This national park is part of the South Westland World Heritage area and
is famous for its two glaciers, Franz Josef and Fox glaciers. They are
unique as they are the closest glaciers to the coastline of any in the
world outside of the polar regions. This means they are not only
accessible, but the climate is much warmer compared to other glacial
sites in the world. The park is also covered in a lush ancient rain
forest and is backed by steep cliffs and mountains.
It seems like a contradiction when viewing the glaciers from a rain
forest, and it is this phenomenon that makes this area geologically
unique. The rugged coastline is a short drive away and there are some
great views of the glaciers and mountains reflecting in some of the lakes
in the area. Westland National Park also has many activities on offer
including treks on the glaciers, or you could try a helicopter ride up
to the top of the Southern Alps, a mountain range bigger in area than
the European Alps. If you want nature and spectacular scenery, and you
don't mind the likely possibility of rain, then Westland National Park
is a must see.
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