Westland National Park, officially known as Westland Tai Poutini National Park, is one of New Zealand's most remarkable natural areas. It lies on the west coast of the South Island, where the snow-covered Southern Alps meet glaciers, dense temperate rainforests, mountain rivers, lakes and wild beaches along the Tasman Sea. Established in 1960, the park forms part of the Te Wāhipounamu South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Area.
Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
The park's main attractions are Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, which descend from the Southern Alps into valleys surrounded by forest. This unusual combination of ice and lush vegetation creates a striking landscape. Glaciers continually change in response to temperature, precipitation and ice movement, so their dimensions and the accessibility of individual areas can vary considerably from year to year.
Walking tracks lead to viewpoints near the glaciers, offering views of glacial valleys, rocky riverbeds and steep mountain slopes. Visitors who want to get closer to the ice can join an organised excursion with qualified guides. Walking onto a glacier independently or crossing safety barriers is dangerous because of ice falls, rockfalls and sudden weather changes.
Lake Matheson and mountain scenery
Near the village of Fox Glacier lies Lake Matheson, famous for reflections of the Southern Alps in its calm water. On clear days, the lake can reflect Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The scenery is particularly beautiful early in the morning and later in the day, when the wind often eases and the light becomes softer.
A walking track circles the lake through native forest and leads to several viewpoints. It is an excellent option for travellers who want to enjoy mountain scenery without undertaking a demanding climb. Other natural features in the surrounding region include glacial lakes, waterfalls, fast-flowing rivers and wetlands.
Rainforests and wildlife
Westland contains a remarkable variety of natural environments. The lowlands support wet forests with tree ferns and native trees, while higher slopes transition into alpine grasslands and rocky terrain. Near the coast, lagoons and wetlands provide important habitats for many bird species.
The region is particularly important for rare New Zealand wildlife. The endangered rowi kiwi lives in local forests, while coastal wetlands provide habitat for the kōtuku, or white heron, and other waterbirds. The kea, a distinctive mountain parrot, can be found in alpine areas. Wildlife should be observed from a respectful distance without feeding animals or disturbing their habitat.
Walking tracks and outdoor adventures
The national park offers walks of varying difficulty, from short excursions to viewpoints to multi-day trips into remote mountain country. Experienced hikers can explore the Copland Track, which passes through valleys and forests towards the Welcome Flat hot pools. Such journeys require good fitness, suitable equipment and careful preparation.
Other activities include kayaking on lakes and lagoons, birdwatching, cycling on permitted routes and scenic flights over the glaciers. The villages of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier offer visitor centres, cafés, accommodation and companies organising guided excursions. Before visiting the glaciers, check current access conditions and weather information.
How to reach the national park
The park lies along State Highway 6 on the west coast of the South Island. Visitors can reach the region by car or bus from Hokitika in the north or from Haast in the south. The settlements of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier are the main bases for exploring the glaciers and surrounding natural attractions.
Weather on the West Coast is changeable, and heavy rain can affect roads, rivers and walking tracks. Before travelling, check the forecast, current warnings and track information provided by New Zealand's Department of Conservation. Westland National Park is an excellent destination for travellers interested in glaciers, ancient forests and the remarkable natural diversity of New Zealand.
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