Westland Tai Poutini National Park

Photo

by Department of Conservation

/ CC BY 2.0

Westland Tai Poutini National Park, located on the west coast of New Zealand's South Island, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, which include rugged mountains, dense temperate rainforests, and sprawling glaciers. Established in 1960, the park covers an area of approximately 1,175 square kilometers and is home to iconic glaciers such as Franz Josef and Fox, both of which descend from the Southern Alps to near sea level. Visitors can explore a variety of trails, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and experiencing the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this temperate rainforest environment.

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Aoraki / Mount Cook

Franz Josef Glacier

Fox Glacier

Hooker Valley Track

Lake Matheson

Hokitika Gorge