We are looking to spend 2 nights at one of the glaciers in February. I'm interested in a glacier hike or walk (but not heli-hike) for one day or half a day. We'd also like to do some other hiking in the area. Which town is best to base ourselves at for scenery and proximity to the glacier and other hikes? Thanks for any insight on trying to decide!

The glaciers are so similar that you're not missing much if you choose one over the other. When we were there last month, only one of them was offering guided hikes due to safety concerns - I think it was Fox, but I can't swear to it.

If you just want to explore on your own, you can easily walk to the terminal face of both glaciers in the same day - its a 60 minute return walk to Fox, a 90 minute return walk to Franz - they're only about 40 minutes apart by road.

In addition, there are many tracks around both and Lake Matheson is always popular - it's closer to Fox.

As for the villages themselves - Franz is bigger with more lodging and restaurant choices. It also has a wildlife center and the hot pools. It's closest to Okarito, if a kiwi tour appeals.

Fox is smaller, but is closer to Lake Matheson.

Thanks! I will look more closely into the glacier walks offered and see where lodging is available.

Unrelated-do you have a favorite car rental agency that you use in NZ?

Yep, APEX.

Great, thank you!