Best Time to Visit New Zealand

When visiting New Zealand, remember that the seasons are opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is from December to February, autumn from March to May, spring from September to November, and winter from June to August.

New Zealand’s southerly position creates dynamic ecosystems that change dramatically from the North Island’s top beaches to the South Island’s fjords. The best time to travel will depend on whether you wish to visit in the bustling high season or the quieter shoulder and low seasons.

High Season: January and February

January and February, in the high season, are the perfect summer months to visit New Zealand’s North and South islands. The warm weather is ideal for visiting the many beaches or sailing the waters in search of playful dolphins. The celebrated outdoor lifestyle is in full swing. The country's climate offers a more tropical feel at the Bay of Islands and cooler, continental temperatures in Fiordland National Park.

What to Expect

• Warm Sand: Feel the unique, dark volcanic sand of the West Coast beaches warm your feet as you walk toward the surf.
• Sailing: Hear the snap of a sail and the calls of dolphins as you cruise the clear waters of the Bay of Islands on a private charter.
• Lakefront Life: Experience the lively hum of Queenstown's waterfront, with people dining outdoors late into the evening, glasses clinking against a mountain backdrop.
• Cool Mist: Feel the fine, cool mist from Huka Falls on your face, a refreshing contrast on a warm North Island day.

Shoulder Season: September, October, March, and April

The shoulder months of September, October (spring), March, and April (autumn) are the best times to visit New Zealand. The weather is comfortable and the landscapes are vivid. In spring, the country is temperate after the snow season, while fall brings a canvas of deep browns, reds, and golds. The greatest benefit is the absence of crowds, making popular destinations more accessible for bike riding, wildlife spotting, hiking, and stargazing.

What to Expect

• Autumn Colors: See the brilliant gold and crimson foliage of Arrowtown reflected in the clear, still waters of the Arrow River.
• Spring Blooms: Smell the sweet, delicate scent of cherry blossoms in Christchurch or see the vibrant lupins carpeting the fields near Lake Tekapo.
• Quiet Trails: Hear the satisfying crunch of gravel under your hiking boots on a quiet trail in Abel Tasman National Park, the beach at the end all your own.
• Night Skies: Feel the crisp, cool night air as you gaze up at the impossibly clear, dense star canopy of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve.

Low Season: July and August

July and August are the best months to experience New Zealand in the winter low season. Outside of the mountains and the southern tip of the South Island, winter is generally mild, with crisp, clear skies. It is a great time to enjoy the snow-covered volcanic peaks or access quiet valleys. From relaxing in geothermal pools to whale watching, winter offers a different perspective on the islands.

What to Expect

• Fresh Snow: Hear the soft shush of your skis on fresh powder in the Southern Alps, with the deep blue of Lake Wakatipu far below.
• Geothermal Warmth: Feel the velvety, mineral-rich water of a natural hot spring envelop you, steam rising into the cold, sharp air.
• Whale Songs: Hear the deep, sudden whoosh of a sperm whale's blow echoing across the still, cold water in Kaikoura.
• Sharp Air: Breathe in the clean, cold air, so clear it makes the mountain landscapes seem even sharper and closer.

The spring months of September and October and those of fall, from March to May, are the best times for sightseeing. You will find great weather across both islands and much smaller crowds than in the popular summer. Flowers bloom along the Great Walks and the local cuisine shifts with the harvest, revealing the islands' incredible diversity.

What to Expect

• Quiet Fiords: Feel the solitude of the Milford Sound, hearing the thunder of waterfalls as you glide through the fiord without the peak-season boat traffic.
• Shifting Cuisine: Taste the earthy, rich flavors of a new-season lamb roast paired with a bold Central Otago pinot noir in the crisp autumn air.
• Spring Life: See the vibrant, electric-purple and pink lupins carpeting the fields around Lake Tekapo against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains.
• Clear Views: Experience the sharp clarity of the air from the top of the Queenstown gondola, overlooking the deep blue lake and mountains without a summer haze.

Best Months

• September
• October
• March
• April
• May

Take a look at our Best Places to Visit in New Zealand for more inspiration.

The Southern Hemisphere’s summer months of January and February are the best time for the beach. Ocean temperatures around the North Island are comfortable. By February, the local holiday crowds have thinned, offering the perfect time for lounging on the sand or winding through coastal trails to find panoramic views.

