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The Franz Josef glacier is a world-class visitor attraction with tourists and nature enthusiasts from around the globe flocking to the region for glacier hiking, nature walks, kayaking, bird watching, scenic tours and other top outdoor eco-friendly activities and attractions.

A magical combination of primeval rainforests, raw natural beauty, mirror-like lakes, breath-taking glaciers, and an impressive variety of New Zealand native flora and fauna - all within a New Zealand World Heritage Area, create this perfect piece of paradise in Westland National Park on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island.

Located just a short drive from the famous Franz Josef Glacier and Franz Josef village, Lake Mapourika is the largest lake in South Westland and its water reflections are almost as beautiful as those in the world renowned Lake Matheson.

Glacier Country Lake Tours operates sightseeing and wildlife eco-cruises across the untouched beauty of Lake Mapourika (Flower of the Dawn), offering a safe, tranquil and easy adventure operating all year round in most weather conditions.

Operating up to 6 trips per day, Glacier Country Lake Tours will collect you from your Franz Josef accommodation for the short journey to Lake Mapourika and the delightful cruise vessel, the Hanna-K. With seating for only 24 passengers and loads of large viewing windows and covered outdoor viewing platform, there is plenty of opportunities to view the native flora, fauna and bird life while enjoying a complimentary hot drink and light snack as you listen to an engaging commentary as we point out scenic highlights and wildlife on this 90 minute Lake Tour.

The colour of the water in Lake Mapourika is truly unique and reflects everything in a surreal mirror-like image and on clear days you can enjoy the breath-taking backdrop of Mt Cook. Make sure you keep an eye out for some of New Zealand’s rare native birds including Kotuku (White Heron) and New Zealand Wood Pigeon. While the fabulous array of bird life will delight visitors, the varied species of flora and fauna offers a special rich tapestry to your Franz Josef visit, including the Rata with its brilliant display of red flowers during January and February, Kamahi flowers, native Fuschia, Coprosmas, Clematis and magical rainforests. Lake Mapourika is also home to Brown Trout and Salmon. Due to the popularity of our lake cruises we encourage you to Make a Booking online to secure your preferred tour time.

Please also take a moment to view our Photo Gallery for breath-taking images of Lake Mapourika, while further information regarding our tours and Franz Josef can be found in our F.A.Q page. What do other people think of our eco-cruises? Check out their Testimonials.

Along with daily eco-cruises, Glacier Country Lake Tours also specialises in private charters and can assist with all aspects of your private on-board function for corporate or special family occasions. Speciality Private Charter trips include fishing, weddings, special occasion celebrations, staff appreciation, Christmas functions and much more! An event aboard the Hanna-K offers an original location with a unique backdrop - ideal for romantic gestures or VIP tours. Simply complete our Request a Quotation form outlining your private charter requirements and we will respond promptly.

Locally owned and operated, Glacier Country Lake Tours are also happy to provide tourist advice and information about The Wild West Coast and other New Zealand Information.

Please Contact Us with any questions you may have, alternatively you can send us an email directly to info@laketours.co.nz We also suggest you visit our Message Board area for the latest news about our eco-cruises and Franz Josef.

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Website editor - Rachael de Hek

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