Franz Josef and Fox Glacier - Land of the Smithii

The west coast of New Zealand's South Island is home to some of the world's most stunning scenery and untouched temperate rainforest. One of the more notable attractions are the 2 massive glaciers which wind their way down from the snowy mountains of the Southern Alps and it's here that we start our journey through the wonders of the South Island with our first forray outside of Christchurch.

Below is the view from our motel balcony as we wake up on the morning of our first day.

We are staying at Franz Josef Glacier's nearby village which is surrounded by rainforest dripping with ferns. This Dicksonia squarrosa arches skyward on a beautifully crisp, cold morning.

On our walk to see the glacier we pass many young Cyathea smithii growing on the banks of the path.

What we're really here to see is the stunning Franz Josef Glacier. One of the great things about New Zealand is not just how beautiful it is but how accessable. But the walk doesn't finish here!