Fox Glacier Trade Marketing Brochure

Page 1

Proud to guide you 1 october 2007

q 30 september 2008


Introducing

Fox Glacier Guiding

Guiding on Fox Glacier came alive in 1928, when the Fox Hotel, under the proprietorship of Mary Kerr, first offered guided trips onto the glacier. These continued until 1974, when Mike Browne took over. Mike and Carrol Browne grew the business steadily over the next 31 years, and in 2005 additional shareholders joined the business, which helped shape Fox Glacier Guiding into the vibrant, dedicated and professional business it is today, with over 60 staff. Whilst we’ve grown and evolved, you’ll find we haven’t lost that ‘family’ feel. Come and experience our friendliness and hospitality for yourself. Remember as you go onto the glacier, you’re on an adventure which started almost 100 years ago!

Why you should choose

Fox Glacier Guiding

DEEPER

O Less crowded... We are privileged to be operating in a World Heritage Area. Our aim is to provide an intimate and special experience, so we guide fewer people on the glacier.

Fox Glacier

Other local glacier

O Bigger is better... The longest West Coast glacier at 13 kms, with a massive nevé the size of Christchurch city!

13km

O Less distant...

Fox Glacier 1/2 hr

The walk to the Fox Glacier terminal face takes just 30 minutes. For the other local glacier, the walk takes just under an hour.

O Mountain views... The only West Coast glacier with views of Aoraki (Mt Cook) and Mt Tasman. (From the Heli-Hike).

O More affordable... This natural wonder should be accessible to all travellers alike. We price accordingly!

he

rl

oc

al

gl

ac

We cater for a range of fitness abilities. Because the gradient on Fox Glacier is less steep, our full and 1⁄2 day walkers find Fox Glacier less physically demanding.

Ot

ie

r

O Less steep...

Fox Gla

DIG

cier

Great Training.

All guides are either qualified or in training for Glacier Guides certification, through the internationally recognized New Zealand Mountain Guides Association (NZMGA). This means we offer the highest level of safety, a key part of our commitment to providing safe, enjoyable, high quality trips onto Fox Glacier.

1.5 km 2.5 km Other local glacier 1 hr

Superb views

Fox Glacier

Other local glacier

O Privately owned and operated... Because we are privately owned we are passionate about offering you the best glacier experience. Privately owned

Traditions

worth preserving ...

The buses we use to transport customers to Fox Glacier are a nice link to the past. They are preserved and restored Bedford’s, and are a reminder of the original Newman’s coaches which took visitors to the glacier in 1922. Our buses have names too, and there is a story behind those. Ask our friendly staff.


Our Team At Fox Glacier Guiding, we work hard to try to create an environment where our people love to come to work. It’s a family kind of environment and although we work hard, we also have a lot of fun. We’re a close knit team, working together in a small town and we’re passionate about the product we deliver and the environment we work and play in. We consider that happy staff makes for happy customers and we try to make our friendly, down to earth, service experience a point of difference for our business. Here are some photos to introduce you to some of the team.

02


Adventures...

Fox Glacier

what an eiffel! It’s difficult for the casual observer to appreciate how truly massive Fox Glacier is. At 13kms long, and reaching a height of 2,800m it dwarfs structures such as the 324m Eiffel Tower (superimposed).

M  ALPINE fox m

See Pg 10

M  browne fox m

See Pg 9

M  flying fox m

See Pg 6

M  fox it up m

See Pg 8

M  the nimble fox m

See Pg 5

M  fox trot m

See Pg 4

M  fox trail m

See Pg 7

7

Mountaineering Trips

6

Chancellor Dome Trips

3

The Heli-Hike

Ice Climbing Adventure

5 2

All-Day Glacier Walk

1

Half-Day Glacier Walk

DIG DEEPER Fox facts at a glance: S 13kms from the

main divide to the terminal face S Nevé – 30 square kms S Glacier depth – up to 350m S Glacier terminates at 250m above sea level S 35-45m of snow fall per year

4

Terminal Face Walk


M  fox trot m 1

Half-Day Glacier Walk:

For those with a half-day available this popular trip is a great eco-adventure and full of variety and interest. Walkers are kitted out with sturdy leather boots and other equipment, before boarding one of our historic buses for the short drive through the rainforest and into the glacial valley. This valley was carved out by the ice during past ice ages and shows dramatic evidence of the power of the ice. Your guide leads you on a walk beside the river bed to our secret track which zig-zags slowly uphill for thirty minutes through ferns and regenerating temperate rainforest. From high on the track you enjoy fantastic views of the glacier and its upper and lower icefalls. From its high point, the track winds down to the edge of the ice. At this point you are outfitted with instep crampons, specially designed for these ice conditions, and you follow the ice steps cut by the guides. The route takes you onto the ice amongst crevasses and ice ridges and leads you onto the middle of the glacier for spectacular views of the icefall and lower glacier. At least one hour is spent on the ice and, depending on glacial conditions, you will return to the bus using either the same secret track or a different track that follows the edge of the ice. Your guide will be with you for the duration of the trip and will enjoy passing on fascinating details of the natural history of this landscape. Access to the ice varies as the glacier changes and alternative routes may sometimes be used.

O Trip information... fitness level moderate

Moderate fitness and agility is required. Involves steady, well-graded, uphill walking for 30 minutes. DURation 4 hrs reporting time 9.05am / 1.35pm (ALL year) 10.05am / 2.35pm (on demand in summer season) Closed christmas day Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) adults $85.00 children $49.00 (7-16 years incl.) family $219.00 (max 2 ad, 2 ch)

Cost includes: guide, ground transport, boots and socks, crampons, waterproof raincoat and over trousers, alpenstock. O Please bring... 3-4 layers of warm upper body clothing, sunglasses and sun protection. Jeans are not recommended on wet days. A day pack is useful and a drink and snacks are a good idea. Your own boots and raincoats may be suitable. For winter trips bring a warm hat and gloves. O Special notes & conditions... Minimum age for children is 7 years. For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.

“My hike through the rainforest to Fox Glacier with Fox Glacier Guiding was one of the highlights of my life. They were well equipped and knowledgeable, as well as very safety conscious.” Entwisle, Elliott & Dougherty, USA

04


M  the nimble fox m 2

All-Day Glacier Walk:

Spend a day exploring the fascinating ice features and majestic pinnacles of the longest West Coast glacier. Approach the glacier through a rainforest which offers breathtaking glacier views and fantastic photo opportunities, overlooking the undulating iceflow, where you will soon be venturing. Outfitted with crampons specially designed for Fox’s seasonal ice conditions you will enjoy trekking to a high point of the glacier which overlooks towering ice pinnacles, and spectacular seracs. This dramatic terrain is where the glacier is moving up to two metres a day and your guide can point out various features as you navigate your way through it following fresh ice steps cut by your guide. The knowledge passed on from your guide will allow you to learn and understand just how this mighty glacier makes its long journey down the Fox valley. Relax over lunch in a special place and then spend more time exploring the ever changing world of ice in relative peace and isolation. A very memorable day out.

O Trip information... fitness level good

Good level of fitness and agility required. DURation 6-7 hrs reporting time 9.20am (ALL year) 10.20am (on demand in summer season) closed christmas day Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) adults $125.00 (min 13 yrs)

Cost includes: guide, ground transport, boots and socks, crampons, waterproof raincoat and overtrousers, alpenstock, woollen hat and mittens (in winter months). O Please bring... 3-4 layers of warm upper body clothing (jeans are not recommended on wet days). A day pack, lunch, a drink, sunglasses and sun protection. Your own boots and raincoat may be suitable. O Special notes & conditions... As our groups are kept small (12 people per guide), these trips fill up quickly and booking is advised. For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.

“Our guide was fantastic! Just wanted to compliment him on his style, information and general respect of the nature of the glacier. We appreciated the time and attention to detail he provided e.g. how concerned he was with remembering our names and his concerns for everyone’s safety. Altogether a memorable trip!!” Andrew & Abby, Australia


M  flying fox m 3

The Heli-Hike:

The fly-in, fly-out Heli-Hike combines the excitement of walking on the Fox Glacier with the thrill of helicopter flights. By flying in you are able to access and explore a part of the glacier where its forces work hardest and often create spectacular ice caves and arches. Equipped with sturdy leather boots and other equipment, you board the helicopter for your first flight over the pinnacles of the lower icefall. Here, the ice is in constant motion. You then circle the upper icefall and Victoria Falls before landing. Your landing site on the ice is a remote and exceptionally beautiful part of the glacier. At this stage, your guide outfits you with crampons, specially designed for these ice conditions and you follow the ice steps cut by your guide as you explore the amazing ice formations. Each departure is a true voyage of exploration. There are so many changing features that the guides always find something new. Weather permitting, ice time is about 2.5 hours. Please note that this is a natural and ever changing environment. Ice features change constantly and no guarantee can be given that specific features will be seen. This is a weather dependant trip.

O Trip information... fitness level moderate

Some fitness and agility is required. DURation 4 hrs reporting time 8.50am / 11.50am (ALL year) 2.50pm (on demand in summer season) closed christmas dAY Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) adults $330.00 children $310.00 (9-16 years incl.)

Cost includes: two helicopter flights, guide, ground transport, leather boots, socks, crampons. O Please bring... 3-4 layers of warm upper body clothing (jeans are not recommended on wet days), sunglasses and sun protection. A day pack is useful and a drink and snacks are nice to have. For winter trips bring a warm hat and gloves. O Special notes & conditions... As these trips fill up quickly, particularly in the summer season, booking in advance is strongly advised. Minimum age for children is 9 years. For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.

“A big ‘THANK YOU’ to everyone at Fox Glacier Guiding for continuing to provide exhilarating ice adventures on Fox Glacier. I can say with absolute certainty that you are by far the best activity oriented company I’ve come across during numerous years of travel across the globe.” Debbie Cashmore, UK

06


M  fox trail m 4

O Trip information...

Terminal Face Walk:

This is an informative and leisurely trip to the dynamic face of the glacier. It is here that the Fox River emerges from the ice and where ice collapses are often heard and seen. This trip is for people with limited time or for those who would find the walks onto the glacier too strenuous. Although you will not walk on the glacier, your guide will take you to visit the final resting place of ice that has travelled 13 kilometres from the base of the Southern Alps, all the way to the river valley floor. Your guide may take you closer to the ice than the unguided public (if it is safe to do so at the time) and you will have the opportunity to learn the role of the Fox Glacier in shaping its environment. This two hour trip is reasonably easy going. About one and a half hours is spent walking over gentle terrain at a speed that almost anyone can manage. There is a strong focus on providing you with quality interpretation so you can learn about the glacier and the surrounding environment. It is usually possible to view the cave at the terminal face of the ice from which the Fox River emerges.

fitness level low

Suitable for almost anyone. DURation 2 hrs reporting time 4.50pm (october – mid april) 2.20pm (winter months) closed christmas day Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) adults $45.00 children $25.00 (5-16 years incl.)

Cost includes: guide, ground transport, boots and socks, raincoat. O Please bring... Gear for your own personal warmth. O Special notes & conditions... For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.

“From all the experiences we had in the 18 day tour of NZ this was one of the best... It was a fantastic experience that I am sure none of us will ever forget.” Melissa Beales, Australia


M  fox it up m 5

O Trip information... fitness level good

Ice Climbing Adventure:

This day long experience introduces the adventurous to the exhilarating sport of ice climbing, on the spectacular ice walls in the lower part of the Fox Glacier. Your professional guide will tailor the day to offer variety and challenge to the novice and expert alike. Before heading to the ice you will be equipped with specialised mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axes and technical gear. Guides who instruct on these days receive special training to ensure they teach skills in the correct order so you advance quickly. You will be surprised by the quick progress that you make. The maximum guide to customer ratio is 1:4 ensuring that you receive close personal attention. There are many steep walls to challenge you and you will quickly master basic cramponing and ice axe techniques. The adrenaline will start to flow as you challenge yourself with longer and steeper pitches. Using ice tools and the front points of your crampons, you climb vertical and at times, overhanging ice walls and pinnacles. Your movements may seem quite daunting initially but there is no danger, as at all times you are secured by a top rope attached to your harness. This adventure will be an experience you never forget and may just inspire you to spend time in the mountains.

Heli-Ice Climbing: On this trip you will enjoy a small guide to customer ratio (max 1:4) and ice climbing instruction in a remote and spectacular area of the glacier. This trip is an extension of the standard ice climbing day as it offers the added thrill of two helicopter flights as well as the opportunity to climb amongst dramatic terrain not easily accessed by foot.

