Franz Josef Glacier - In the heart of Franz Josef Glacier Village
Flexible dates

Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef Glacier

Overview

We welcome you to our friendly motel in Franz Josef.

The property has been independently assessed by Qualmark as 4 star quality accommodation.

Franz Josef village is the perfect place to stay when exploring New Zealand’s glaciers. Our motel is easy to find on Cron Street in the centre of the village.

From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to shops, restaurants and other activities. We are also a short walk to the Glacier Hot Pools and kiwi incubation unit at the West Coast Wildlife Centre.

We have ample safe parking so you can explore on foot.

Our superior smoke-free motel in Franz Josef includes a variety of studios and one-bedroom units. Our purpose built access units have been designed with parking at the door for your convenience. You have a choice of king, queen or single beds with electric blankets for those cooler nights.

Along with great accommodation, Bella Vista motel Franz Josef also offers free and unlimited WiFi.

Wireless internet is available with a spacious work desk in every room. Rooms vary from just tea and toast making facilities to those with cooking facilities. We offer continental breakfasts and evening meals charge back facilities, dine in or dine out.

You can be assured of a warm welcome at reception where we will assist you in every way possible.

Contact us for more information on availability, rates and rooms at Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef.

Distances from Bella Vista Motel, Franz Josef:

Glacier Hot Pools 350m
Franz Josef Glacier Carpark 5km
Fox Glacier 24km
Hokitika 133km
Greymouth 174km
Lake Wanaka 285km
  • At a glance
  • Check-in 2.00pm

    Check-out 10.00am

    Office hours 8.00am to 8.30pm

  • On-site parking Onsite parking free of charge. EV charger available for a small fee.

  • Breakfast service Continental breakfast available on request.

  • Available on request Interconnecting rooms, cot, high chair.

  • Value adds Free WiFi, complimentary towels for the Hot Pools, guest BBQ, DVD library, coin operated guest laundry.

  • Email

  • Address 34 Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier, South Westland

  • Phone +64 3 752 0008

Reviews

Room Options

Room Options

Compact Studio Compact Studio photo 2

Compact Studio

This is a west facing compact hotel style studio with a queen size bed. The private bathroom has a shower, W.C, hair dryer, heated towel rail, along with fresh towels provided daily. The studio includes cutlery and crockery to prepare a light meal or breakfast. Also, there is a fridge, small microwave, toaster, and complementary tea/coffee/hot chocolate, along with a hot water kettle. Ironing facilities, alarm clock / radio, LCD TV & DVD Player, electric heater, telephone and unlimited, multi device wifi is also provided. For the cooler nights there is a dual control electric blanket on the bed and a NZ pure wool blanket available for extra warmth.

  • 16 m2
  • 1
  • 2
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Queen Studio Queen Studio photo 2

Queen Studio

An easy access studio with a queen size bed. This studio is ground level with views towards the peaks of the Glacier Valley. Parking is available directly in front of your studio. The private bathroom has an wet floor access shower with full shower curtain. W.C, hair dryer, heated towel rail, along with fresh towels provided daily. The studio includes a kitchenette which includes cutlery, crockery, microwave and electric fry pan. Also, there is a fridge, toaster, and complementary tea/coffee/hot chocolate, along with a hot water kettle. Ironing facilities, alarm clock / radio, LCD TV & DVD Player, electric heater, telephone and Free multi device WiFi is also provided. For the cooler nights there is a dual control electric blanket on the bed and a NZ pure wool blanket available for extra warmth.

  • 20 m2
  • 1
  • 2
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Twin Studio Twin Studio photo 2

Twin Studio

Our more private Twin Studio provide a queen and single bed. This is ideal if you are wanting two separate beds or if you are a couple traveling with a child. The private bathroom has a shower, W.C, hair dryer, heated towel rail, along with fresh towels provided daily. The studio includes a kitchenette which includes cutlery and crockery microwave and electric fry pan. Also, there is a fridge, toaster, and complementary tea/coffee/hot chocolate, along with a hot water kettle. Ironing facilities, alarm clock / radio, LCD TV & DVD Player, electric heater, telephone and Free Multi Device Wi-fi is also provided. For the cooler nights there is a dual control electric blanket on both beds and two NZ pure wool blanket available for extra warmth.

  • 20 m2
  • 2
  • 3
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King Studio King Studio photo 2

King Studio

An upstairs studio with a king size bed. Offering an unbroken view towards the impressive Fritz Range and its many small glaciers, including the Croz Glacier. The Franz Josef Glacier is just over the bush lined horizon. The private bathroom has a shower, W.C, hair dryer, heated towel rail, along with fresh towels provided daily. The studio includes a kitchenette which includes cutlery and crockery microwave and electric fry pan. Also there is a fridge, toaster, and complementary tea/coffee/hot chocolate, along with a hot water kettle. Ironing facilities, alarm clock / radio, LCD TV, electric heater, telephone and Free Multi Device Wi-fi is also provided. For the cooler nights there is a dual control electric blanket on the bed and a NZ pure wool blanket available for extra warmth.

