Franz Josef Travel Guide
New Zealand
Franz Josef is a small settlement of 315 people on New Zealand’s South Island, on the country’s west coast. It is a compact base for exploring this part of the Westland region, with a remote coastal setting and access to nearby beaches.
Travellers arriving by air can use Franz Josef Airport, also known by the code WHO. The nearest named beaches are around 14.5 to 16.1 kilometres away, including Five Mile Beach, Waiho Beach, Sandfly Beach, Three Mile Beach and Moonlight Beach. Further options include Scotties Beach and Reynolds Beach, both 21.5 kilometres away, and Galway Beach, 24.3 kilometres away.
Local time
Population
Know before you go
Pays in NZD
Plug type Type I (UK adapter needed)
Emergency 111
Dial code +64
Tipping: Tipping is not customary in New Zealand, and service staff are generally paid a living wage. It is not expected, but a small gesture for exceptional service is always appreciated.
Best time to visit Franz Josef
Jan
20°15Feb
19°14Mar
17°16Apr
16°16May
14°15Jun
12°13Jul
12°14Aug
11°15Sep
12°22Oct
14°23Nov
16°19Dec
18°21Average daily maximums with rainy days per month, from the last three years of weather history.
Beaches near Franz Josef
Five Mile Beach
14.5 km away
Waiho Beach
14.7 km away
Sandfly Beach
14.7 km away
Three Mile Beach
15.7 km away
Moonlight Beach
16.1 km away
Scotties Beach
21.5 km away
Reynolds Beach
21.5 km away
Galway Beach
24.3 km away
Things to do in Franz Josef
St James Anglican Church
anglican or episcopal place of worship
0.9 km
Fox Glacier Lookout
historic site
0.6 km
Franz Josef Cinema
movie theater
0.5 km
Nelson Lakes National Park
national park
0.7 km
0.5 km
Te Koha Gallery
art gallery
0.7 km
Franz Joseph NZMCA Park
park
0.2 km
Getting there
Franz Josef Airport · 0 km
Frequently asked Questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.