NEW ZEALAND ~Westland Tai Poutini National Park - Franz Josef Glacier - UNESCO ~

...Stunning panoramic view of one of the most spectacular glaciers in the world...a natural wonder and immense slow moving river of ice (one inch a year) ..Thanks a lot Sabine!!

Photo: Bob Beresford Westland Tai Poutini National Park is located on the western coast of New Zealand's South Island. It was established in 1960 and  covers 1,175 km² and extends from the highest peaks of the Southern Alps to a wild and remote coastline.

Franz Josef Glacier is the steepest and fastest moving glacier in New Zealand. At 12 kilometer long, 2,600 meters high, this 7000 year old body of ice is sliding down a mountain valley into a rainforest. Franz Josef can be safely viewed from as close as 15 meters.The area surrounding the two glaciers is part of Te Wahipounamu, a World Heritage Site park.

Backside postcard:
A view looking south-east over the popular Franz Josef Glacier, named after an Australian King. In the distance, Mt Tasman an Mt Cook rise above the Southern Alps. A huge number of people walk to the base of the glacier, and even take guided trips up on it, but flying around the area is also a spectacular option.

Stamps:

Scenic Definitives
(Issued 09-05-2007)

Scenic Definitives
(Issued 04-08-2010)