Travelling to Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is located on the West Coast of of the South Island in New Zealand. We have compiled various different travel options to suit all types of travellers including options to guarantee a wonderful scenic trip.

Find below a few handy tips for travelling to Te Waonui Forest Retreat.

Travelling from Christchurch

Collect rental car from airport and drive from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Rent a car from Avis, Budget, Europcar, Ezi Car Rental, Hertz, Thrifty. Drive time 4 hours 30 mins (374km)

Take the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch through to Greymouth then take the connecting InterCity bus from Greymouth to Franz Josef Glacier. Check with providers for travel time.

Take the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth then collect hire car at the train station. Rent a car from Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, Apex. Drive time from Greymouth is 2 hours 15 mins (173km)

Fly with Air New Zealand from Christchurch to Hokitika then board the InterCity bus (you will need to make your way to the town Travel Centre to catch the bus) Flying time is 40 mins and drive time from Hokitika is 2 hours (136km)

Air New Zealand from Christchurch to Hokitika and collect hire car. Rent a car from Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty. Flying time is 40 mins and drive time from Hokitika is 2 hours (136km)

Travelling from Queenstown

Collect rental car from airport and drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef. Rent a car from Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Apex, Go Rentals. Drive time from Queenstown is 4 hours 30 mins (345km)

Take the InterCity bus from Queenstown airport. There may be other pick up locations available, check when booking. Check with provider for drive time (345km)