There is about 200,000 ha of public conservation land within this area that includes part of Westland National Park, many small reserves and large areas of stewardship land.
Due to high visitor numbers there is no hunting in the Franz Josef Glacier Valley below the 500 mabove sea level contour and up to 800 m above sea level for the final 1000 m of Roberts Point track.
The area is extensively forested with several large river valleys, alpine headwaters and lowland forested areas in the west. A few valleys have maintained walking track access and there are some backcountry huts but many places do not have tracks, footbridges or huts.
Franz Josef is one and a half hours drive south of Hokitika. State Highway 6 traverses the area from the Waitaha River south to the Weheka Hills.
Climate
The climate is wet at times with over 3000 mm of rain each year and westerly winds predominating. In winter several falls of snow can be expected that will blanket the tops and upper forested slopes. Spring to autumn is mild with regular spells of fine weather.
No hunting in Franz Josef valley 20 December to 31 January and between Good Friday and Easter Monday.
| Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 3 752 0360 |
| westlandnpvc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 69 Cron Street Franz Josef Glacier 7856 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |