11 October 2026
Showers, retreating to the ranges in the afternoon, clearing in the evening but remaining mostly cloudy. Northerlies, dying out in the afternoon.
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1 / 42Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere
Alex Knob Track
This is a challenging day hike with a reward of the best views of Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere without taking a helicopter flight. In summer, make sure you start your hike early to avoid afternoon cloud.
Distance
17.2 km
Walking time
8 hr
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Westland forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 4:35 pm
12 October 2026
Areas of morning and evening cloud, otherwise fine. Northwesterlies.
13 October 2026
A few showers turning to rain in the morning. Northerlies developing before dawn.
14 October 2026
Rain, with heavy falls. Light winds.
15 October 2026
Showers, clearing in the evening. Light winds.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Alex Knob Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Alex Knob Track
The track shares a start with the mellow Lake Wombat track before a well signposted turnoff to your left moves you onto the much more scrambly Alex Knob track. The track zig zags upwards with two lookouts (the Christmas lookout and Rata lookout) along the way to enjoy the view from the elevation gained. You will need to use your hands to pull yourself up some of the trickier sections and previous hiking experience is highly recommended. As you move above the bush line you will be treated to panoramic views of the Franz Joseph Glacier and the Tasman Sea. The track takes 4 hours up and 4 hours down.
Essential information for Alex Knob Track
You will be heading up above the bush line, so take the necessary gear for an alpine trip. Snow may be present in winter/spring. Cloud is more common in the afternoon, so an early start is recommended for the best chance at a good view.
Getting there for Alex Knob Track
The track start is located 2km from the Franz Joseph township. You can drive or walk to the start of the track which is signposted on the right-hand side of the road. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Alex Knob Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Alex Knob Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.