Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Exterior photo The photo shows a modern, wooden building at dusk. The building has a multi-level structure with a flat roof and large windows, allowing a glimpse into the warmly lit interior. The exterior is primarily clad in warm-toned wood, with some sections feaLegacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Exterior photo The photograph captures a modern building nestled amidst lush, green foliage. The building appears to be a multi-story structure with a long, horizontal design. It features large windows and balconies that extend along its facade, providing views of Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Exterior photo The photo shows a multi-level wooden building nestled in a lush, green, forested area. The building appears to be a resort or lodging, with several balconies extending from each floor, offering views of the surrounding nature. 

The architecture is m
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From454US$ /night
Check-in
03May2026Select date
Check-out
04May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

3 Wallace Street, State Highway 6, Franz Josef, New Zealand, 7856
-
Near the West Coast Wildlife Centre
Great
8.4
9.3
/10
4.4
4.6
/5

Accommodation

Te Waonui Forest Retreat offers 97 luxurious guest rooms, showcasing the highest standard in sustainable accommodation. Each room includes private balconies overlooking the native forest, Super King or Queen bedding, and ensuite bathrooms with heated floors. The rooms incorporate organic materials, including natural wool carpets and cotton bedspreads.

Dining

The Canopy Restaurant provides a five-course degustation menu highlighting the freshest New Zealand produce. Guests can also enjoy cocktails and fine wines at the Frond Bar, set amid the serene rainforest surroundings. Each dining experience is crafted to reflect the essence of local flavors paired with premium ingredients.

Location

Te Waonui Forest Retreat is located in Franz Josef on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. The retreat is surrounded by lush bush and offers direct access to the South West World Heritage Area. Guests can explore the nearby Franz Josef Glacier and other natural wonders, including mountains, rivers, and lakes.

Wellness

Guests can unwind and rejuvenate with various wellness activities nearby, including guided walks and glacier hikes. The retreat's eco-friendly design promotes a connection with nature, allowing guests to relax amid the serene environment. The local flora and fauna create an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts.

Business Retreats & Incentives

Te Waonui Forest Retreat specializes in bespoke corporate retreats, accommodating up to 40 guests for theatre-style events. With an unparalleled setting, the retreat offers tailored itineraries that focus on relaxation and creativity. The experienced team can arrange both onsite and offsite experiences, enhancing any business agenda.

Highlights

Location: Scenic setting in the lush bush

Accommodation: 97 guest rooms with forest views

Dining: Five-course degustation at Canopy Restaurant

Wellness: Guided walks and glacier hikes

Business: Tailored itineraries for corporate retreats

Must-do experiences

  • Take a scenic helicopter tour of Franz Josef Glacier for stunning views.
  • Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see Kiwi birds up close.
  • Try a Fergburger in nearby Queenstown for the ultimate burger fix.
  • Hike to the beautiful Franz Josef Glacier lookout for breathtaking views.
  • Relax in the Glacier Hot Pools surrounded by lush rainforest.
View all

Select your room type

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Twin Room
2 persons
360 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
360 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Valet parking
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Sun terrace
  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room
  • Spa & wellness centre

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

The Canopy Restaurant at Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef offers a delightful culinary experience where locally sourced produce shines. Guests can unwind in a serene setting surrounded by trees, indulging in thoughtfully crafted menus that cater to a variety of dietary preferences.
Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Restaurant photo The photo captures a bright and airy restaurant setting. The space features light green carpeting and large windows that let in ample natural light, revealing a view of greenery outside. 

Several tables are set for dining, covered with white tablecl
Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Restaurant photo The photo shows a bright and airy restaurant dining room. The walls are painted a warm beige, and the floor is covered in a light green carpet. Large windows surround the room, offering views of lush greenery outside, possibly trees and foliage. Natu
Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Restaurant photo The photo shows a bright and airy restaurant dining area. The space is well-lit, with natural light coming in from windows on the right side of the frame. 