Good level of fitness and agility required. No previous experience is necessary. DURation 8-9 hrs reporting time 8.00am (ALL year) closed christmas day Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) ice climbing adventure adults $215.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: guide, transport, modern technical and safety equipment, climbing boots and socks, special backpacks, waterproof raincoats and over trousers, hats and gloves. Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) heli-ice climbing adventure adults $559.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: All the equipment described above plus two helicopter flights. All other details and conditions as per ice climbing adventure above. O Please bring... Warm clothing including long sleeved tops and trousers (jeans are not recommended), lunch, drink, sunglasses, sun protection. O Special notes & conditions... As these trips fill up quickly it is advisable to book several days in advance. For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.

“...our ice climbing trip was a highlight of our holidays and threatens to become a highlight of our lives...” Kelly & Martin, Australia

08


M  browne fox m 6

Chancellor Dome Heli-Trek:

This has to be one of New Zealand’s finest days in the mountains. It starts with a thrilling flight by helicopter, over magnificent rainforest and ice pinnacles, into the valley of the Fox Glacier. Your helipad is at 1,270m (4,000ft), on Chancellor Shelf, just above historic Chancellor Hut. In season, this area is rich in flowering alpine plants and the mountain antelope, Chamois, can frequently be seen. From Chancellor Hut, the route ascends through snowgrass basins to a spot where a glorious view of Mt Tasman appears. Here your guide will organise you for a safe ascent of the gully. This gully gives access to a broad ridge and a beautiful snow shelf below the summit of Chancellor Dome. A highlight is the final ascent to the summit at 2,004m (6,526ft). This climb, takes you to the point that affords the best view of the Southern Alps highest peaks and the magnificent snowfields that feed the Fox Glacier. To the West, you see the surf of the Tasman Sea breaking on Gillespies Beach. After a relaxing lunch you descend to the hut, enjoy a brew and fly down the glacier back to Fox Glacier township. As an introduction to mountaineering, this trip cannot be surpassed. Please note: This is a mountain trip with helicopter access, not a helihike on the glacier and is weather dependant.

Chancellor Dome ( Overnight) Heli-Trek: DAY ONE The first day of this trip is essentially the same as the Chancellor Dome Heli-Trek described above, except in that you do not fly back to Fox township at the end of the day. Instead, you relax in the tussock by Chancellor Hut and drink a glass of wine, while your guide prepares dinner and watch the spectacular sunset on the Tasman Sea below. DAY TWO Depending on your interests and fitness, you have two options on this day. You can explore the fantastic alpine gardens and waterfalls of the Chancellor Shelf, where there is a good chance of viewing chamois (mountain antelope), kea (nestor nontabilis), the world’s only mountain parrot and, in season, the glorious great mountain buttercup (Ranunculus lyallii) and mountain daisy (Celmisia coriacia). A more adventurous option is to descend through the alpine vegetation zones to the glacier. The ice features of Victoria Flat on the Fox Glacier, can then be explored before the helicopter arrives to return you back to the Fox Glacier township. This is a truly magnificent and complete experience – climb a mountain, explore a glacier, overnight in a historic hut and feel the moods of the mountains.

“We can honestly say this was one of the best trips we have undertaken, not only here in New Zealand, but anywhere. Our guide not only guided us at a cool pace, but demonstrated culinary skills Jamie Oliver would be proud of!” Tony & Sarah, UK

O Trip information... fitness level good

A good level of fitness and agility is required. No prior mountaineering experience is necessary. DURation 8-9 hrs / 2 days reporting time 7.45am (1 October – 31 May. Dependant on snow conditions) closed christmas day Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) chancellor dome heli-trek adults $559.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: Two helicopter flights, guide, ground transport, technical equipment, boots and socks, waterproof raincoat and over trousers, gloves, hats, and packs if required. Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person) chancellor dome overnight heli-trek adults $829.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: Two helicopter flights, guide, ground transport, lunch and dinner on day one, breakfast and lunch on day two, technical equipment, hut fees, boots and socks, waterproof raincoat and over trousers, sleeping bag and liner, gloves, hats and packs if required. O Please bring... chancellor dome heli-trek

Lunch including drink, sunglasses, sun protection, 3 to 4 upper body layers with one being a long sleeved shirt, warm long trousers and camera. chancellor dome overnight heli-trek

Sunglasses, sun protection, 3 to 4 upper body layers with one being a long sleeved shirt, warm long trousers, camera, toiletries, change of clothes (we have some hire/loan equipment and a good range of reasonably priced mountain clothing in our shop). O Special notes & conditions... Of special interest to botanists: December and January are the best months for alpine flowers. It is often possible to book this trip at short notice, but to ensure guide availability, we advise booking at least one week in advance. For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.


