If you’re passionate about capturing Aotearoa’s wild beauty through your lens, Franz Josef is a dream come true. From glacial ice formations to mist-cloaked rainforests and mirror-like lakes, this corner of Te Waipounamu (the South Island) offers endless inspiration for photographers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love snapping travel memories, here are some of the best places for photography around Franz Josef.
Franz Josef Glacier — from the Sky and on the Ice
For the ultimate shot, you can’t go past the glacier itself. The icy crevasses, towering seracs, and deep-blue ice caves make for truly unforgettable imagery. Join the Heli Hike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides to get exclusive access to the glacier and capture images that few ever see! You’ll capture incredible aerial views on the scenic helicopter flight up, then step out onto the ice for up-close shots of this living, shifting wonder.
For astro photographers, check out the world-first Glacier Overnighter where you spend the evening on the ice and experience one of the most stunning dark sky areas in the world.
Lake Mapourika
A short drive from Franz Josef village, Lake Mapourika is a must-visit for sunrise or sunset photography. When conditions are still, the lake transforms into a giant mirror reflecting the Southern Alps, a perfect opportunity to play with symmetry and light. Bring a tripod and capture the early-morning mist rising off the water.
Peters Pool
A 25-minute return walk from the Glacier Valley car park takes you to Peters Pool, a small kettle lake surrounded by lush West Coast rainforest. On calm days, it perfectly reflects the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier. It’s a peaceful spot to capture the contrast between ancient ice and vibrant green forest.
Ōkārito Lagoon
Just 25 minutes north of Franz Josef, the Ōkārito Lagoon is New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland and a haven for bird photography. You might spot kōtuku (white heron), royal spoonbills, and other rare species, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and golden wetlands. Stay for sunset as the golden light across the lagoon is spectacular!
No matter where you point your lens, Franz Josef delivers world-class scenery and ever-changing light. For the most extraordinary shots, nothing beats standing on the glacier itself with Franz Josef Glacier Guides where you’ll experience and photograph the very heart of this awe-inspiring landscape.