New Zealand · West Coast
Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson
Franz Josef's quieter twin, paired with the famous mirror reflections of Lake Matheson.
About Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson
Just 25 minutes south of Franz Josef, Fox Glacier (Te Moeka o Tuawe) is the longer and quieter of the two — a 13km tongue of ice still actively shaping the valley below.
Nearby Lake Matheson is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand: on a still morning, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman are perfectly mirrored in tannin-stained water framed by ancient kahikatea forest.
While You're There
What to See & Do
- Heli-hike onto Fox Glacier
- Lake Matheson reflection walk (1.5 hours easy loop)
- Gillespies Beach and seal colony
- Minnehaha glow-worm walk after dark
- Scenic flights with Mt Cook landings
How We Can Arrange It
We'll Take Care of the Details
As your booking agent, Mercury Pacific can include Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson in your tailored itinerary. Here's what we'll handle and advise on so you can simply enjoy the experience:
Lake Matheson is best at sunrise — completely still and golden
The glaciers are retreating quickly — see them while you can
Cafés at the lake do excellent breakfast post-walk
Every detail — bookings, timings and transfers — is arranged for you as part of your Mercury Pacific tour.
When to Visit
Year-round; calmest reflections in autumn and winter mornings.
Include Fox Glacier & Lake Matheson in Your TourKeep Exploring
More in West Coast
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
Layered limestone stacks and dramatic blowholes carved by 30 million years of Tasman Sea swell.
Franz Josef Glacier
A 12km river of blue ice descending from the Southern Alps to within 250m of sea level.
Hokitika & Greenstone Country
The vivid turquoise Hokitika Gorge, Māori greenstone (pounamu) carving and a charming gold-rush town.