What to Expect

• Secluded Coves: Feel the soft, golden sand of a hidden cove in Abel Tasman National Park, accessible only by kayak or water taxi.
• Clear Water: Feel the refreshing, clear water of the Bay of Islands as your private charter anchors for a swim.
• Coastal Scents: Smell the distinct, salty air mixed with the sweet scent of blooming pohutukawa, New Zealand's crimson-flowered Christmas tree.
• Trail Rewards: Hear the sound of your footsteps on the trail to Cathedral Cove, ending with the reward of a perfectly framed view of the sea arch.

Best Months

• January
• February
• March

Our sample Best of the North Island for Families itinerary has more information on what you can expect.

The winter months of June, July, and August are the best time to visit New Zealand for whale watching. While sperm whales reside off the coast year-round, winter brings migrating pods of humpback, pilot, right, and even blue whales. These traveling giants stop near the country’s shores on their long journey to tropical waters.

What to Expect

• The Sound: Hear the powerful whoosh of a whale's blow long before you see it, a sound that carries clearly across the cold, still water.
• The Air: Feel the sharp, cold, salty spray on your face from the deck of the boat as you cruise the deep waters off Kaikoura.
• The Sight: Watch the immense, dark shape of a humpback breach, sending a cascade of white water into the air against a grey sky.
• Anticipation: Feel the quiet thrill of the boat engine cutting out as the captain spots a pod, leaving you in the silent, vast ocean waiting.

Best Months

• June
• July
• August

Let our sample 2-Week South Island Tour inspire your whale-watching excursion.

The summer months provide the best surfing opportunities in New Zealand. There is no need for a wetsuit along the shores of the North Island, especially at the northern tip. While the waters along the South Island require a wetsuit year-round, the swells are great between December and March around places like Kaikoura and Dunedin.

What to Expect

• Warm Water: Feel the surprising freedom of paddling out in just your boardshorts in the warm, clear waters of the Bay of Islands.
• Powerful Swells: Feel the immense, cold power of the Southern Ocean swell as it picks you up for a long ride in Kaikoura.
• Surf Towns: Smell the comforting scent of board wax and salty air in the laid-back surf town of Raglan, famous for its long left-hand break.
• Long Rides: Experience the excitement of a long, peeling wave, the water a deep blue as you glide across its face in the early morning light.

Best Months

• December
• January
• February
• March

More information can be found in our article, New Zealand in Summer: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More.

Autumn gives way to the harvest season, making February through May fantastic months to visit the islands’ wine regions. The country is famous for its sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. The changing leaves, the thrill of the harvest, and an exceptional blend of grape varietals make this the perfect time to discover New Zealand's specialties.

What to Expect

• Harvest Scent: Inhale the rich, yeasty aroma of fermenting grapes as you tour a private cellar in Hawke's Bay.
• Taste: Taste the sharp, grassy, grapefruit notes of a Marlborough sauvignon blanc, poured by the winemaker in the very vineyard where it grew.
• Sight: See the rolling hills of Central Otago covered in rows of vines turned deep crimson and bright gold.
• Feel: Feel the cool, damp air of a wine cave as you sample a flight of complex pinot noirs, the winemaker explaining the nuances of each barrel.

Best Months

• February
• March
• April
• May

Be inspired by our sample New Zealand wine tours.

The shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are the best times to visit New Zealand for hiking, especially for multi-day Great Walks like the Milford Track or Tongariro Alpine Crossing. These seasons offer the most stable and comfortable weather, avoiding the intense heat and crowded trails of mid-summer, and the snow and ice of deep winter. Spring is characterized by clear trails and vibrant wildflowers, while autumn offers cool, dry conditions and stunning foliage in areas like Central Otago.

What to Expect

• Firm Trails: Feel the confident pace of your boots on dry, well-maintained paths, minimizing mud and ice on high-altitude tracks.
• Optimal Views: Breathe in the crisp, clean alpine air, which offers maximum clarity for viewing the vast landscapes of Fiordland or the Southern Alps.
• Pleasant Temperatures: Experience the ideal balance of cool mornings and warm afternoons, perfect for strenuous activity without overheating.
• Vibrant Scenery: See the brilliant electric colors of the Emerald Lakes on the Tongariro Crossing framed by a clear, autumnal sky.

Best Months

• September
• October
• March
• April
• May

To inspire your trip further, see our best New Zealand hiking tours.