  • 20 m2
  • 1
  • 2
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One Bedroom Family Unit One Bedroom Family Unit photo 2

One Bedroom Family Unit

A one bedroom unit which has a queen size bed in the living area and two single beds in the bedroom. The living area has a dinning table, desk and chairs. Our One Bedroom Family Units are the ideal family accommodation for up to 4 people. Our family units are approximately double the size of a Standard Studio. The facilities in a Family Unit include: A bathroom with a single four jet spa bath with a shower above. The full kitchen includes cutlery and crockery, a bench top oven with two hot plates, microwave, and cooking utensils. Also there is a fridge, toaster, and complementary tea/coffee/hot chocolate, along with a hot water kettle. Ironing facilities, alarm clock / radio, LCD TV & DVD Player, electric heater, telephone and Free Multi Device Wi-fi is also provided. For the cooler nights there are electric blankets on the beds and extra heater in the bedroom and NZ pure wool blankets available for extra warmth.

  • 37 m2
  • 3
  • 4
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Facilities

Facilities

  • 18 Superior fully serviced motel units 
  • All designated non Smoking 
  • Family Units 
  • Studio Units (some with spa baths) 
  • Freeview TV
  • DVD Player & DVDs available
  • Type 2 EV chargers. Please pre-book.

  • Modern Guest Laundry 
  • Continental breakfast available 
  • Local Activity Booking Centre 
  • Portable Cot/Highchair available 
  • Eftpos & major credit card facilities
Local Attractions

Local Attractions

For more local info – email or give us a ring

Our Location

Getting to Glacier Country is an important part of the West Coast experience. If you are travelling from the south we recommend visiting the waterfalls through the Haast Pass and taking a jet boat ride with Waiatoto River Safaris. Go for a walk along the beach at Bruce Bay and make time to visit both the scenic Fox Glacier and Lake Matherson. From the north check out the historic village Shantytown and the Glassblowing, Gold crafting and Greenstone carving skills found in Hokitika. Even stop at the Ross Gold Fields and do some gold panning for your selves!

Things to do

It is not until you place your footprints onto a high alpine snow field, journey deep into the towering rainforests, explore the blue ice caves of the glaciers, tackle a trout on a beautiful lake or jet boat up a glacial river, that you will truly experience Glacier Country.

Glacier Hot Pools

The new Glacier Hot Pools are nestled in the rainforest just down from your accommodation. An evening under the stars, sheltered by nature's leafy canopy at the Glacier Hot Pools, is a truly enchanting, rejuvenating and unforgettable experience.

Across Country Quad Bikes

400cc of pure grunt will take you out on the river bed to get a great view of the glacier and some mud! These two-hour trips depart frequently throughout the day. E-mail us for up to date information and availability.

Scenic Flights

Helicopter and fixed wing flights are the most popular way to view of the rivers of ice. E-mail us for up to date flight paths, availability and specials. Bookings are essential. Flights do not depart unless the weather is suitable so payment is not taken until your flight is confirmed. E-mail us for more information and to check availability.

Okarito Kiwi Adventure Trips

Join Ian and his team on dusk at their Okarito base to head out and visit the Okarito Brown Kiwi. You will join a small group for a 2-3 hour walk. There is a 90% chance of viewing the kiwi.

West Coast Wildlife Centre

Combining nature, conservation and wildlife in the same place. It’s a unique and fun place to see New Zealand’s national bird the kiwi up close. Those that are interested can also experience a behind the scenes look at their hatching and incubation programme.

Roberts Point Track

For those with a good level of fitness, this 5-hour return walk from Alex Knob/Lake Wombat car park; or 5-hour 20 min return from glacier car park will see you travel across streams, ice-carved rock and a suspension bridge over Rope Creek. The views of the glacier and mountain peaks are spectacular.

Skydive Franz Josef

Choosing to skydive in Franz Josef can see you jumping New Zealand’s highest skydive at 19,000 feet. Not for the faint-hearted, but the views of Franz Josef Glacier and beyond are superb. Weather dependent but the friendly and professional team will keep you constantly updated with jumping conditions.

Horse Treks

From beginners to advanced. Enjoy Franz Josef on horseback!

Glacier Guided Walks

Whether you choose the Ice Explorer or the Heli Hike your experience will be magical. Departure times are available to suit most plans. A moderate fitness level is needed. Bookings are essential. E-mail us for more information.

Tatare Tunnels Walk

This is an easy, short walk leaving from Franz Josef Village and venturing through the West Coast rainforest. Start by following the old 4WD track until you reach the now abandoned water tunnels. Don’t forget a torch and raincoat to explore the tunnels.

