Franz Josef Glacier in December - Weather and Packing
 

dumb question perhaps - I have looked at weather and still trying to figure out how to dress for glacier - We are travelling for 43 days in total.
Leave Dec 4 Auckland to Queenstown (Dec. 25) using the West Coast Nelson to Franz Galcier mountain route then off to Melbourne, Port Douglas and Sydney (Jan 11) so don't want to over pack - looks like weather is ranging from 11 (or less?) to 35!
Will I need boots for the glacier or can I get away with good quality hiking shoes? Really dont want to carry boots for remainder of days if not necessary....
Also Windbreaker and fleece layer underneath or is a windbreaker and light sweather enough??? thanks

We climbed Franz Josef glacier many years ago and were provided with proper climbing boots by the tour organiser. Why not email and ask them the question.

If you're just walking to the terminal face on your own, sturdy shoes are sufficient. If climbing onto the glacier, as marg states, gear is provided by the tour operator.

<Also Windbreaker and fleece layer underneath or is a windbreaker and light sweather enough???>

I'd go with the fleece and a waterproof layer that fits over the fleece. This is how we pack on every single trip to NZ regardless of time of year; works like a charm for us.

Marg is correct, they provide special boots for climbing on ice and suitable jackets, too. Dressed all alike, you'll look like you are part of an ice-climbing team!

See this page:
http://www.franzjosefglacier.com/mor...for-your-trip/

Thanks. In new Zealand now! Fox glacier or franz Josef ?

I think they are probably both rewarding experiences, but we did our guided ice climb on Franz Josef and just walked to the terminal of Fox Glacier, as this walk to views of the terminal face from the parking lot is shorter than that for the terminal face for Franz Josef. I am sure you know, you should not attempt to climb the ice on your own.
Here's a link to the DOC website:
http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-rec...e-valley-walk/
And general info on Glacier Country:
http://www.glaciercountry.co.nz/
If you are going to Mt. Cook village, you will be able to walk to Tasman Glacier terminal lake or take a commercial boat or kayak ride on the lake.
http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-rec...alking-tracks/

By the way, welcome to New Zealand! Haere mai. Have a great time.
This weather link will come in handy:
http://www.metservice.com/national/home