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Bella Vista Motel Franz Josef Glacier
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 Franz Josef 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 Waiho Hot Tubs and kiwi incubation unit at the West Coast Wildlife Centre.
Our motel in Franz Josef has 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:
| Waiho Hot Tubs | 350m |
| Franz Josef Glacier Carpark | 5km |
| Fox Glacier | 24km |
| Hokitika | 133km |
| Greymouth | 174km |
| Lake Wanaka | 285km |
- At a glance
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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 Email motel
Address 34 Cron Street, Franz Josef Glacier, South Westland
Phone +64 3 752 0008
Reviews
Room Options
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, Smart 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
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, Smart 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
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, Smart 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
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, Smart 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
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, Smart 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
Facilities
- 18 Superior fully serviced motel units
- All designated non Smoking
- Family Units
- Studio Units (some with spa baths)
- Freeview Smart TV
- DVD Player & DVDs available
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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
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.
Waiho Hot Tubs
Relax and unwind in the soothing comfort of fresh, warm water and aromatic wood smoke. Enjoy your own private tubs, nestled in a lush rainforest setting in New Zealand's West Coast. The wood-fired hot tubs combine the soothing comfort of warm water with the unique atmosphere of wood smoke to give you an unforgettable and unique 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. The centre is only 1 minute by car from our Franz Josef motel. 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. This is only 2 minutes from our Franz Josef motel.
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. This is only 7 minutes by car from our motel in Franz Josef to the entrance.
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 and only 4 minutes from the Franz Josef motel.
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
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 $252 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 – Your stay at the central village Bella Vista Motel will leave you feeling fully refreshed and revitalized. Select the room type that fits your needs and budget.
Call us on 03 752 0008, e-mail [email protected] or book on the website by using the booking bar below.
Our Story
Introducing your hosts, Jim & Cindy
We are both originally from China and came to study Hospitality Management in New Zealand in New Plymouth. We have worked and lived in a few cities and towns in New Zealand, gaining experience and working in the hospitality industry in different roles since 2014. In 2019 we moved to Franz Josef Glacier and slowly build a big love for this little town, particularly its beautiful scenery and friendly local community.
Cindy continued working at various local hotels while Jim started working at Bella Vista Franz Josef Glacier as a cleaner and receptionist. Then in 2023 the opportunity came to makes our dream come true to become the business owners of our own motel. We are very proud to offer you comfortable accommodation that is also our home, invested with love. We look forward to welcoming you and are ready to introduce you to this beautiful New Zealand destination.
Franz Josef Glacier, Westland - Your Destination
The Glacier region of South Westland is a land rich in natural wonders from majestic snow-capped peaks and vast forests to sand dunes, lagoons and beaches of the varied coastline. This region is the northern gateway to Te Wahipounamu, the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, which includes Aoraki/Mount Cook, Westland Tai Poutini, Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks and surrounding conservation lands.
It is an almost continuous stretch of wilderness where the impact of humans is confined to a few small settlements and the narrow strip of the main highway. World Heritage status means this part of New Zealand has been recognized as being among the world’s foremost natural landscapes. Westland Tai Poutini National Park is the main natural feature of the glacier region, encompassing the two famous glaciers – Franz Josef/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Fox/Te Moeka o Tuawe. But there is more to see than these two magnificent rivers of ice.
The park stretches from isolated beaches beside the Tasman Sea to some of New Zealand’s highest peaks. Within these boundaries are an incredible variety of natural landscapes. In many places the conservation areas are in continuous sequence from sea to mountain, a sight now rare in the world. The region is home to a number of rare and endangered birds including the Okarito brown kiwi, whio (blue duck), kaka and kakariki.
The glacier region is also rich in human history. Its coastline, river valleys and alpine passes were known to Maori long before the first European settlers stepped ashore. The main attraction was pounamu (greenstone) found in South Westland, a precious stone to Maori for tools, weapons and jewellery. There were large settlements of Maori at Okarito, Mahitahi (Bruce Bay) and Makawhio (Jacobs River). European interest began with sealers pursuing New Zealand fur seal along the coast. Later, gold was discovered. The black sand beaches near Okarito, with their hidden layers of fine alluvial gold, were some of the richest gold claims in all Westland. Settlers used the region’s extensive forests for timber and river flats and valleys were cleared for farmland. However, such was the wild nature of the country, much was left untouched and has, over the years, been protected for all to enjoy in a series of parks, reserves and wilderness areas.
There is so much to explore, so make sure you book yourself enough nights at Bella Vista Franz.
Our Community Involvement
- We have a commitment to support local businesses regarding purchasing.
- We are members of Hospitality New Zealand.
- We hire staff locally
- We have business partnership with local restaurants and activities.
Our Sustainability Practices
- We buy local to reduce transport emissions
- We change all light bulbs to led to reduce energy usage.
- We use refillable dispensers for soap and shampoo to reduce plastic waste from individual pack ones.
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!
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