Airport
Franz Josef Aerodrome (WHO)
Franz Josef Aerodrome is the main local gateway to Franz Josef township, Franz Josef Glacier, and the Westland Tai Poutini National Park area on New Zealand's West Coast. Compare transfer options to the township, glacier heliports, Fox Glacier, and other South Island destinations, and plan your onward journey with ease.
Passengers
Luggage
About Franz Josef Aerodrome
Franz Josef Aerodrome is a small scenic-flight and general aviation aerodrome serving Franz Josef township and the glacier region of New Zealand's West Coast. It is best known as the local departure point for scenic flights over Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and the Southern Alps.
Located approximately 4–5 km west of Franz Josef township, the aerodrome has a single compact passenger check-in and waiting area operated by scenic-flight and charter companies rather than large commercial terminals. It handles domestic flights and general aviation and does not have customs or immigration facilities.
State Highway 6 and local roads connect the aerodrome with Franz Josef township in only a few minutes by car, taxi, shuttle or private transfer. Hokitika, about 135 km to the north, provides the nearest larger airport for the West Coast region.
Facilities at the aerodrome are practical rather than extensive: check-in and waiting areas are provided through scenic-flight operators, and parking and aircraft fuel are available. Shops, cafés, accommodation and booking offices are located nearby in Franz Josef township.
Terminal Overview
Terminals
Franz Josef Aerodrome is a small, non-certificated aerodrome with a single compact passenger check-in and waiting area used by scenic-flight and general aviation operators, rather than separate domestic and international terminals.
Ground Transportation Services to and from Franz Josef Aerodrome
Transfers
Book private transfers from Franz Josef Aerodrome to hotels, lodges and other destinations in Franz Josef township and the surrounding glacier region.
Hourly Chauffeur
Arrange a professional chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from the aerodrome, sightseeing, meetings or journeys around Franz Josef and the West Coast.
Car Rental
Rent a car for independent travel from Franz Josef Aerodrome to Franz Josef Glacier, Fox Glacier and other Westland Tai Poutini National Park destinations.
Bus & Group Transfers
Organize minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Franz Josef Aerodrome, Franz Josef township, glacier activities, hotels and event venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Destinations
View all
Greymouth
Greymouth, the largest town on New Zealand's West Coast, blends gold-mining and coal-mining heritage with a rugged coastal setting at the mouth of the Grey River, gateway to Punakaiki and the glaciers.
Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand's harbour capital, squeezes a lively creative and culinary scene into a compact walkable centre, framed by steep green hills and the windy waters of Cook Strait.
Waikato
Waikato, a fertile North Island region, blends Māori heritage, rolling farmland, the Waikato River, and landmarks such as Hobbiton and Hamilton Gardens.
Tasman
Tasman is a relaxed coastal settlement in New Zealand's South Island, with a waterfront setting, nearby vineyards and easy access to the beaches and trails around Tasman Bay.