Parking Near West Coast Wildlife Centre – Easy 2-Minute Walk

Free visitor parking is available on the street directly outside the West Coast Wildlife Centre. Alternatively, it is just a short 2-minute walk from the West Coast Wildlife Centre at the Franz Josef Heliport—easy, flat access and suitable for all vehicles.

the West Coast Wildlife Centre front building with a parked car, surrounded by mountains and a cloudy sky.

How to Get There

  • Head towards the Franz Josef Heliport (look for helicopter operations signage).
  • Park in the public car park.
  • Walk approximately 2 minutes to reach the West Coast Wildlife Centre entrance.
Get direction

Driving Times

From Christchurch International Airport follow the signs to Arthurs Pass and the West Coast. Travel through Hokitika and you will find us just 90 minutes south of Hokitika on the road down to Haast and Queenstown.
If you are travelling North from Queenstown then head for Haast and you will find Franz Josef approximately 120 minutes north from Haast — all very well signposted.

Queenstown to Franz Josef

4 ½ hours

352km

Haast to Franz Josef

2 hours

144km

Nelson to Franz Josef

5 ¾ hours

459km

Christchurch to Franz Josef

4 ¾ hours

379km

Greymouth to Franz Josef

2 hours

173km

Hokitika to Franz Josef

1 ¾ hours

134km

Please note: All driving times are estimates based on average traffic flow using Google Maps.

parking sign at west coast wildlife centre

Good to Know

  • Close & Flat: The route is suitable for all ages and most mobility levels.
  • Larger Vehicles: The car park accommodates SUVs and campervans. Please park within marked bays.
  • Accessibility: The walk is on flat pavement. If you require mobility parking closer to the entrance, please call ahead — our team will be happy to assist upon arrival.
  • Peak Times: During busy periods, the heliport car park is the best first option. If it’s full, follow local village parking signs or ask our staff for the nearest overflow area.
  • Signage & Charges: Check on-site signs for any time limits or restrictions. Parking charges may apply.

FAQ

Where can I park, and is it free?

Parking is free. Visitor parking is on the street directly outside the Centre, but a free bay cannot be guaranteed, and posted time limits apply, so check the on-site signs. There is also parking a flat 2-minute walk away at the Franz Josef Heliport, suitable for all vehicles. If the bays outside are taken, park there.

Can I park close for accessibility?

The walk is on flat pavement. If you need mobility parking closer to the entrance, please call 03 752 0600 ahead and the team will assist on arrival.