine.

After a day on the ice, there are few better places to rest your feet than the Moa Bar. Named after the twin Moa statues that are an iconic feature of the property, you can grab a drink and relax in front of the fire or out on the balcony when the warmer weather arrives.

Guests will also enjoy use of the spa at nearby Te Waonui Forest Retreat, which is just a few minutes’ walk away.

Highlights

Glacier hikes

Helicopter rides

177 rooms and suites

Restaurant

Bar

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Places to combine Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier with

West Coast and the Glaciers

Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka

Distinction Hotel Fox Glacier Te Weheka is located in the Fox Glacier Village, just a short walk from the main street. Nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps you are ideally located to explore the glacier itself, which drains the western slopes of the Alps.

The hotel features just 20 rooms, each with their own balcony and living area. There is also a communal lounge with a fireplace and a selection of books for guests to enjoy, as well as a bright dining rooms for breakfast each morning.

West Coast and the Glaciers

Rimu Lodge

Located on New Zealand’s west coast, Rimu Lodge is a boutique property just ten minutes from Hokitika.

There are just four rooms, offering wonderful views of the river and mountains. Facing north east means you enjoy the sunrise, the large windows filling the rooms with natural light. Enjoy your breakfast as you look out over the breathtaking views of the West Coast’s Hokitika River and alpine peaks beyond.

This area is one big outdoor playground, with walking, fishing, cycling and golf all on your doorstep. Slightly further afield are the Franz Josef and Fox glacier and the Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks).

West Coast and the Glaciers

Birds Ferry Lodge

Spread over 20 hectares, Birds Ferry Lodge overlooks native forest in the valley below and the Tasman Sea beyond.

There is a spacious guest lounge complete with a roaring fire and huge windows where you can take in the view out to the ocean and the Totara Valley. There are two comfortable and traditional rooms, both offering excellent views.

There is plenty to do here, from exploring the Northern West Coast Region and the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, to coastal hikes and cycle rides.

West Coast and the Glaciers

Teichelmann’s Bed and Breakfast

This family-run in the historic gold rush district is in the heart of Hokitika’s historic gold rush district, opposite the Hokitika Museum and a few short steps to cafes, restaurants, galleries and the beach.

The building itself was built in 1910 as a home for Dr Ebenezer Teichelmann, a renowned mountaineer, photographer and conservationist. There are three bright rooms in the main house, all with en suite bathrooms, and a studio cottage with it’s own private fern garden.

Hot breakfast is served in a lounge and dining rooms, an area decorated with local heritage artefacts, which is also where free port and sherry is offered in the evening.