M  alpine fox m 7

Mountaineering Adventures:

The Southern Alps of New Zealand are a wonderful mountaineering and ski-touring environment. Our mountain guides take pleasure in guiding clients into these areas and can offer a range of opportunities for beginners and experienced climbers or skiers. To ensure your safety, all of our mountain guides are qualified through the NZMGA (New Zealand Mountain Guides Association). Our staff can offer advice and tailor-make specialist climbing and ski-touring programs to suit individual abilities. These may range from single day trips to multi-day climbing programs. Dates are reasonably flexible, so contact us for quotes, availability and gear lists. The following are just some examples of the courses and trips that are available this season. For up to date trip schedules and further information clients are encouraged to visit our website www.foxguides.co.nz

Alpine Skills Course ( 3 days ) : This is an introductory program for those looking to learn the basic skills required for mountain travel. Based at Chancellor Hut, above Fox Glacier, you will spend one night in the hut and (depending on the weather) one night camping on the Fox néve. Course topics include: techniques for travelling on snow and ice, abseiling, rope systems, glacier travel, snow and ice anchors, navigation and mountain weather. An above average level of fitness is required. Knowledge of ice axe and crampon use is useful for this course.

Alpine Ascents Course (8 days ): This is an intense 8 days of instruction on all types of mountain terrain. You will develop solid, all-round mountaineering skills as a foundation for more mountaineering/climbing adventures. You will be based at Pioneer and/or Centennial Huts, at the tops of the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers respectively. A number of peaks may be attempted during the 8 days. Participants will learn about equipment, trip planning and preparation, living in mountain huts and snow shelters, knots and rope handling, glacier travel, cramponing and ice axe techniques, crevasse extraction, rock, snow and ice anchors, multi-pitch climbing, abseiling, ridge travel, route finding, navigation, avalanche awareness and mountain weather. Participants can expect long days in challenging terrain, weather and snow conditions. A high level of fitness is required with previous trekking and/or rock climbing experience recommended. Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person): adults $2995.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: NZMGA qualified guide, all technical equipment, helicopter flights in and out (note: many guiding companies do not include the cost of the flight out in their prices), accommodation, all meals and snacks.

Glacier Skills Introduction (3 days ): This is a 3 day course, offering participants the opportunity to learn mountaineering and ice climbing skills on the lower Fox Glacier. The course is designed for people wanting to learn steep ice climbing techniques, gear handling skills and good mountain practice. Skills covered include: what to look for when buying climbing gear, mountain weather, reading the ice ‘route selection’, setting up a top rope ice climb, modern ice climbing styles, lead climbing on ice, rescuing yourself and your climbing partner, glacier travel and crevasse rescue. Participants must organise their own accommodation and food. An average level of fitness is required, no experience necessary. Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person): adults $645.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: NZMGA qualified guide, all technical equipment.

Costs (NZ$ GST INCL. Per Person): adults $1295.00 (minimum 2 people)

Cost includes: NZMGA qualified guide, all technical equipment, helicopter flights in and out (note: many guiding companies do not include the cost of the flight out in their prices), accommodation, all meals and snacks.

O Special notes & conditions... For booking information and for our Refund & Cancellation Policy please refer to page 11 of this booklet.

“We have just completed the eight day course and we wanted to express our sincere thanks for making it such an outstanding outdoor adventure experience. We learnt plenty, achieved plenty and had an altogether intensely rewarding and enjoyable time.” Roger, Glenn & Archie, Australia

10


Our Booking, Refund & Cancellation Policy We operate in a very changeable alpine environment. Accordingly, it is important to understand that our trips may vary from the descriptions given and may have to be cancelled from time to time due to natural events. Glacier walking is an all weather activity. Except in the event of extreme weather or adverse environmental conditions, our walking trips invariably take place. The exception to this is the Heli-Hike and other trips which rely on helicopter flights. These trips are more often affected by the weather and subject to cancellation if flying conditions are not good on the day. Our policy in respect of bookings, cancellations and refunds is set out below. O Confirming your booking

