The Franz Josef Glacier Overnighter is the only experience of its kind in New Zealand - an exclusive overnight stay on the glacier, guided by the expert team at Franz Josef Glacier Guides. We recently heard from Debbie and Don Virgovic, who almost let the weather talk them out of it. We're glad they didn't.
This is their story.
The Decision
"Let's just do it!" Those words from Debbie resulted in one of the most memorable and incredible nights the couple had ever experienced.
When they were keeping an eye on the West Coast weather, Debbie and Don put their trust in the expert guidance of their Franz Josef Glacier Guides team - and were rewarded for it.
"Sure enough, we had beautiful clear night skies."
On the Ice with Jule and Drew
From Glacier Base on Cron Street, guides Jule and Drew fitted Debbie and Don with crampons and led them onto Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier) for an afternoon of exploration. Safety was the first priority - it always is at Franz Josef Glacier Guides, the only operator licensed to guide on the glacier itself - but that never dampened the adventure.
"The trek we went on was amazing, navigating around the glacier's crevasses. Our guides were the consummate experts and a joy to be with."
As the afternoon faded, Jule and Drew set up camp and prepared a delicious dinner for the couple to enjoy at sunset on the ice - one of the most remote and remarkable dining settings in all of New Zealand.
The Night Sky
For Don, an astrophotographer, what came next was beyond anything he had anticipated.
"The absolute magic of the clear night skies was upon us. As an astrophotographer, you could not ask for more to capture incredible photographs."
Few places in New Zealand offer skies like those above Franz Josef Glacier. With no light pollution and the vast Southern Alps as a backdrop, the conditions were extraordinary - one of the most unexpected and unforgettable dimensions of the Glacier Overnighter.
Morning, Kea, and a Warm Send-Off
The couple woke to crisp mountain air, coffee, and pastries. And then came an unexpected visitor - or rather, a whole circus of them.
"We had an unexpected visit by a 'circus' of Kea mountain parrots. Their amazing curiosity is truly something to experience."
Kea are New Zealand's alpine parrot - notoriously bold, highly intelligent, and completely unforgettable up close. It was the perfect, unscripted finale to a night on the ice.
After flying off the glacier, Debbie and Don transferred to Legacy Te Waonui Hotel for a full breakfast, a night of rainforest luxury, and a five-course degustation dinner - the ideal way to wind down after sleeping on a glacier.
Their Verdict
"Overall, this trip was a lifetime experience and one we will never forget. If you're thinking about going on the overnight glacier experience, don't hesitate - listen to the words from my wife: 'Let's just do it!' Endless thanks to the whole team of professionals at Franz Josef Glacier Guides. They are the best!!"
- Debbie and Don Virgovic
Experience the Franz Josef Glacier Overnighter
The Glacier Overnighter is a bespoke Franz Josef glacier tour. It includes helicopter flights, guided glacier exploration, all meals and equipment, an overnight stay on the ice, and a night at Legacy Te Waonui Hotel - including a five-course degustation dinner. For pricing and full trip information head to Glacier Overnighter.
Availability is limited. Contact our team to check dates and begin planning your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Franz Josef Glacier Overnighter?
The Glacier Overnighter is an exclusive two-day, two-night Franz Josef glacier tour offered by Franz Josef Glacier Guides - the only operator licensed to guide on the glacier. It includes a scenic helicopter flight, an afternoon of guided glacier exploration, overnight camping on the ice with dinner and stargazing, and a luxury stay at Legacy Te Waonui Hotel with a five-course degustation dinner.
Is it suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes. The Glacier Overnighter is fully tailored to you. The hiking difficulty is adjusted to suit your fitness and ability, and your guide will be with you every step of the way.
What happens if the weather doesn't cooperate?
Weather is always the deciding factor for any Franz Josef glacier experience. The Overnighter is designed as a two-night stay - one on ice, one at Te Waonui - specifically to allow flexibility. Our team monitors conditions closely and will work with you to find the right window. Safety is always the priority.
What's included?
Everything: crampons and technical glacier gear, waterproof clothing, a stretcher bed and alpine sleeping bag, a chef-prepared dinner on the ice, morning pastries and coffee, buffet breakfast at Te Waonui both mornings, and a five-course degustation dinner on your final night.
How do I book?
The Glacier Overnighter is a bespoke experience and not available through the standard online booking system. Contact our team directly to discuss availability and dates: walks@franzjosefglacier.com or call 0800 484 337.
Image credit - Don Virgovic