During your visit to the Franz Josef Glacier, embark on a scenic cruise along Lake Mapourika! We'll explore a temperate rainforest and discover unique wildlife on this unforgettable West Coast adventure.
Activity Details
On the day of our adventure, we meet at 30 Main Road in Franz Josef. There we'll travel to our launch point and board our vessel for a scenic journey across Lake Mapourika, located in the breathtaking Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
As we sail over the calm waters of Lake Mapourika, you'll be treated to views of spectacular wilderness landscapes, complete with lush rainforests and a variety of native bird species. The boat offers both covered cabins for comfort on colder days and outdoor viewing platforms for an up-close look at the stunning surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our route will take us through the Okatarito Kiwi Sanctuary, home to New Zealand’s rare and famous kiwi bird. As we navigate the pristine lake, we’ll keep an eye out for these beloved native birds.
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable local guide will provide fascinating commentary on the unique ecosystems that give this area its World Heritage status—including the only temperate rainforest within a glacial environment. You’ll learn all about the diverse flora and fauna that make Westland so unique.
As we slowly make our way back to the dock, take in the tranquility of this untouched environment, listening for the calls of native birds and other local wildlife.
After 2 hours immersed in nature, we’ll bring our tour to a close back at the starting point.
Hiking Route
Upgrade your experience to include a 1.5 nature walk into this unique rainforest!
After the cruise, we’ll embark on a thrilling rainforest hike that takes you back in time to the Jurassic period. As we stroll through this ancient landscape, keep your eyes peeled for various bird species and the unique local flora and fauna that thrive in this ecosystem.
If we’re extra lucky, our guide will introduce us to some edible plant species we may encounter along the way, giving you a taste of the region's natural bounty. We might also have the chance to take home flax flowers as the perfect souvenir to remember your adventure!
Finally, after a total of 2.5 hours, we'll conclude this experience at the meeting point.