Do you supply breakfast?
We can supply a continental breakfast that can be ordered the night before. Our town restaurants and cafes offer superb cooked breakfasts and can also provide packed lunches for your tour or walk.
Do you allow dogs at your motel?
Usually, pets and animals are not permitted at the Motel. Depending on the season, we may make an allowance, especially for hunting dogs. Prior approval needs to be sought before arrival.
We also suggest you read through the Department of Conservation’s policies on dogs within the Westland National Park.
Do we need cold weather gear?
Franz Josef is in a rainforest, which means it can be very wet. We suggest that you bring a good, all-seasons wet weather jacket. During the winter months of June through October, you should bring warm winter clothing.
Note: All the tour operators supply the correct clothing and footwear for their activities.
How far is the bus stop from your motel? Is there a taxi service or courtesy bus?
The coach and bus lines travelling to and from Franz Josef generally drop off and pick up passengers from their motels or hotels. The bus stops for heading north or south are in the main street approximately 5-6 minutes’ walk.
There is a shuttle bus service within the town that travels to the Glacier car park and back; this service will also pick up and drop off at other destinations within Franz and Fox Glaciers. All our bars and restaurants in town offer a “home safe” service and encourage a sober driver policy.
Are there playground facilities?
We don’t have playground facilities on-site. However, there are two playgrounds within the Township, just a short walk from the Motel.
There are ongoing developments within the Franz Josef Community to improve and provide more public amenities for our visitors.
Where can we fish around Franz Josef?
There are several great fishing areas around Franz Josef.
Lake Mapourika is one, and several of the rivers and creeks offer some excellent sport. However, you must have a licence to fish in the rivers and lakes; purchasable at the Service Station or any of the West Coast information centres.
Fishing off the West Coast beaches is free, and Okarito is a superb spot for fishing; you can fish off the wharf if you don’t want to get your feet wet, or surf cast from the beach. There are also some good areas for rock fishing; it is advisable if fishing off the rocks you use a life jacket.
Every February, Lake Mapourika hosts its fishing contest — a 3-day event with lots of prizes and the opportunity to mix and mingle with the local fishermen and learn their secrets (plenty of beer is required to extract this fruitful information). We have seen the numbers of participants in the contest rise steadily with each passing year!
What childcare facilities are available in Franz Josef?
We have a playgroup that operates Monday and Friday mornings at our local Community Centre.
Other than that, the answer is none. However, some parents within the Town are happy to look after children while parents are on guided walks or tours.
We may also be able to arrange a babysitting service while you are dining.
Note: if you think you may need this type of service, it is best to let us know before your arrival so we can make prior booking arrangements.
We welcome all questions and concerns. If you have a question that's not in this list, then please contact us and we'll help.
Make Your Booking Today
We have 16 units available. We have Studios, King Studios, Spa Studios, and for families and groups, we have spacious one or two bedroom apartments.
Reserve your room today, and come relax amidst snow-capped mountains and experience our lively restaurants and watering holes in the village.