This fully-accessible walk winds through the rainforest to a small kettle lake, which was formed by ice melting amongst glacial moraine about 200 years ago. Enjoy the reflective views of the glacier and mountainpeaks in this tranquil setting.

Car parking fees

Car parking fees apply at Franz Josef Glacier from 15 December 2025.

How to pay fees or buy a permit.

Drive or walk south from the Franz Josef/Waiau township across the Waiho River bridge and turn left onto the Glacier Access Road or Te Ara a Waiau. Drive or walk for approximately 4 km to the car park at the end of the road. 

Car parking fees

DOC is charging fees for car parking at Franz Josef Glacier as a pilot from 15 December 2025 to 30 June 2026. 

The fees are $5 per hour or $20 a day. If you arrive and leave within 20 minutes, parking is free. If you plan to stay for longer than 20 minutes you must pay on arrival.

Payment machines that accept debit and credit cards are highly visible at each site. Cash payments are not accepted.

Locals and other car park users can purchase an annual permit. Permits cannot be purchased at the payment machines and need to be purchased online.

How to pay fees or buy an annual permit.