These are the two most famous glaciers in NZ, one of NZ's biggest attractions and are visited by hordes of tourists from all over the world. The reason being that nowhere in the world have glaciers advanced so close to the sea.

Situated in the West Coast region of the South Island, these glaciers are very large, very steep and subject to a lot of rain. These reasons make it ideal for them to be right next to the sea and still be frozen rivers of ice, unaffected by coastal climes. Thanks to the steep gradient, the mass of floating ice gets very close to the sea before it melts. Ideally see both the glaciers. If you can only go to one, then go to Fox just for the sheer variety of walks, views and things to do, but if you can manage to, then do both.

Franz Josef Glacier was named after the Austrian Emperor since it was first explored by an Austrian by the name of Julius Haast. Its been advancing since 1985 and has advanced by about 1.7km, at the rate of 70cm a day.

You can either drive here from the town of Franz Joseph or take a bus. Walking around on the glacier is possible only with an experienced guide. There are several walks, some will take you to a 'kettle lake' and one, which takes you close to the terminal face of the glacier but you'll really have to be prepared to footslog.

Fox Glacier was named in 1872 after Kiwi Prime Minister Sir William Fox. It, too, is advancing at a rate of 40 cm everyday since 1985. There are lots of walk around here and the must do one is to the glow-worm dell.

Obviously, go at night! The walk to Lake Matheson is one of the most beautiful in NZ and the climb up to Cone Rock is rewarding in terms of the fabulous views. Mt. Fox itself is a good viewpoint. There are forest walks, river walks and a walk to Gillespie's Beach to the seal colony.

Walk Alert! Walk at night to a dell where glow-worms light up the night sky.

Getting There: The best way to get to the Glaciers is by car. Buses run from Queenstown (8hrs), Greymouth (4hrs.) Picton and Nelson. There are connections the glaciers from most towns and cities on the South Island but you'll have to book in advance.

Accommodation: Both the glaciers are close to the towns of Franz Josef and Fox which are just about 20 km from each other and offer good accommodation for visitors. There are hotels and motels and hostels in both places though as always, it is better to book before you go. Camping grounds and cabins are also available for those driving campervans and for budget travellers. There are good pubs, caf�s and restaurants in both places though Fox has the upper hand in variety and comfort.

When to go: The best time to check out a glacier would, most emphatically, be in summer! Imagine how much colder it would get in winter. The imagination would freeze as would the person! You are heading to one of the coldest places on earth – a glacier! Take along an anorak or a parka, warm socks and good quality boots. Woollen gloves and caps would help keep out the cold. A camera would be essential to record your visit – one doesn’t go to a glacier on every holiday, does one?

Tourist Offices: You can go to both towns VI Centres and get all the information on the activities, which include horseriding, aerial sightseeing and walking around the glacier.