By Email or Fax When you make a booking by email or fax, you must send us your credit card details to confirm your booking. In order to secure your booking, you must pay us a 50% deposit, which we charge to your credit card. When you arrive in Fox Glacier to take your trip with us, you are then required to pay us the remaining 50% of the cost of the trip. By Telephone To confirm a booking with us, you need to give us your credit card number as security for your booking. With the exception of Ice Climbing and Heli- Ice Climbing, Chancellor Heli-Treks and Mountaineering Trips (where we take a deposit of 50% of the cost of the trip from your card) we do not process the credit card transaction until you have checked in with us on the day of departure of your trip. By giving us your credit card number, you should be aware that you are authorizing us to charge any cancellation fee set out in this policy, to your card. Our Contact Details RESERVATIONS Tel +64 3 751 0825 Fax +64 3 751 0857 Freephone 0800 111 600 (inside New Zealand) Email info@foxguides.co.nz Web www.foxguides.co.nz Mail PO Box 38, Fox Glacier, New Zealand

The Wild West Coast: The rain adds a new dimension to your glacier experience – dramatic, exciting and unforgettable!

O Cancelling your booking

Because of the high demand and limited space available on our trips, the following cancellation policy is strictly applied. You may cancel your booking with us and receive a full refund, provided you give us the appropriate period of notice. The appropriate period of notice is as follows and differs, depending on which trip you have booked with us: Trip

No cancellation fee payable if:

Cancellation fee of 50% of cost of trip payable if:

Cancellation fee of 100% of the cost of the trip payable if:

• Half-Day Walk • All-Day Walk • Terminal Face Walk • Heli-Hike

You cancel your booking at least 1 hour before the reporting time for your trip; or, we cancel the trip for any reason

n/a

You cancel your booking less than 1 hour before the reporting time for your trip; or, you do not show up at the reporting time of your trip

• Ice Climbing Adventure • Heli-Ice Climbing Adventure

You cancel your booking by 4pm the night before the trip; or, we cancel the trip for any reason

n/a

You cancel your booking after 4pm the night before the trip; or, you do not show up at the reporting time of your trip

• Chancellor Dome Heli-Trek • Chancellor Dome Overnight Heli-Trek

You cancel your booking more than 48 hours before the reporting time for your trip; or, we cancel the trip for any reason

You cancel your booking at least 24 hours (but less than 48 hours) before the reporting time for the trip

You cancel your booking less than 24 hours before the trip; or, you do not show up at the reporting time of your trip

• Mountain Instruction Courses • Private High Guiding Trips

You cancel your booking at least 4 weeks before the trip is scheduled to depart; or, we cancel the trip for any reason

You cancel your booking at least 1 week (but less than 4 weeks) before the trip is scheduled to depart

You cancel your booking less than 1 week before the trip is scheduled to depart; or, you do not show up at the reporting time of your trip

O Tour group cancellations

Tour Operators must advise us of all cancellations in writing (email or fax preferred). The following cancellation policy will apply: • If the Operator notifies us more than 48 hours before the reporting time for the Group’s trip of any cancellation, then no cancellation fee will be charged. • If the Operator notifies us more than 24 hours (but less than 48 hours) before the reporting time for the Group’s trip, we will invoice the Operator 50% of the total cost of the trip. • If the Operator notifies us less than 24 hours before the reporting time for the Group’s trip or if the group does not show up at the reporting time of their trip, then we will invoice the Operator 100% of the total cost of the trip. • If the Group is going to be late or unable to report for the trip on time, the Operator should notify us as soon as possible. We will make all effort to allocate another time slot for the Group. However, this will not always be possible. In these circumstances, we reserve the right to invoice the Operator 50% or 100% of the total cost of the trip (as set out above) depending on the notice given. • If we cancel the trip due to weather, environmental factors, or any other reason, we will contact the Operator and ensure that their customers receive the appropriate refund. O Refunds once a trip has commenced

We recognize that there are occasions, usually if the weather or environmental conditions are extreme, when a trip must be cancelled after it has already commenced. For these circumstances, we have developed a partial refund policy, which is designed to balance the customer’s reasonable expectations of the trip against the costs that are incurred by the company. The policy is intended to ensure the customer receives an appropriate (but not necessarily complete) refund to reflect the value delivered by us on the trip. If you require details of this policy, please do not hesitate to ask us.


