Lake Matheson, Westland National Park.
Westland Tai Poutini National Park (established 1960) extends from the highest peaks of Kā Tiritiri o te Moana/Southern Alps to the remote beaches of the wild West Coast. It is an area of magnificent primeval vistas; snow-capped mountains, glaciers, forests, tussock grasslands, coast, lakes, rivers and wetlands.
The scenic landscape of Westland Tai Poutini National Park has been recognised with World Heritage status.
Find out about the activities you can do in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. You can visit the famous Fox and Franz Josef glaciers and outstanding mountains-to-the-sea vistas.
Huts in the park cater for mountaineers, ski-tourers and backcountry walkers.
If you are going to use the track system in the park make sure you are properly equipped and well prepared.
Planning on visiting the Fox and Franz glacier valleys? Check out this brochure to learn how to keep youself safe.
The Fox Glacier on the West Coast of the South Island is world famous. It’s big, it’s beautiful but it can be dangerous! Watch this video on how to enjoy it safely.
The 150 attendees at the Westland Tai Poutini National Park 50th anniversary celebrations enjoyed this historic event immensely.
General Policy for National Parks
NZ weather
Stop the spread of didymo
Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
