New Zealand is certainly not an inexpensive destination. The plane ticket itself can set you back a thousand bucks. Then there’s accommodations, food, on-island transportation and, of course, excursions. In order to extend travel as long as possible, many visitors budget themselves, pinching pennies whenever possible, to ensure they see everything the islands have to offer. I, without a doubt, fall into that category, cutting corners and gravitating toward a city’s free activities first.
And yet, I found myself shelling out close to $1,200 in ten hours while visiting Franz Josef. Of course the town boasts exceptional hikes at no cost to participants. You could spend your days eating tasty food, drinking delicious coffee and simply wandering, taking in the sights of the West Coat. But you will certainly miss out on all that Franz Josef has to offer. I truly believe, as my bank statement can attest, that, of all New Zealand’s towns, Franz Josef is the place to throw your frugal tendencies out the window. In fact, I’d save up throughout your visit so that you can spend it all here! Trust me, it is worth every penny.
Heli-Hike or Heli-Climb
For those looking to combine scenery with exercise, look no further than Franz Josef Glacier Guides’ heli-excursions. Walking out to a landing pad, you and a handful of others hop onto a helicopter. Within seconds the ground on which you just stood dissipates and your eyes pan upward, catching sight of the valley down which a wall of ice clings. Moving closer and closer, the glacier’s deep crevasses appear below, hundreds of blue veins coating the snow. Touching down on top of this sheet you begrudgingly vacate the helicopter but soon find yourself amidst tours of ice. With crampons strapped to your boots and poles in hand, you navigate a pre-planned path, through caves and cracks whose walls stand tens of feet high. Electing the more expensive climb, you’ll learn to ascend these steep sides, engaging muscles you didn’t know existed as you pull yourself skyward. Otherwise wind throughout the glacier, pausing for brief geology or history lessons. With a temperate rainforest on either side and miles of pristine beach below, your hours on Franz Josef, exploring the glacier’s natural formations, will feel like a fairytale and cost you $479 and $575 respectively.
Scenic Helicopter Flight
Itching for more views and less exertion? Consider one of many scenic flights. Hopping onto the chopper, you’ll quickly find yourself soaring above the expansive Franz Josef Glacier. You’ll follow the ice floe, nestled between steep mountainsides, snaking upward as it travels down. Rounding a corner, a second expanse of snow comes into view. Larger and less visited than its counterpart, Fox Glacier spreads below. With towering mountain peaks sitting just above it’s as though this tongue of ice emanates from the rocks themselves. Continuing to gain elevation, the entire range comes into view, including Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Sights seen on a flight depend on multiple factors, including duration, weather and company. Air Safaris and Glacier Helicopters are two reliable operators in town.
ATV/Quad Biking
Adventure seekers preferring to stay firmly on the ground have the option of quad biking (known also as ATV-ing). Stepping into wet weather gear (provided by the company), you quickly become a part of the terrain previously seen from above, literally immersing yourself in it. Glacial water splashes on all sides as you speed through a river fed by Franz Josef. Greyish rocks spread across the basin, periodically jolting you when directly hit. Amidst the rainforest, walled in by trees, you’ll navigate a more narrow path, fighting to turn as the path does. Drivers will pay $160 whereas a passenger only $70 . Across Country Quad Bikes offers packages too, which might cut down on overall costs.
Skydive Franz or Skydive Fox
The ultimate adrenaline rush and, because it is New Zealand, you have two options. Sitting aboard what feels like the smallest plane imaginable, on the lap of a complete stranger, your heart rate increases with each foot of elevation gained. Asking questions and filming with a handheld GoPro, the guide does his best to distract from the impending jump. The air temperature turns from humid, to crisp to downright cold. Below, Mount Cook stands amidst tens of other mountain peaks. Green farmland spreads from ocean to mountains’ edge. Given the signal, the door opens and you find yourself inching across the floor. Before you can process much more, your out, falling toward earth, adrenaline coursing through your body as your eyes, initially shut, open to the expansive landscape. Whether you choose SkyDive Franz or Fox, the sensations are identical. It just depends on how far you want to fall!
Kiwi Encounter
The bird. Not the fruit. Despite its presence on postcards, clothing, and currency, New Zealand’s national bird proves nearly impossible to spot in nature. Whether purchasing a Behind-the-Scenes pass or simply an entrance ticket, you find yourself wandering a natural boardwalk, surrounded by growth in which these kiwi live. As the largest breeding facility in the country, visitors learn about the program and get the opportunity to view the newest chicks. Prepare to spend anywhere from $20 to $185, depending on your age and the package selected.
Hot Pools
Regardless of excursion, end your day at the local hot pools. Nestled within a rainforest, three large pools of varying temperatures (from 36 – 40 degrees centigrade), sit awaiting your arrival. Large sails spread above your head, offering respite from the elements, making a soak enjoyable rain or shine. Book a private pool for $99 or soak amongst your fellow travelers for $28.
Of course Queenstown, as the adrenaline capital of the world, has its fair share of pricey activities from multiple bungee jumps, to canyon swinging and canyoning. But the variety and uniqueness of Franz’ offerings make it, in my opinion, the place to splurge. So, set aside multiple days, take a deep breath, and open up that wallet. The memories will last far longer than any fiscal anxiety!
*If you’re looking to offset these expenses with something free, consider one of the many hikes available in the Franz Josef area. A shuttle offers transportation into the glacial valley for a small fee but, if you factor in extra time, the start to many trails can also be reached on foot.
*Exploring all of the South Island? Check out these must-do activities in Kaikoura too!