The best time to visit Auckland is during the summer months of January and February and the shoulder months of March and April. While Auckland's climate is mild year-round, these months provide the warmest ocean temperatures, making them ideal for enjoying the "City of Sails" and its surrounding marine environment. This is the perfect time for sailing, island hopping to Waiheke, and exploring the many coastal walkways and beaches.

What to Expect

• Warm Water: Feel the refreshing, comfortable ocean water as you take a dip off a ferry at Waiheke Island or a secluded beach in the Hauraki Gulf.
• Al Fresco Dining: Hear the lively hum of the Viaduct Harbour, with people dining outdoors late into the evening under a warm, clear sky.
• Easy Access: Glide across the water easily on a ferry to Rangitoto or a boat charter, enjoying smooth seas and consistent sun.
• City Buzz: Experience the city's cosmopolitan energy at its peak, with markets, concerts, and outdoor events taking advantage of the fine weather.

Best Months

• January
• February
• March
• April

Visit Auckland on our sample Best of New Zealand: Private Two-Week Tour.

The summer and autumn months, from January through April, are the best time to visit New Zealand's North Island. This period captures the warmest, most consistent weather, which is essential for enjoying the North Island’s water-based activities and its distinctive subtropical climate. The sea temperatures are at their highest, making the Bay of Islands, surfing beaches, and Lake Taupo most appealing. By March and April, the crowds have thinned, offering a beautiful mix of warmth and tranquility.

What to Expect

• Peak Warmth: Feel the sun's pleasant, consistent warmth on your skin as you explore the geothermal landscapes of Rotorua or the vineyards of Hawke's Bay.
• Water Sports: Experience the excitement of surfing at Raglan or kayaking to the Māori rock carvings on Lake Taupo in ideal conditions.
• Harvest Time: Taste the complex, fresh-pressed flavors of a new-vintage wine while touring the vines in Hawke's Bay.
• Clear Nights: Gaze up at a clear, warm night sky, perfect for an evening walk or outdoor dining in the Bay of Islands.

Best Months

• January
• February
• March
• April

Our New Zealand North Island itineraries have further details to inspire your trip.

The best time to visit the South Island depends on your focus. For general touring, the shoulder seasons of March to May (autumn) and September to November (spring) are best for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. However, for snow sports, July and August (winter) are optimal. The shoulder seasons offer maximum flexibility, allowing for pleasant hiking in the national parks, clear scenic drives, and the dramatic autumn foliage in places like Arrowtown and Central Otago.

What to Expect

• Vivid Colors: See the stunning contrast of snow-dusted peaks against the bright gold and crimson colors of autumn in the Wakatipu Basin.
• Road Conditions: Drive the spectacular alpine passes and Great Alpine Highway with clear, dry road surfaces, making for a relaxed and scenic journey.
• Activity Balance: Find comfortable conditions for both high-adrenaline activities like jet boating and leisurely pursuits like lakeside picnics.
• Stargazing: Experience the incredible clarity of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve in the cool, settled air of spring or autumn.

Best Months

• March
• April
• May
• September
• October

Take a look at Zicasso’s New Zealand South Island itineraries. Then, contact our travel specialists to design your trip.

New Zealand is an ultimate family destination, with autumn, from March to April, and spring, in September and October, offering the perfect mix of weather and activities. Family-friendly excursions can take you kayaking, hiking hidden trails, or searching for rare dolphins and penguins. With so many nature-based activities accessible, you can enjoy a range of adventures in the comfortable absence of summer crowds.

What to Expect

• Glowworms: Hear the collective gasp of your family in the complete, silent darkness of the Waitomo Caves, lit only by the blue-green light of thousands of glowworms.
• Wildlife: See the flash of a tiny, rare Hector's dolphin playing in the bow wave of your private boat in Akaroa.
• Kayaking: Feel the easy glide of your kayak through the turquoise, calm waters of Abel Tasman National Park, the sun warm but not intense.
• Movie Magic: Feel the smooth, cool wood of the iconic round, green door as you push it open at the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Best Months

• March
• April
• September
• October

There is no end to your family’s options with our sample New Zealand family itineraries.

The best time for couples spans the fall and spring, spreading into the early summer month of December. Romantics can find a retreat from crowds in intimate stargazing encounters, private sailing excursions, or a hot-air balloon ride with sparkling wine. Indulge in a private picnic at a celebrated vineyard, go horseback riding on a beach, or bask in a thermal pool.

