Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier flows down from the Southern Alps towards the lowland rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, on New Zealand's wild West Coast. The glacier has retreated a long way in recent decades, so the best way to stand on the ice is a helicopter flight with a guided walk on top.

Scenic flights land on the snowfields high above, and some combine Franz Josef with neighbouring Fox Glacier and views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. If you prefer to stay on the ground, a walk up the river valley leads to a viewpoint looking towards the glacier's face.

Flights depend on the weather, so we leave a spare morning in your plan. The West Coast is one of the wettest parts of the country; bring a rain jacket and insect repellent for the sandflies.