After running out of reasonably priced accommodation options in Franz Josef and Fox, we decided to explore (slightly) further afield and happened upon Okarito. Very glad we did.
If you want to get away from it all, pack some insect repellant and some supplies and head out here. Okarito is charming with strong history and a proud feeling community. Yok's place (looked after by Gemma) is a well lived in two story holiday home complete with open fireplace and views for ages. If you have kids, they will love the privacy of the darts room with mezzanine and two beds as will the adults as they are located upstairs.
There are games, books and DVDs aplenty in the house to keep you entertained if the weather turns to custard, but we were lucky enough to enjoy sunny skies and temperate nights.
Gemma runs the local kayak mob down the street and we had no problems at all with checking in (a bit late) and she was very helpful with sending us in the right direction for local interest spots. Okarito is a short drive from the glaciers and the amenities that Franz Josef provides - when the description says BYO, you need to BYO! Absolutely no worries though and Yok's place certainly felt like home for the couple of nights that we spent there.
Highly recommended (but take more time if you can!)