Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere)

One of the few glaciers in the world that descends almost into temperate rainforest. It has retreated a long way in recent decades, so the walks up the glacier valley now end at viewpoints well back from the ice. The Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere walk takes about 1.5 hours return, and the shorter Sentinel Rock walk gives a good view.

To stand on the ice, take a heli-hike, where a helicopter lands you on the glacier for a guided walk, or a scenic flight with a snow landing (weather permitting). In Franz Josef village, the Glacier Hot Pools are a good way to end the day. The West Coast weather is changeable, so if it's fine, go up immediately.