| Franz Josef and Fox glaciers | |
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| Getting to Franz Josef proved to be a bit of a rush, we kept stopping to look at things, a constant problem. Our accomodation for the night was at Garden Court Suites and Apartments and very nice it was too. We dined in the village at one of the pavement cafes after the heli flight and again it couldn't be faulted. Outside having a meal at 6.30pm on the South Island of New Zealand looking at snow covered mountains, you have to keep pinching yourself and saying "is this real?" | |
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The summits of Franz Josef glacier and Fox glacier are accessed by a spectacular helicopter flight. Landings are made at the top, 9600ft asl and flights made up and down both glaciers, an awesome experience. The terminal face of Fox glacier can be reached on foot from Highway 6 after driving down to the parking area. |
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The footpath from the car park to Fox glacier face, off Highway 6. The little sign to the right of the path warns of rock falls so listen out for rumbling noises and don't hang about! |
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Our Spanish friends who accompanied us on the flight. If they're looking at this, please email me. |
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On top of the World, Mr Cool with his helicopter keeping watch, engine running. Don't suppose AA or RAC can help much at 2300 metres with a flat battery! |
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There are numerous 'plane and helicopter companies after your business and we chose The Helicopter Line, simply on the basis it was the first one we came to! You do need a reasonable time in these sorts of places because the weather is fickle particularly in the mountains and trips are also often booked up. Advance booking from your last stop is worth considering, we were very lucky to get a flight at 5.00pm in the afternoon. |
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The Fox glacier terminal face is an easy walk from the village, about an hours return from the car park. |
