Franz Josef: Quad Bike Off-Road Adventure & Glacier Views

Summary

Quad biking ancient riverbeds under Franz Josef’s glacier peaks

You’ll ride a quad bike through Franz Josef’s wild rainforest tracks with glacier views peeking through the canopy. Expect muddy splashes, riverside stops for local stories, and laughter with your guide—all gear provided so you can focus on feeling every bump and breeze along these ancient paths.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—sort of sharp and green, like wet ferns after rain. We were still getting our helmets sorted when our guide, Jamie, grinned at my gumboots and said, “You’ll need those.” I laughed but honestly didn’t know what I was in for. The quad bikes looked a bit intimidating at first (I’d never driven one), but Jamie ran through everything and made it sound easy—“Just trust your hands.” So I did.

Starting out, the track was all puddles and tangled roots. The quad bike jolted under me, mud splattering up my leg (the gear really does help), and there was this weird thrill in not knowing if you’d slide or grip. We stopped by a riverbank where the water moved fast—icy blue—and Jamie told us about how the glacier used to reach right down here. He shared a Māori legend about the mountains; I probably butchered the name when I tried repeating it, but he just laughed.

I kept catching glimpses of Franz Josef Glacier between the trees—sometimes just a flash of white above dark rainforest. There was a moment where we paused and everyone went quiet except for the bikes ticking as they cooled off. You could hear bellbirds somewhere deep in the bush. It’s strange how loud silence can be after all that engine noise. I still think about that view sometimes, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided off-road quad bike adventure

• Receive wet weather gear and gumboots
• Learn to ride off-road vehicles
• Ride through rainforest and splash rivers
• Explore ancient glacier riverbed
• Enjoy views of Southern Alps and glacier
• Hear local Maori legends and history

Top questions

Is previous quad biking experience needed for this Franz Josef tour?

No experience is required—the guide teaches you how to ride before setting off.

What should I wear for the quad bike adventure?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting muddy; wet weather gear and gumboots are provided.

Are children allowed on the Franz Josef quad bike tour?

Passengers on quads must be at least 145cm tall; buggy passengers must be at least 110cm tall.

Can two people share one quad bike?

You can book a double quad (one driver, one passenger); swapping drivers isn’t allowed during the tour.

Is transport to the starting point included?

Public transportation options are available nearby but not included in the tour itself.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour runs in most weather conditions; wet weather gear is provided for all participants.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers or those with back injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes full wet weather gear, gumboots, helmet, free photos from your ride, and guidance from a local who shares both safety tips and Māori legends as you explore Franz Josef’s ancient glacial riverbeds together.