The room features several tables set for dining. Most of the tables are round and covered wit

The Canopy Restaurant

Local cuisine with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
Nestled among the trees, creating a tranquil dining atmosphere
Key Offerings
Indulgent five-course degustation dinner featuring the freshest regional delicacies
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM; Dinner from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM daily

Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef Location

3 Wallace Street, State Highway 6, Franz Josef, New Zealand, 7856
Map view
3 Wallace Street, State Highway 6, Franz Josef, New Zealand, 7856
Nearby
Church
Our Lady Of The Alps Catholic Church
1800 ft
Restaurants
The Canopy Restaurant
100 ft
3 Wallace Street
Monsoon Bar & Restaurant
400 ft
46 Cron St. Franz Josef Glacier
Alice May
1000 ft
30 Cron Street Corner of Cron & Cowan Street
The Landing
1000 ft
Sh 6
Snake Bite Brewery
1200 ft
28 Main Rd
Grill N Wok Cafe
1000 ft
29 Main Road Alpine Adventure Building
Explore Franz Josef
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
West Coast Wildlife Centre
West Coast Wildlife Centre
15 minutes' walk
Native wildlife, including kiwi and tuatara, showcased in a conservation-focused facility with guided tours available.
Glacier Hot Pools
Glacier Hot Pools
15 minutes' walk
Relaxing hot pools set within lush rainforest, offering a rejuvenating experience after outdoor adventures with stunning surroundings.
St James Church
St James Church
10 minutes' walk
Historic church featuring stunning architecture and community events, suitable for a peaceful moment or a quiet visit.
Glacier Country Kayaks
Glacier Country Kayaks
10 minutes' walk
Guided kayak tours to experience Franz Josef Glacier and its breathtaking views, catering to both beginners and seasoned paddlers.
Skydive Franz
Skydive Franz
15 minutes' walk
Adrenaline-pumping skydiving experience with panoramic views of the glaciers, ideal for thrill-seekers looking for adventure.
The Canopy Restaurant
The Canopy Restaurant
1 minute' walk
Relaxed setting with a focus on local produce, offering seasonal dishes with vegetarian options available. Reservations recommended.
Monsoon Bar & Restaurant
Monsoon Bar & Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Casual dining with an eclectic menu featuring Asian fusion dishes. Perfect for families, with gluten-free options available.
Snake Bite Brewery
Snake Bite Brewery
5 minutes' walk
Lively brewery offering craft beers and live music sessions, creating a vibrant atmosphere for socializing and relaxation.
Alice May
Alice May
4 minutes' walk
Cozy restaurant and bar featuring local art, serving hearty meals and hosting events like trivia nights for relaxed entertainment.
Getting around
City Centre
Franz Josef3 min  ·  700 ft
Airports
Hokitika (HKK)204 min  ·  84.3 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
from 06:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Legacy Te Waonui Franz Josef guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
95
Former name
te waonui forest retreat

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 386 verified reviews
8.6/10
Great
85%
Recommend
Breakfast
9.0/10
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.6/10
Location
9.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.1/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
7.4/10
Guest reviews
based on 386 reviews
8.6/10
based on 421 reviews
8.4/10
Steven from United States
Couple
Deluxe King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 16, 2025
9.3/10

a cozy moment to remember

tasty dinnerverdant vegetationcomfy bedfriendly staff
the 5 course dinner seemed so tasty and i found myself in love with the breakfast buffet. the rooms shine with views overlooking verdant vegetation. the comfy bed gave me such a good sleep. i was treated with complimentary water, a little touch .
Dining
9/10
The hotel meals provided wide selections and my gluten intolerant partner found great choices. the downstairs restaurant shows true passion. It seemed like a culinary journey. i could savor every bite.
Location
9/10
the position offers short access to the high street and walks, so it felt ideal. i felt nestled in nature, yet close to village action. it allowed for easy exploration.
Rooms
10/10
our room came with an suite bathroom. our beautiful king room was clean. i must say that they kept it that way throughout our three day stay. we had ample coffee and tea.
Facilities
9/10
massages booked in the lobby feel just right. the masseuse ranzim seemed amazing, a professional touch created extreme relaxation. the massages add to a unique experience.
0 Helpful
|
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Owen from Australia
Couple
Deluxe King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 14, 2025
6/10
friendly staffbad fooduncomfortable mattress
the staff was friendly, i guess, and did their job.
I expected a five-star experience, but the food was just not good. I think they used frozen stuff. my room was so humid, it took forever for my clothes to dry, and that mattress, so uncomfortable. i regret eating there. The breakfast and dinner were not great.
0 Helpful
Billy from Australia
Couple
Deluxe King Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 10, 2025
9/10

Comfortable and Helpful

helpful staffwelcome drinkconvenient parkinghot towels
From start to finish, my experience went smoothly. The staff was always willing to help. I particularly appreciated the hot towels and welcome drink upon arrival. The hotel also had convenient, free parking on its grounds.
My room was a bit dated. I found a slight musky smell, perhaps due to the humidity of the area.
Rooms
9/10
The room featured local flora to make it appear forest-like. It was nicely decorated. it had lovely toiletries. The bathroom included both a bath and a separate shower, so you can choose based on preference.
0 Helpful
|
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