Unser Fritz Falls

 

Unser Fritz Falls

The highest waterfall in Franz Josef Glacier Valley, Unser Fritz Falls is found at the end of the walk path which leads to Franz Josef Glacier. Consider a scenic flight if you wish to get the best view of the waterfall.

Driving and walking conditions

GPS of the view point: S 43° 27' 32.2626" E 170° 10' 1.743"
Parking: Franz Josef Glacier Road, Franz Josef Glacier
Vehicle type: All vehicle types Track type: Walking track
Road type: Sealed Return track duration: 1hr 30min

Waterfall parameters

Waterfall height: 105m Type of the waterfall: Segmented

Rating:       ⭐⭐⭐
GPS:          S 43° 27' 32.2626" E 170° 10' 1.743"
Parking:     Franz Josef Glacier Road, Franz Josef Glacier
Access:     1hr 30min return walk


Walking and driving instructions

 

Unser Fritz Falls is roughly a 10-minutes' drive away from Franz Josef Village, or 2-hours’ from Hokitika. The road surface is always sealed.

From Franz Josef Village head south on the SH-6, then, immediately past the bridge over the Waiho River, turn left into Franz Josef Glacier Rd and follow it for the next 3.5 km. The carpark is at the end of Franz Josef Glacier Rd. There are picnic tables and toilets there.

From the parking follow the popular Franz Josef Glacier Walk (you don't need to pay for it). You'll see the falls on the on the right hand side at the end of the track. Return via the same track.

Actually, waterfall is seen from a distance almost at the beginning of the track (15 minutes from parking). The water drop near beginning of the glacier. But the better view is available from the lookout area at the end of the track.

A closer approach used to be possible via a Guided Franz Josef Glacier half day/full day walk. Sadly, due to the changing environment it’s not the case anymore. The best photos can be taken/the best view approached by a helicopter. 


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Rating:       ⭐
Access:     5min return walk
Driving:   1 m (1 min)

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Trident Creek Falls

Rating:       ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Access:     1hr  return walk
Driving:   0.8 km (1 min)

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Rope Creek Cascades

Rating:       ⭐
Access:     1hr 15min return walk
Driving:   1 m (1 min)

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Lemmer Peak Warerfall

Rating:       ⭐⭐
Access:     1hr 15min return walk
Driving:   1 m (1 min)

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