What to Do When It Rains in Franz Josef
If you’re visiting Franz Josef Glacier and the rain starts to fall — good news, you’re in exactly the right place.
Rain is part of the magic here on the West Coast. With over 200 days of rainfall each year, the lush rainforest, mirror-like lakes, and ancient rivers owe their beauty to the downpours. As we like to say: “No rain, no rainforest.”
So when the clouds roll in, don’t hide away — here’s our ultimate list of rainy-day activities in Franz Josef, starting with the best wet-weather fun you’ll find anywhere in Glacier Country.
Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Kayak, cruise or fish with us on the beautiful Lake Mapourika.
Rain or shine – we’re ready.
Lake Mapourika transforms into something even more special in the rain. With mist clinging to the rainforest and ripples across the dark waters, it feels like paddling through a real-life movie scene.
We offer:
Guided kayak tours through ancient Jurassic rainforest
Covered scenic cruises on our comfortable tour boat
Fishing charters on trout- and salmon-filled waters
Worried about getting wet? Don’t be — we provide full wet-weather gear, jackets, dry bags, and even free photos so you can focus on the experience.
Fun fact: Light drizzle often means better chances for a trout on the line!
Ready to Revv up the Fun Off-Road?
Our Off-Road Quad Bike & Buggy Adventures take the phrase “the wetter, the better” to heart!
Rain turns the rainforest tracks and glacial riverbeds into the ultimate playground. Splash through puddles, climb muddy terrain, and embrace the wild with full wet-weather suits, boots, and gloves provided.
Whether you’re riding solo, doubling up on a two-seater quad, or taking the whole crew in a buggy — this is the West Coast at its raw, rugged best.
As with all our tours, full wet weather is provided to keep everyone warm and dry. Enjoy the mud, rain and puddles and keep your clothes dry! Just look at this splash:
Tip: Booking in advance is recommended! Spaces fill up quickly on rainy days.
Soak in the Waiho Hot Tubs
Steamy solitude in the rain.
There’s no better place to be on a rainy day than soaking in a private wood-fired hot tub in the middle of a rainforest. The Waiho Hot Tubs offer 60-minute sessions, with crystal-clear mountain water refilled after each soak.
Each tub has dry storage and shelter for your gear, and the rain on the leaves above only adds to the atmosphere. Book ahead — spots go fast on wet days.
Spaces fill up fast on rainy days in Franz Josef! Visit Waiho Hot Tubs to book or enquire.
Explore on Foot with Glacier Valley Eco Tours
Waterfalls, wildlife and real West Coast nature.
Join a small group nature walk with the passionate local guides at Glacier Valley Eco Tours. They offer everything from short family-friendly strolls to full-day adventures — and their wet-weather tours are a peaceful way to explore valleys, rivers, and waterfalls free from crowds and helicopters.
Stop to sip tea under a canopy, hunt for fungi, hold glacial ice, or spot rare birds. No rush, no stress — just pure nature.
For more information and bookings visit Glacier Valley Eco Tours
Carve Your Own Greenstone at Te Koha Jade Carving
Create a true taonga on a rainy day.
Embrace a hands-on cultural experience with a pounamu carving workshop hosted by Mike and Jan Goodall. Held on their authentic West Coast farm studio, these classes are a peaceful, creative way to spend a rainy afternoon.
You’ll be guided through the carving process and take home your own one-of-a-kind piece of jade — a treasure from Aotearoa you’ll never forget.
For more information and visit Te Koha Jade Carving
Visit the West Coast Wildlife Center
Meet NZ’s rarest kiwi, rescued little blue penguins and tuatas – all indoors!
Rainy days are perfect for visiting this all-weather, family-friendly conservation centre. The West Coast Wildlife Centre is home to New Zealand’s rarest kiwi, the rowi, and offers a range of interactive exhibits and live animal viewing. They also have a new penguin viewing facility, with many rescued blue penguins. Or take a look at New Zealand’s tuatara in their indoor enclosure.
Don’t miss the Backstage Pass Tour to learn how the centre is helping to save native species. Open daily from 8am.
For more information and bookings visit The West Coast Wildlife Center
Don’t Let a Little Rain Hold You Back
Some of the most atmospheric and memorable moments in Franz Josef happen when it’s wet. Misty forests, moody lakes, splashing quads and steaming hot tubs — that’s the West Coast way.
Whether you’re adventuring with us on Lake Mapourika, revving through puddles on a quad bike, or soaking in a forest tub, Franz Josef delivers the goods — rain or shine.
Looking for even more ideas? Check out the official Glacier Country New Zealand’s for more local adventures.
