Park & nature

Callery River

Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The Callery River is a classic braided river near Franz Josef, fed by glacial meltwater from the Southern Alps. Its wide, gravelly riverbed and multiple channels create a dynamic landscape that changes with the seasons. Visitors can enjoy short walks along the riverbanks, capturing photos of the turquoise waters against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The area is also a starting point for helicopter tours to the glacier.

Don't miss

  • Walk along the riverbank for panoramic views of the Southern Alps.
  • Photograph the braided channels and turquoise glacial waters.
  • Spot native birds like the South Island robin in the riverside forest.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Callery River

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

More attractions in Franz Josef

Planning your trip to Franz Josef? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Franz Josef itinerary.