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Franz Josef isn’t a big place, but if you ask anyone who lives here, they’ll tell you that’s part of the charm. Set between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea on New Zealand’s West Coast, this small glacier town offers something truly rare. It’s where dramatic landscapes, a relaxed pace, and big experiences all […]

Franz Josef isn’t just about glacier hikes and high-energy adventures — it’s also one of the most peaceful places in New Zealand to unwind. If you’re planning a couples’ escape, a nature reset, or a slower-paced holiday, there are plenty of ways to relax in this rainforest-surrounded village. From stargazing beneath clear skies to soaking

Experience the magic of the cooler seasons on the West Coast, New Zealand. Looking for an off-season escape that’s just as beautiful—if not better—than summer? Autumn and winter in Franz Josef and the surrounding areas bring quieter trails, crisp days, and stunning views of snowcapped peaks. Despite its rainforest reputation, Glacier Country shines in the

Celebrating Our Partnership with National Geographic Traveller (UK) – Lakes & Mountains 2024   We are excited to share a landmark achievement for Rainforest Retreat – a special feature in the iconic National Geographic Traveller (UK) – Lakes & Mountains 2024! This partnership, born from our shared values of exploration, conservation and travel marks a

What is Matariki?   Discover Matariki, the Māori name for a cluster of stars, marks a significant event in New Zealand’s cultural calendar. Rising in midwinter, Matariki heralds the Māori New Year, a time steeped in tradition, reflection and celebration. In 2024, Te Rā Aro ki Matariki will be commemorated on Friday, June 28th. This

Experience the Healing Power of Forest Bathing at Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef Glacier   The allure of being amidst natural wonders evokes an inexplicable feeling that soothes our souls. The rustling symphony of the forest, the earthy aroma of trees and the play of sunlight filtering through the foliage envelop us with a sense of

Rainforest Honoured with TripAdvisor’s 2024 Travellers Choice Best of the Best Award   We are overjoyed to announce an extraordinary milestone that marks a significant moment in our journey at Rainforest Retreat. With immense pride, we share that we have been awarded the 2024 Travellers Choice Best of the Best Award by TripAdvisor, a testament

Heading to New Zealand this winter and expecting blizzards, whiteouts, and sub-zero temperatures? Well, hang on, before you pack your snowshoes, you need to know that New Zealand winters aren’t quite as extreme as what our Northern Hemisphere cousins experience.   In fact, here in Franz Josef, winter temperatures are pretty tolerable (by most standards!).

The South Island is renowned for its wild and remote locations. And it doesn’t get much wilder or remote than Bruce Bay.   Located 30 minutes south of Fox Glacier on the banks of the Mahitahi River, Bruce Bay boasts a permanent population of 6 residents. If you include the residents of nearby Lake Paringa,

Explore the Majestic West Coast of New Zealand   Are you planning your trip to New Zealand and wondering how long you should spend on the West Coast? Covering 10% of New Zealand’s landmass yet home to only 1% of its population, the West Coast of the South Island is truly majestic. Its vast landscapes