Lake Mapourika Scenic Cruise

During your visit to the Franz Josef Glacier, embark on a scenic cruise along Lake Mapourika to explore a temperate rainforest and discover unique wildlife.

Activity Details

On the day of the adventure, meet at 30 Main Road in Franz Josef. Travel to the launch point and board the vessel for a scenic journey across Lake Mapourika, located in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

Sailing over the calm waters, enjoy views of wilderness landscapes, lush rainforests, and various native bird species. The boat features covered cabins for comfort and outdoor viewing platforms for close views of the surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The route includes the Okatarito Kiwi Sanctuary, where you can look for the rare kiwi bird. A local guide will provide commentary on the unique ecosystems that contribute to the area's World Heritage status, especially the temperate rainforest within a glacial environment.

After 2 hours, the tour will conclude back at the starting point.

Hiking Route

Upgrade your experience to include a 1.5-hour nature walk into the rainforest. After the cruise, participate in a rainforest hike that reflects the Jurassic period. Look for various bird species and local flora and fauna.

If fortunate, the guide may show some edible plant species, and you might collect flax flowers as a souvenir. The total experience lasts 2.5 hours, concluding at the meeting point.