Fox Glacier Facts

Fox Glacier

moves fast ...

The unique combination of climate and shape means that Fox (and Franz Josef) Glaciers move at approximately 10 times the speed of other valley glaciers around the world. At Fox Glacier this is due to the funnel-like shape of the glacial valley and the huge nevé, the snow accumulation area, at the top of the glacier. Fox Glacier’s nevé is 36 square kms, bigger than the whole of Christchurch City!

...and is currently

how Glaciers work Snow in 4 1

2

3

3 4

1

5

RED: 6 1. area of snow accumulation water out 2 2. area of ice melt 7 3. equilibrium line 4. snowline gold: 1. annual layers, snow and firn 2. basal erosion 3. icefall 4. basal till 5. subglacial 8 streams 6. englacial till 7. subglacial moraine 8. river gravel

based on original drawn by t.j. chinn

At 13kms, Fox Glacier is the longest of the awe-inspiring New Zealand West Coast glaciers. At its head, soaring peaks of over 3,000m (10,000ft) dominate the vista. These include Aoraki (Mt Cook) and Mt Tasman, which, weather permitting, can be viewed on our heli-hiking experience. This mighty moving river of ice falls 2,600 metres, or a little over 8,000ft, on its journey from the base of the Southern Alps to the West Coast. New Zealand’s West Coast glaciers are unique and probably the most accessible glaciers in the world, as they terminate amongst temperate rainforest just 250m above sea level. So special is this mountain environment, that it forms part of the South Westland World Heritage Area.

advancing!

Glaciers constantly advance and retreat, held in delicate balance by the accumulation of snow gained in the upper glacier and ice melting in the lower part. An increase in snowfall at the nevé will result in the glacier advancing. Correspondingly, a faster melt will result in the glacier retreating. Overall Fox Glacier has been advancing since 1985.

DIG DEEPER Time to get intimate.

Deep in the heart of Fox Glacier: Fewer guided walkers on Fox Glacier means you can appreciate the awesome serenity of this special place. It’s a very personal experience.

We enjoy a close relationship with the Department of Conservation and we are committed to the preservation of Fox Glacier as one of New Zealand’s premier natural wonders.

12


Fox Glacier...

A Town Called

When you arrive at Fox Glacier you immediately feel relaxed in its intimate, village atmosphere. It has a stunning outlook across surrounding farms and offers breathtaking views of New Zealand’s highest peaks Aoraki (Mt Cook) and Mt Tasman. Tucked discreetly into the rainforest-clad foothills of the Southern Alps, the town was founded when gold was discovered. Complementing the charm of this delightful country village are nine licensed restaurants and cafes. The Hobnail Café is conveniently located in the Fox Glacier Guiding Building and offers a wide selection of delicious food.

2

1

3

DIG DEEPER

4

Key Points of Interest in Fox Glacier.

1 Aoraki (Mt Cook) 2 Mt Tasman 3 Fox Glacier 4 Fox Glacier Township

Sightseeing & activities ... Fox Glacier Township is set amongst some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Most ‘things to do’ are based around the outdoors. A ‘must do’ at Fox Glacier is a visit to Lake Matheson, a five minute drive west of the township. This famous reflective lake is a photographers dream, as its crystal waters create a mirror image of New Zealand’s highest peaks, Aoraki (Mt Cook) and Mt Tasman. The track encircles the lake, through native rainforest, and it takes approximately one hour to walk the entire lake circuit. A further 20 minutes drive on from Lake Matheson brings you to the historic gold mining settlement of Gillespies Beach. There are several walks to enjoy here, the most popular being a four hour return trip to a colony of fur seals. The Department of Conservation (DOC) maintain a number of other tracks around the Fox Glacier Township which offer amazing views and scenery.

For more information please contact www.doc. govt.nz or phone 03 751 0807. In addition to the numerous guided glacier trip options detailed in this booklet, there are also a number of helicopter companies in town offering scenic flights over the glaciers and surrounding mountains. It is advisable to book ahead as they can be relatively busy when the weather is fine. If an adrenaline rush is what you are after, jump out of an airplane with Skydive NZ.


