Hotel and apartment accommodation throughout the West Coast region; view our selection of luxury self catering apartments, the ideal accommodation option for your Fox & Franz Josef Glacier, Tekapo holiday.

The narrow strip of land between the Tasman Sea and the mountains of the Southern Alps is known for the high levels of rainfall received by weather fronts arriving from Australia.  The harshness of the climate has created a unique landscape of lush rainforests, wild coastal rock formations and green pastures. 

It is in fact one of the only areas in the country where significant stretches of lowland forest remain.  Seen as a sort of time capsule, this area is how much of the country must have looked before human habitation 1000 years ago.  Two of the world’s most accessible glaciers are here, grinding their way through the forests in their relentless journey towards the sea.  The region boasts no less than five national parks which protect the environment for future generations.  The rivers of the West Coast are the only source of New Zealand’s precious pounamu (greenstone) which is made into jewellery and artworks of great beauty in the hands of expert carvers.  The rivers and lakes are also a rich source of brown trout and many happy hours can be spent in pursuit of this feisty fish.

West Coast accommodation, Lake Brunner and Franz Josef

For those en route to the spectacular West Coast why not stay in self catering accommodation. We have two options here.

Lake Brunner

Lake Brunner Apartments in Moana, Lake Brunner near the shores of the lake.  Stay here as a half way point on the way over from Christchurch to the Coast. This is also a great base for a fishing holiday, particularly for anglers in the pursuit of brown trout.

Franz Josef Glacier

In Franz Josef Glacier the Glenfern Villas, nestled in a quiet country setting, are just a short drive to the glacier.  These comfortable modern villas have private decks from which to view the stunning surrounding mountains and rainforest.

Only 3km North of the Franz Josef village, the luxury 2 bedroom chalet-style apartments at Franz Alpine Retreat are an excellent option for accommodation in Franz Josef Glacier.