Waiho River in Franz Josef, New Zealand - Encircle Photos

15 Waiho River in Franz Josef, New Zealand

As State Highway 6 enters the town of Franz Josef from the north, it runs parallel to the braided Waiho River. This 16 mile, U-shaped valley is littered with polished rocks and sentiment left behind by the retreating Franz Josef Glacier. The water appears milky because of glacial till (grounded sediment). The village is officially named Franz Josef / Waiau. Most of its 350 residents cater to tourists via a gas station, hotels and restaurants. The main attraction is the 7,000 year old namesake glacier. Franz Josef Glacier is one of the largest and most accessible of New Zealand’s 3,155 glaciers.

VIEW MAP

Waiho River in Franz Josef, New Zealand

2964 Franz Josef Hwy, Franz Josef 7886, New Zealand

Directions

Share this Photo