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Te Waonui Forest Retreat

3 Wallace Street, State Highway 6
Rated 8.7 in 242 reviews

Te Waonui Forest Retreat is nestled in the heart of Franz Josef, New Zealand, offering an immersive experience in one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. Surrounded by lush rainforest, this hotel provides a unique and serene getaway that prioritizes harmony with the environment. The retreat is designed with eco-friendly principles, ensuring that guests enjoy luxury accommodation with minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

The architecture and design of Te Waonui Forest Retreat integrate seamlessly with the natural surroundings, featuring natural timber finishes and earthy tones. This aesthetic extends to its well-appointed rooms, which are thoughtfully furnished to enhance comfort while maintaining a strong connection to the natural world outside. Large windows and private balconies allow guests to soak in the verdant views and the sound of native birdlife.

Dining at Te Waonui is a memorable experience, with a focus on locally sourced and organic ingredients. The on-site restaurant offers a menu that celebrates New Zealand's culinary heritage, complemented by an extensive selection of regional wines.

Te Waonui Forest Retreat is ideal for travelers who seek tranquility and a deep connection with nature, without sacrificing modern comfort. The location provides easy access to the area's natural wonders, including the famous Franz Josef Glacier. Guests can explore numerous walking trails or partake in guided tours to gain a deeper understanding of the region's unique geology and ecology.

The staff at Te Waonui Forest Retreat are known for their warm hospitality, offering personalized service that enhances the overall experience. Whether for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, this hotel provides a perfect balance of luxury and nature.

Climate and Weather

January
 21°
 9°
 16°
 6
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
February
 21°
 9°
 16°
 6
Sun hours / day
 8
Rain free days
March
 20°
 8°
 15°
 5
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
April
 18°
 6°
 14°
 4
Sun hours / day
 10
Rain free days
May
 15°
 3°
 13°
 4
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
June
 13°
 2°
 12°
 3
Sun hours / day
 7
Rain free days
July
 12°
 1°
 11°
 3
Sun hours / day
 8
Rain free days
August
 13°
 2°
 11°
 4
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
September
 15°
 4°
 12°
 5
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
October
 17°
 6°
 13°
 6
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days
November
 19°
 8°
 14°
 6
Sun hours / day
 10
Rain free days
December
 20°
 9°
 15°
 6
Sun hours / day
 9
Rain free days

What to do in Franz Josef and near Te Waonui Forest Retreat

St James Church
St James Church
New Zealand Anglican church
0.7km / 0.43mi
Franz Josef Wildlife Center
Franz Josef Wildlife Center
Kiwi breeding facility at Franz Josef, New Zealand
210m / 230yd
Our Lady of the Alps
Our Lady of the Alps
Catholic church in Franz Josef, New Zealand
0.5km / 0.34mi
Three Mile Beach
Three Mile Beach
Beach near Ōkārito, New Zealand
15.3km / 9.5mi
Five Mile Beach
Beach in New Zealand
14.5km / 9mi
Waiho Beach
Beach at the mouth of the Waiho River, Westland, New Zealand
14.8km / 9.2mi
Sandfly Beach
Beach in New Zealand
14.9km / 9.3mi
Moonlight Beach
Beach in the Westland District, New Zealand
16.1km / 10mi
Our Lady of the Snows
Our Lady of the Snows
Catholic church in Fox Glacier, New Zealand
16.5km / 10.3mi
Reynolds Beach
River beach in New Zealand
21.5km / 13.4mi
Galway Beach
Beach in New Zealand
23.6km / 14.7mi
Gillespies Beach
Gillespies Beach
Beach in South Westland, New Zealand
29.9km / 18.6mi

About Franz Josef

Franz Josef, New Zealand, is known for its stunning natural landscapes and unique experiences. One of the best activities is exploring the Franz Josef Glacier itself. Guided glacier hikes provide an opportunity to walk on the ice, experience the breathtaking scenery, and learn about glacial formations. For those seeking a different perspective, helicopter tours offer aerial views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, allowing you to appreciate the scale of the landscape.

Another popular option is the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools. After a day of exploring, relaxing in these natural hot pools can be a soothing way to unwind while surrounded by lush rainforest. For those interested in local wildlife, a visit to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park offers numerous walking tracks where you might spot native birds and unique flora.

Additionally, the scenic walks around the area are worth considering. The Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk leads you through the beautiful landscape to a viewpoint of the glacier, providing a relatively easy trek with rewarding views. For a more challenging experience, the Alex Knob Track offers a more strenuous hike with panoramic views of the glacier and the surrounding area.

Lastly, taking the time to explore the small township of Franz Josef can also be enjoyable. Local cafes and shops provide a taste of the region's culture, and engaging with the community can enhance your experience. Overall, Franz Josef offers a blend of adventure and relaxation in a truly picturesque setting.




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