Shopping Around... The Hobnail Shop, in the Fox Glacier Guiding Building, offers a wide range of quality souvenirs and clothing. The buying philosophy of the shop is to stock something for everyone. If you see products you like here, you should also check out the store’s other two branches located in Franz Josef Glacier (30 mins drive north of Fox Glacier). These are called The Glacier Shop and Flights Gallery. The Glacier Shop, like the Hobnail Shop, has a wide range of affordable gifts, clothing and souvenirs. Flights Gallery specialises in exhibiting quality arts and crafts, by some of NZ’s best known artists. If you have an interest in NZ art, you should visit the website at www.flightsgallery.co.nz

Where to Stay in Fox Glacier There is an excellent selection of accommodation options in Fox Glacier. Below are some suggestions on where to stay in town. For bookings please contact the accommodation provider directly. They will be more than happy to assist you.

O Backpacker Fox Glacier Inn and Backpackers 16 motel rooms, 14 budget rooms Web: www.foxglacierinn.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0022 Ivory Towers Backpackers 40 rooms which can sleep up to 100 people. Web: www.ivorytowerslodge.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0838

O Bed &

Breakfast

Clearwater B & B 2 double rooms, 1 twin room Email: halford@xnet.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0076 Fox Glacier Homestay 3 rooms Email: euni@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0817 Fox Glacier Mountain View B & B 4 rooms (3 with ensuites) Web: www.foxglaciermountainview.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0770 Glacier Lane B&B 3 queen rooms Email: tamraols@yahoo.com Ph: 03 751 0016

Reflection Lodge 2 queen rooms (1 with ensuite), 1 twin room Web: www.reflectionlodge.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0707 Riverstone B & B 1 x queen room with ensuite Web: www.fox-glacier.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0048 Roaring Billy Lodge 2 rooms Email: billy@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0815 Ropatini’s Homestay B&B 5 rooms (3 with ensuites) Email: ropatinis@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0779 The Homestead 3 rooms with ensuites Email: foxhomstd@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0835 The White Fox B&B – Homestay 1 room with ensuite Web: www.thewhitefoxbandb.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0717

O Hotel Fox Glacier Hotel 60 rooms with ensuites Web: www.resorts.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0839

High Peaks Motor Lodge 19 double rooms with ensuites Web: www.highpeaksmotorlodge.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0131 Scenic Circle Glacier Country Hotel 51 rooms with ensuites Web: www.scenic-circle.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0847 Te Weheka Inn 21 rooms with ensuites Web: www.teweheka.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0730

O Lodge Fox Glacier Lodge 8 double rooms with ensuites Email: foxglacierlodge@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0888 Misty Peaks 5 rooms with ensuites Email: davidbentley@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0849

O Motel Lake Matheson Motel 22 units Web: www.lakematheson.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0830

Mt Cook View Motel 12 units Web: www.mtcookview.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0814 Pekanga Apartment 1 bedroom, self contained apartment Email: pekangaapt@ihug.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0088 Rainforest Motel 12 units with ensuites Web: www.rainforestmotel.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0140 Sunset Motels 25 units Web: www.sunsetmotels.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0062 The Westhaven 23 units (3 king bed & spa bath suites) Email: host@thewesthaven.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0084

O Motor Park Fox Glacier Campervan Park 22 powered campervan sites Email: foxglacierlodge@xtra.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0888 Fox Glacier Holiday Park A range of options from self contained rooms, lodge rooms and powered sites. Email: info@foxglacierholidaypark.co.nz Ph: 03 751 0821 14


How to find us...

Picton Westport

rs

7.5h

Drive south down State Highway 6 from Hokitika for approximately two hours. Driving north, we are the first of the Glacier towns you will reach, five hours from Queenstown, via Wanaka and Haast.

Wellington

Greymouth Arthur’s Hokitika Pass Franz Josef 6hrs Fox Glacier rs

Christchurch 5h

Sull ivan Rd

Queenstown Dunedin Invercargill

Cook Flat Rd

Milford Sound

North

6

Wanaka

Look for our building!

X Fox Glacier Guiding to Lake Matheson

We’re not hard to find in Fox Glacier – head for the large building on the main street and look for the Fox Glacier Guiding sign on the roof! You can’t miss us.

South

6

NEW ZEALAND BOOKING

www.foxguides.co.nz PO Box 38, Fox Glacier, New Zealand Freephone 0800 111 600 T +64 3 751 0825 F +64 3 751 0857 E info@foxguides.co.nz


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.