What to Expect

• Private Pools: Sink into the velvety, warm, private thermal pool at your lodge, watching steam rise against a backdrop of mountains.
• Stargazing: Huddle together under a warm blanket as an astronomer points out constellations in the brilliant, clear Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky.
• Sailing: Feel the wind and light spray on a private sunset sail from Auckland, the city skyline glowing as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Vineyards: Alone among the vines, taste the difference between two vintages of pinot noir, your private picnic basket full of local cheeses.

Best Months

• March
• April
• October
• November
• December

Celebrate your time together on any of our sample New Zealand tours for couples.

For senior travelers seeking comfort, accessibility, and a relaxed pace, the shoulder seasons of fall (March to May) and spring (September to November) are highly recommended. These periods offer consistently mild temperatures, which are ideal for sightseeing, day cruises, and touring without the stress of summer crowds or winter chill. Enjoy unhurried tours, easier navigation of popular sites, and the vivid beauty of the changing landscapes.

What to Expect

• Smooth Cruises: Glide through the quiet, deep water of Milford Sound or the Marlborough Sounds, enjoying calm conditions that enhance the scenic viewing experience.
• Gentle Walks: Walk along the stunning coastal path in Abel Tasman National Park or explore lakeside trails, feeling the soft earth underfoot and enjoying the gentle, warm air.
• Uncrowded Comfort: Linger over a perfectly brewed coffee in a charming café in Queenstown or Auckland, enjoying a relaxed pace and easy access to seating.
• Geothermal Retreat: Sink into the velvety, mineral-rich water of a natural hot spring in Rotorua, the warm steam rising into the comfortably crisp autumn or spring air.

Best Months

• March
• April
• September
• October
• November

Our sample North Island Coast to Coast Tour for Seniors can take you to the heart of New Zealand.

Spring and summer, in September, October, January, and February, are perfect for seasonal activities. While visiting a museum or restaurant is a year-round affair, other excursions are weather-dependent. These months provide the best weather for things like hiking tours that define the New Zealand experience.

What to Expect

• Jet Boating: Feel the adrenaline rush and the cool, sharp spray as the jet boat executes a 360-degree spin in the narrow, sheer-walled Shotover Canyon.
• Rafting: Feel the cold shock of glacial water as you paddle hard through the rapids of the Tongariro River.
• Glamping: Wake to the sound of birdsong in a luxury tent, the air fresh and cool, before stepping out onto your private deck overlooking the wilderness.
• Island Hopping: Feel the warm sun on your skin as your private water taxi zips between the golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park.

Best Months

• September
• October
• January
• February

Activities

• Trekking
• Rafting
• Island Hopping
• Jet boating
• Glamping
• Wine Tasting

Find more inspiration in our New Zealand North Island itineraries.

The best months for fall and winter activities are March, April, May, July, and August. Temperatures shift, but outside the mountains, the climate doesn’t change dramatically. Fall and winter provide a different view of the islands and a unique set of activities, excursions, and wildlife encounters.

What to Expect

• Heli-Skiing: Feel the profound silence and isolation as your helicopter departs, leaving you on an untouched expanse of powder high in the Southern Alps.
• Hot Springs: Smell the faint, sulphurous scent of the earth as you lower yourself into a steaming, naturally heated rock pool.
• Cycling: Hear the crunch of tires on the smooth gravel of the Otago Central Rail Trail, the air crisp and the golden autumn light low in the sky.
• Wildlife: See the bright yellow eyes of an endangered penguin as it cautiously makes its way ashore at dusk in the Catlins.

Best Months

• March
• April
• May
• July
• August

Activities

• Snowboarding
• Skiing
• Whale Watching
• Nature Excursions
• Cycling Expeditions
• Hot Springs
• Wildlife Encounters

New Zealand in Summer: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, and More has plenty of information to inspire your trip.

New Zealand’s seasons experience deep and rich changes in temperature, activities, and accessibility. Knowing these differences can help you narrow down the places you want to visit and the experiences you wish to have. Each season has thrilling adventures and relaxing retreats, with plenty of things to do, like watching for whales or lounging in hot springs.

You can explore more exciting opportunities and helpful information in our New Zealand travel guide or start working with a travel specialist to plan your New Zealand tour.