New Zealand can be explored at any time of the year. Each season highlights a special part of New Zealand’s landscape and unique plants and animals in a different way.
What is the best travel time for you and your friends? That completely depends on your interests. What activities are you most excited about? Do you prefer warm or mild temperatures? Here is a guide to New Zealand’s seasons.
September to November - Spring is the perfect time to explore the outdoors. There is still a chance of rain but the days are getting warmer. Flowers are blooming and newborn animals are at their cutest. Average daytime temperature: 18 °C.
December to February - Locals and visitors are making the most of the sunny days during summer. This is the busiest season and we recommend travelling at a different time. Average daytime temperature: 23 °C.
March to May - Autumn is our favourite season to travel New Zealand. Be welcomed with stable temperatures, fewer crowds and better deals. Average daytime temperature: 19 °C.
June to August - Do you love to spend time up the mountain? Winter is the perfect time for skiers and snowboarders. You will find the best mountains in the South Island. Average daytime temperature: 14 °C.
Spring is one of our favourite seasons to travel New Zealand. The flowers and trees are blossoming and newborn animals are born. The weather is mild, with a few warmer days sneaking in before summer.
It is also ‘waterfall season’ and a great time to visit Milford and Doubtful Sound. There are fewer tourists in spring, so you can enjoy New Zealand’s laidback lifestyle.
You will find the locals spending their summer days at the beach or around the lakes. Kayaking, snorkelling, sailing and swimming. The temperatures are gradually rising and if you have always dreamed of a Christmas at the beach, then this is your chance.
Summer is also the busiest time and if you would prefer fewer crowds and better deals, then we recommend to travel in a different period.
Are you a bird lover? New Zealand is a bird paradise. Some special species to keep an eye out for are the Kea, Yellow-eyed penguin, Tui, New Zealand bellbird. the kaka and much more.
Feel free to join one of our informative one-hour presentations about New Zealand, hosted by Ben.
Visit a destination dayBe welcomed by warm autumn colours and mild temperatures. Autumn is a great season to cycle and hike the ever-changing landscape of New Zealand.
Going into May, the days start to get cooler and you may even see snow on the mountain tops. Autumn is our favourite season to travel New Zealand, with temperatures between 7 and 21 and fewer tourists.
"April is the best time to see the leaves changing and all the vineyards in full bloom. Be sure to try one of New Zealand's many amazing wines."
Ben, Travel specialist
A winter wonderland. The seasons are the opposite of the United Kingdom, making the months of June, July and August the winter months in New Zealand. The mountains are covered in snow and there is more rainfall.
The North Island has a mild winter with temperatures between 10 and 16 degrees. The South Island is much colder and offers great skiing and snowboarding. You will find the ski resorts in Central Otago, Canterbury and the Central Plateau.
We would love to meet you and discuss the best travel time. Contact us to make an appointment at our office or from the comfort of your home.
Would like to visit some of New Zealand's greatest highlights? This trip is for you. A perfect blend of the North… read more
Would you like to visit some of New Zealand’s most spectacular sights and hidden gems and to stay in luxurious,… read more
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
