Lake Mapourika Cruise and Kiwi Sanctuary Nature Walk | Franz Josef | Shaara Deals
A scenic cruise across Lake Mapourika followed by a guided rainforest walk through the Okarito Kiwi Conservation area, with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours on Shaara Deals from $149.
Lake Mapourika sits in a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Franz Josef, and Franz Josef Wilderness Tours pair a scenic cruise on its mirror-like waters with something few glacier-town operators offer: a guided walk through an active kiwi conservation area.
Surrounded by dramatic peaks and untouched rainforest, the lake cruise alone would be worth the trip, but the journey doesn't end on the water. After the cruise, you head into the exclusive rainforest trail within the Okarito Kiwi Conservation area, a track hand-built by skipper Dale and the team with conservation specifically in mind.
Into the rainforest
Stepping off the boat feels like entering another world. The trail winds through an untouched, Jurassic-feeling rainforest of towering kahikatea and rimu trees, some up to 1200 years old, to the sound of native birdsong. The region has recently gone predator-free, opening the door for endangered species to return.
Your skipper and guide share stories of the land alongside first-hand insight into the ongoing kiwi conservation work happening within this protected sanctuary. Keep an eye on the forest canopy for New Zealand bush birds, and along the shoreline for the rare white heron (kōtuku), since this is one of the few places in the country where you can encounter these graceful birds year-round.
Good to know before booking
The walking track is designed to keep the rainforest in its pristine state, being part of Westland National Park, so expect some uneven ground and a couple of steps at the start. Walking poles and guided assistance are provided, and if you're unsure whether the walk suits your ability, the operator is happy to discuss it beforehand. Children are considered 17 and under, and infants under 3 go free.
The essentials
- Deal: Lake Mapourika scenic cruise and Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary nature walk
- Price: From $149
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Location: Franz Josef, West Coast
- Merchant: Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
FAQs
Is the walk physically demanding?
There's some uneven ground and a few steps at the start, but walking poles and guided assistance are provided. Contact the operator if you're unsure about your ability level.
Will we actually see a kiwi?
The walk passes through an active kiwi conservation area with ongoing conservation work, though sightings of wildlife in the wild are never guaranteed. You will hear about the conservation efforts first-hand from your guide.
What's the age policy for children?
Children are considered 17 years and under, and infants under 3 go free.
Is this suitable year-round?
The rare white heron (kōtuku) can be seen along the shoreline year-round, making this one of the few places in New Zealand where that's possible.
Book the Lake Mapourika Cruise and Kiwi Sanctuary Nature Walk on Shaara Deals at https://shaaradeals.co.nz/deal/6a93c9dfccadc3c6e92ff51b and combine a scenic cruise with a genuine look at New Zealand's kiwi conservation work.
