Two climbers are instructed in ice climbing by a guide on the Franz Josef Glacier.
“Westland's mighty Franz Josef Glacier, nearly nine miles long, and two miles wide, sweeps down from the vast snowfields of New Zealand's Southern Alps”
“This rugged river of ice, framed by the evergreen forest, presents a spectacle magnificently grand”
“The Glacier Hotel...where comfort and jollity rule”
View of two storey wooden building.
“Preparing to invade the Ice King's stronghold”
Woman sitting in wicker chair on verandah of hotel, putting on socks. 2nd woman approaches, bag over shoulder. Guide gives them boots to put on. C.U. tying up boots.
The two women & male guide set off with ice axes & packs.
“The Waiho River, flowing from Franz Josef's terminal face”
“Shadowed depths, reflecting the valley of ice”
Reflections of glacier in river, view up to peaks.
“The climb begins where the glacier ends”
Climbers start making way up hill. Guide chips piece of glacier off with axe.
“Ice-craft instruction and demonstration by the guide”
C.U. of guide talking to the two women, making steps up and down hill in ice. Ropes up the women, set off up glacier.
“Among glittering ridges on the lower slopes”
The three making their way through almost a tunnel of ice, guide making steps with ice axe through large formations of ice.
“Serrated pinnacles sparkling in the sun”
View of guide helping climber. View from above as three come up towards camera. View from rear.
“Attending to the climber's vigorous appetite”
Sitting drinking and eating. Can opened with ice axe. C.U. women eating pineapple slices.
“A crystal archway spans the trail”
Arch of ice through which they come towards camera. Steps made towards camera. Peaks of ice surround climbers. Stand to admire view.
“Where the Almer and Franz Josef Glaciers meet”
Conjunction of ice formations.
NZ Government Publicity badge.
Finish.