Alpine Cinema

A great option for a rainy day - with its Giant 13 metre wide curved screen and surround sound.

Ice Climbing

An exciting option for those wanting to get out on the glacier, no prior experience is necessary and all climbers receive expert tuition and high tech ice climbing equipment.

White Water Rafting

Eco-Rafting offers something pretty special in terms of white water rafting, you will helicopter or hike into the rafting locations as most do not have road access. Grade 2 – 5 options available. There are also natural hot-pools next to the river to soak in after the adventure.

Kayaking

Enjoy the quiet and tranquillity of either a guided kayak tour or kayaking independently. Marvel at the spectacular views of New Zealand's highest mountain peaks which are often mirrored on the black tannin-filled waters of the lake.

Glacier Valley Walks

If you want to venture beyond where unguided visitors can safely go, this 3 hour fully guided walk up the glacier valley is for you. Departs several times daily.

White Herons

After a river jet boat journey which takes you to the head of the Okarito Lagoon, you make your way along an easy board-walk before arriving at the hide. The birds nest on only this one corner of the river every year.

Rainforest, Glacier Valley & Beach Walks / Tramps

From a wheelchair, accessible walks to Peters Pool through to two-day tramps to Alex Knob and Roberts Point.

Te Koha Gallery

A gallery and centre focused on Maori arts and carvings in greenstone, bone and native wood. Take the opportunity to carve your very own greenstone under the guidance of a local expert.

Franz Josef Eating & Nightlife

For a small village, there are many options – The Blue Ice Café is great for pizzas, Alice May is a fun and interesting Tudor style pub offering some good specials. The Snake Bite Brewery is a firm favourite at any time of the day and Monsoon are also popular.

 

Bella Vista Franz Josef Glacier will happily offer local advice on any of these activities and will gladly facilitate complimentary reservations should an activity require a booking.

Gallery Deals

Deals

Walks, boating, kayaks, scenic flights or a healthy dose of adventure activity options compliment every visit to this part of Glacier Country. Spend the evening enjoying a well-deserved soak in the hot tubs, and relax with food and drinks at the ample selection of restaurants and bars.  Take a look at a couple of our best deals to see if we can't tempt you.

Couples Soak, Stay & Dine

From just $229 for two.
 

Perfect for a romantic break or mini get away to Franz Josef

Soak – Treat yourself to a rejuvenating hour long soak in the new, fresh water, wood fired Waiho Hot Tubs.

Dine – Enjoy the flavours of SnakeBite Brewery with a $50 food & beverage voucher to share.

Slumber – Don’t worry about getting up early – we’ll also treat you to a 11am  check-out on your day of departure to make sure your stay at Bella Vista Motel leaves you feeling fully refreshed and revitalized.  Select the room type that fits your needs and budget.
 

 

Family Soak, Stay & Dine

Just $435 for a family of four.

A family escape designed for two adults and two children.

Soak – Treat your family to a refreshing hour long soak in the new, fresh water, wood fired Waiho Hot Tubs.

Dine – Enjoy the flavors of SnakeBite Brewery with a $100 per family F&B voucher.

Slumber – Don’t worry about getting up early – we’ll also treat you to a late check-out on your day of departure to make sure your stay at Bella Vista Motel leaves you feeling fully refreshed and revitalised.

There is plenty for a family to explore in Franz, adding on a second night is easy.

 

Call us on 03 752 0008, e-mail [email protected] or book on the website by using the booking bar below.

 

Waiho Hot Tubs Franz Josef

 

Location

Location

Getting to Glacier Country is an important part of the West Coast experience. If you are travelling from the south we recommend visiting the waterfalls through the Haast Pass and taking a jet boat ride with Waiatoto River Safaris. Go for a walk along the beach at Bruce Bay and make time to visit both the Fox Glacier and Lake Matherson.

From the north check out the historic village Shantytown and the glass blowing, Gold crafting and Greenstone carving skills found in Hokitika. Even stop at the Ross Gold Fields and do some gold panning for yourselves!

We are located on CRON STREET. Keep driving into the village until you reach the 50km/h area then turn on to one of the short side streets to travel to Cron Street.

 

34 Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier, South Westland

+64 3 752 0008

[email protected]

Travel distances in kilometres to Franz Josef Glacier

  • From:
  • Ashburton 409 kms
  • Blenheim 496 kms
  • Christchurch 379 kms
  • Dunedin 555 kms
  • Fox Glacier 24 kms
  • Greymouth 172 kms
  • Hanmer Springs 387 kms
  • Hokitika 134 kms
  • Invercargill 525 kms
  • Kaikoura 499 kms
  • Mosgiel 541 kms
  • Nelson 459 kms
  • Oamaru 503 kms
  • Queenstown 353 kms
  • Te Anau 510 kms
  • Wanaka 285 kms
  • Westport 272 kms

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Availability & Bookings