Tours and Tickets by Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Small-Group Kayak Adventure from Franz Josef Glacier
Hidden beneath the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps on New Zealand’s South Island, shimmering Lake Mapourika is widely considered the jewel in Westland’s crown. Using Franz Joseph as a base, take to the water with your guide. With all equipment provided, stay warm and dry, and discover a world of native tree and bird life on the lakeside. High-quality digital photos are provided with each tour.
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3 hours
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Review of: 2-Hour Scenic Cruise in Lake Mapourika
Wonderful 2 hours spent on Lake Mapourika with the skilled Dale, exceptional views of the mountains reflected in the lake, wildlife spotting and Flax weaving by Dale. Well worth the money.
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Date of experience: June 2022
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This was a brilliant morning. Dale was a great guide, friendly and informative, all the kit was provided and we enjoyed kayaking across the lake and down a little creek. We even saw a white heron in flight! Then a walk on a special track through the sanctuary with some fascinating things like blue toadstools and a kiwi nest for a cup of coffee at the viewpoint, finally kayaking back. Dale took some great pictures for us. Strongly recommended, and although there was a little rain it didn't cause any problem.…
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Date of experience: May 2022
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Response from Franzjoseftours, Owner at Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Responded 2 weeks ago
Hello! Thanks so much for your positive review, we're glad you enjoyed the journey with Dale on the lake. You even got a bit of rain - which is a West Coast bonus haha! We hope to see you again sometime. Kind regards Bronwyn & Dale
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The best kayaking in town with the most amazing guide. We loved every minute and we will definitely be back in town the next time we visit!
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Response from Franzjoseftours, Owner at Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Responded 2 weeks ago
Hi Deanna We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the trip and you're guide so much. We look forward to the next time :) See you then! Bronwyn
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This trip was awesome, good group and Kylan was a brilliant guide. Super friendly and good to chat to, led the group well and really knew his stuff about the lake and the general area! Would definitely recommend 👍
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Date of experience: May 2022
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Response from Franzjoseftours, Owner at Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Responded 2 weeks ago
Hi Josh Thanks heaps for the great review! Kylan enjoyed paddling with you as well. All the best :) Bronwyn
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I read a few bad reviews about this activity, and they all were about bad weather. No one can control the weather, and likewise, our cruise was hit by pretty bad weather. The rain didn't stop and at one point we said no to the forest walk as the rain was so heavy. We couldn't see any of the mountains. But I will NEVER say it was a bad trip. The skipper was amazing and gave us a very detailed description of the place. Even in that weather, it was an amazing experience overall - the cruise was great, the company was great, the skipper was knowledgeable, the weather was romantic, and the walk was wet which gave an even better feel of the rainforest. I couldn't find anything to complain about the whole trip. I will highly recommend the activities and, for sure, will go back to kayak and fish in the lake.…
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Date of experience: April 2022
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Response from Franzjoseftours, Owner at Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Responded 2 weeks ago
Hello! Thanks so much for your wonderful review, it's really nice to get some feedback about our trips on wet weather days! Our lake beholds beauty rain or shine and we're happy to hear that Jake your skipper took you on a memorable adventure. All the best! Bronwyn
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