Plan & prepare
Getting there
Westland Tai Poutini National Park is located about halfway down the rugged West Coast of the South Island. The only road access is on State Highway Six, via Hokitika in the north (approximately one and a half hours drive) or from the south via Haast (approximately two hours drive).
The townships of Franz Josef/Waiau and Fox Glacier/Weheka are on the park boundary and offer various services including accommodation, service stations, grocery stores and souvenir shops. Ōkārito is also on the edge of the park and has several accommodation options.
The closest commercial airport is in Hokitika, which has daily flights from Christchurch. There are also regular bus services along the coast.
Safety signs, Franz Josef Glacier
Park safety
Check weather and track conditions
Westland Tai Poutini National Park lies in the path of the prevailing westerly winds, which can bring heavy rain at any time of the year, with up to five metres falling annually.
Weather conditions can change dramatically, in a short space of time, so make sure you check the latest forecast at the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre and i-SITE in Franz Josef/Waiau or at the South Westland/Weheka Area Office in Fox Glacier/Weheka.
While you are there, make sure you check the current track conditions to ensure you have the most up-to-date information before heading out to explore the park.
Trip intentions
Leave details of your trip with a responsible person, and don't forget to check in when you get back. Trip intention forms are available from DOC visitor centres or the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council www.mountainsafety.org.nz.
Equipment
Come prepared to encounter all conditions - you should carry warm and waterproof clothing with you at all times. And don't forget to bring insect repellent as sandflies are prevalent.
If you use the track system in the park for overnight trips, make sure you are properly equipped and well prepared. Make sure your group has a capable leader and that everyone is carrying a sleeping bag, cooking utensils, sufficient high energy food (with some extra for emergencies), a waterproof raincoat and overtrousers, gloves, a hat, and several layers of warm (wool or fleece) clothing.
Visiting the glaciers
If you are visiting the glaciers, please read the safety information and obey all signs and rope barriers during your visit. You can also visit the Glacier Country website to view the latest daily glacier access update.
back to top