Kiwi Ranger - Franz Josef Waiau Area
Are you visiting the Franz Josef Waiau Area on the rugged West Coast of the South Island? Then you are invited to become a Franz Josef Kiwi Ranger - no matter what your age!
Your free Kiwi Ranger booklet includes fifteen fun and interactive activities designed to get you out and about exploring the Franz Josef Waiau Area - learning more about our unique features and special places along the way.
Asking a DOC Ranger about his job
You can interview a DOC Ranger, explore the glacier valley to look at rock flour, rivers and safety messages, wander through the rainforest looking at plants and birds, or go exploring at the coastal township of Ōkārito - the Franz Josef Kiwi Ranger programme has something for everyone.
Kiwi Ranger is a great 'all-weather' option with some activities specially designed for the occasional wet day that we get here in Franz Josef Glacier!
Once you have completed the required number of activities (which varies with your age), just return to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Visitor Centre to collect your very own Franz Josef Kiwi Ranger badge!
Franz Josef Kiwi Ranger badge
The Kiwi Ranger programme was created by Otago University lecturer and environmental designer Dr Mick Abbott and his wife Carli Richter after taking part in similar programmes during an extended trip in North America with their young family.
Want to become a Kiwi Ranger in other locations?
Awesome! The programme is currently available in Aoraki/Mount Cook, Arthur's Pass, Nelson Lakes and Mount Aspiring National Parks, and Orokonui Ecosanctuary in Otago. More locations coming soon - see the Kiwi Ranger website for more information.