Six Reasons to Love Spring in Glacier Country

Spring is a great time to experience Glacier Country, its considered a quieter shoulder season so its the perfect time to explore before the summer crowds arrive. The days get warmer and stretch longer, the Southern Alps sparkle with late snow and the rare white heron / kōtuku returns to nest. The whole region feels alive with fresh energy.

Here are six reasons we love spring in Glacier Country and why it’s such a special time to visit.

1. Whitebait Season

Nothing says spring on the West Coast quite like whitebait season. From 1st September to 30th October, you’ll see locals lining river mouths and creeks with their nets hoping to scoop up this West Coast delicacy.

For many Coasters whitebaiting isn’t just about the catch it’s about tradition and family time by the river and for visitors it’s about tasting the freshest whitebait patties you’ll ever find. Many of our cafés and restaurants serve whitebait during the season so keep an eye out on the menu as it’s the ultimate seasonal treat.

Fresh from the net, nothing says spring on the West Coast like whitebait season.

2. A Season of Rainbows

Spring weather can sometimes keep you guessing, one minute the sun’s out the next a shower sweeps through and before you know it there’s a rainbow stretching across the valley before the day ends with a beautiful sunset.

The rain isn’t something we grumble about here. Ask any Coaster and they’ll tell you it’s part of the magic, beauty comes with the rain. Rain is what keeps our rainforest lush, fuels the rivers and lakes and it also creates those dramatic misty moods we’re famous for. When the clouds lift to reveal the Southern Alps dusted in fresh snow with a rainbow above… well, that’s pure magic. The kind of sight that makes you stop, smile and pull over on your road trip for a photo.

Double rainbows across the Waiho River looking up towards Franz Josef Glacier Valley.

3. Birdlife in Full Swing

Spring is a busy time for the birds! Glacier Country is home to the only nesting site of the rare white heron / kōtuku. From mid-September these elegant birds return to the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve near Whataroa to nest through summer alongside royal spoonbills and little shags. A visit to the colony with White Heron Sanctuary Tours is a truly unforgettable experience.

Ōkārito is a birding hotspot and also part of a thriving conservation story as part of the Predator Free South Westland Project area. The lagoon is a vital feeding ground for the kōtuku and home to over 76 species of birds. From the secretive mātātā / fernbird, the rarest kiwi the Rowi, to elusive bitterns and the colourful kakariki yellow crowned parakeet which has recently returned highlighting the success of conservation work. Whether you guide quietly in a kayak or join a boat tour you’ll be treated to a special window into this thriving ecosystem.

Kōtuku nesting at their only NZ breeding site in the Waitangiroto Nature Reserve. Photo Credit: White Heron Sanctuary Tours Whataroa.

4. Bruce Bay Sports Day

If you’re here over Labour Weekend make sure you head along to the Bruce Bay Sports Day. This legendary community event has been running for decades and is as West Coast as it gets!

There’s kids’ games, tug of war contests and the always popular wood chopping competitions. The kitchen dishes up Coast classics: BBQ, home baking and of course whitebait. Raffles keep the action rolling throughout the day and when the sun goes down, the Bruce Bay Ball kicks off. It’s a genuine slice of West Coast community life and visitors are always welcome to join in the fun.

Strength and precision on display at the Bruce Bay Sports Day woodchopping competitions. Photo Credit: South Westland Axeman’s Club.

5. Salmon Fishing

The Salmon Fishing season opens on 1st October and runs through until the end of March. You can experience some of the best brown trout and salmon fishing on the West Coast in Glacier Country.

Lake Mapourika in Franz Josef is a local favourite, its glassy reflections of snowy peaks and rainforest are worth the trip alone. It’s part of the wild sea run salmon route from the Tasman Sea to the lake via the Okarito River. There are also introduced lake salmon present all year round. Further South Lake Paringa offers a peaceful fishing spot surrounded by native bush.

Franz Josef Wilderness Tours run all-weather fishing charters, providing all the gear and expert local guidance. There’s even a BBQ on board so you can cook your catch and enjoy it fresh out on the water, a true West Coast fishing experience.

Catch of the day on a Franz Josef Wilderness Tours Fishing Charter at Lake Mapourika. Photo Credit: Franz Josef Wilderness Tours.

6. Orchid Season

Spring is when the rainforest comes alive and among the quiet stars for the season are our native orchids. From delicate spider orchids (Corybas) to other striking native varieties each bloom is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Their colours, shapes and unique beauty add an extra layer of magic.

A guided walk is one of the best ways to discover them. Local guides know exactly where to look and along the way you’ll learn about the glaciers, rainforest, birdlife and the local stories. It’s the perfect way to slow down and connect with nature.

The intricate beauty of spider orchids on a guided rainforest walk. Photo Credit: Glacier Valley Eco Tours

Spring is alive in Glacier Country from fishing and wildlife tours to local events and seasonal flavours, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the adventure!

• Explore things to do
• Find a place to stay

Spring is a season not to be missed, experience its magic in Glacier Country!