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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

A Hub of Activity at the New Franz Josef Glacier Base   Earlier this year, the Franz Josef Glacier Guides team celebrated moving into the new Glacier Base – as our closest neighbour, we often visit to say hello. Exploring Glacier Facts: What We Learned About Franz Josef Glacier Glacier Base buzzes with excitement. It

NZ’s Highest Skydive Experience   Seeking an adventure that combines sheer exhilaration with breathtaking scenery? Look no further than the skydiving experience offered by Skydive Franz and Fox Glacier, where you can take part in NZ’s highest skydive. This unique experience not only promises the thrill of freefall but also showcases the stunning landscapes of

Conservation Efforts for New Zealand’s Rowi Kiwi   Nestled in the lush rainforests of the West Coast, the Rowi Kiwi remains one of the nation’s most cherished treasures. This ‘nationally critical’ species finds a haven at West Coast Wildlife Centre, Franz Josef Glacier – a pivotal conservation effort aiming to turn the tide for these