New Zealand in March: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

With pleasant fall weather and fewer crowds, New Zealand is an excellent destination to visit in March.

The summer rush dies down, yet temperatures remain mild across the North and South Islands, typically ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. Showers become less frequent and the landscape turns shades of gold, crimson, and copper.

From hiking trails with views of vibrant vine-covered hills in wine regions to scenic drives past colorful beech forests, the start of fall in March showcases New Zealand's landscapes at their finest.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit New Zealand

During March in New Zealand, temperatures are relatively mild across most of the country. On the North Island, average high and low temperatures range from 68°F to 52°F. On the South Island, where the climate tends to be cooler, especially in inland areas, temperatures average 63°F and 43°F.

Alpine regions like Queenstown on the South Island start to get quite cold, even in March, though the temperatures are still more manageable than in the heart of winter. If you plan to visit the Fiordland or Southern Lakes districts, bring warm and comfortable clothing that’s suitable for exploring the fiords or partaking in alpine adventures.

Auckland • Best Place for Sightseeing

Auckland is a vibrant urban city with plenty for travelers to enjoy in March, from walking tours of historic neighborhoods to enjoying views of the Viaduct Harbour. From the iconic Sky Tower, with its 360-degree views of the city and harbor below, to fascinating museums highlighting Māori and Pacific Island cultures, Auckland brims with exciting attractions.

Tour the Auckland Domain’s expansive parks and gardens, walk along pristine coastal paths, or take a short ferry ride to explore island vineyards and black-sand beaches. With its melting pot of cultures and dynamic urban energy set against a backdrop of volcanic peaks and island scenery, sightseeing in Auckland makes for an unforgettable experience in March.

Learn more: Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

The Bay of Islands • Best Place for Great Weather

As one of the warmest and sunniest regions in New Zealand during fall, the Bay of Islands offers idyllic weather for travelers in March. Average high temperatures reach into the mid-70s Fahrenheit, allowing comfortable days to enjoy the Bay's turquoise waters and abundant marine life.

This subtropical climate means less rainfall, allowing for plentiful sunshine and clear skies as you island hop to secluded coves with few tourists. The moderate temperatures also extend evenings outdoors, when you can dine al fresco at waterfront restaurants or sip local wines aboard a sunset cruise.

Rotorua • Best Place for Families with Children

As the heart of New Zealand's Māori culture, Rotorua offers families an interactive glimpse into indigenous traditions, geothermal wonders, and outdoor adventures. Kids can learn ceremonial dances, hear ancient folklore, and taste a traditional, earth-cooked hangi feast.

Families can also marvel at bubbling mud pools and geysers at geothermal parks like Te Puia before mountain biking through lush forests. With its diverse landscape, engaging cultural experiences, and hands-on activities, Rotorua makes for a life-enriching family vacation in March.

Learn more: New Zealand Family Itineraries

Dunedin • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Sitting on the southeast coast of New Zealand's South Island, the harbor city of Dunedin sees fewer tourists in March than hotspots like Queenstown and Christchurch. Without overwhelming crowds, visitors have ample space to explore Dunedin’s vibrant mix of urban attractions and striking natural landscapes at their pace.

Climb towering dunes on windswept beaches, wander through the country’s finest Victorian and Edwardian architecture in urban centers, and trek through abundant wildlife reserves and penguin colonies on the Otago Peninsula. The city also boasts New Zealand’s steepest street and some of the best-preserved historic buildings.

Queenstown • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

Known as New Zealand's adventure capital, Queenstown transforms into a romantic haven during the colorful fall months. Without summertime crowds, couples can soak up majestic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range in solitude.

Meander through Queenstown Gardens hand-in-hand, sample pinot noirs at intimate vineyards, or relax in secluded hot springs. Adrenaline junkies can also bungy jump or zipline together before cozying up in front of a crackling fireplace at a luxury lodge. With picture-perfect fall foliage set against breathtaking alpine backdrops, Queenstown delivers an idyllic getaway for couples and honeymooners in March.

Learn more: New Zealand Tours for Couples

Watch Penguin Colonies on the Otago Peninsula

The Otago Peninsula offers glimpses of thriving penguin colonies without massive crowds. View the rare yellow-eyed penguin or see hundreds of little blue penguins return at dusk after a day of fishing. Expert guides lead private tours of hidden coves and rocky beaches prime for spotting penguins in their natural habitat.

Indulge in Luxury Wine Tasting Experiences

Discover acclaimed wine regions like Waiheke, Hawke's Bay, and Marlborough through luxurious tasting experiences that pair award-winning wines with gourmet bites, from cheese platters to lavish, multicourse meals. Small boutique vineyards off the main wine trails provide intimate tastings in vine-covered chateaus and barrel rooms.

Explore Vibrant Māori Culture at a Hangi Feast

Experience a mouthwatering hangi dinner where meats, vegetables, and more are cooked underground the traditional Māori way. Enjoy live music and cultural performances like the haka war dance, learn poi ball skills, or listen to ancient tales that share legends of New Zealand.

Hike Past Golden Fall Foliage in Fiordland

Fiordland's hiking trails transform each fall with vibrant foliage spreading across mountain valleys and the shores of glacier-carved lakes. Breathtaking lookouts allow you to immerse yourself in the kaleidoscope of colors decorating beech forests and hillsides.

Swim with Dolphins in the Bay of Islands

This subtropical region provides opportunities to spot pods of dolphins. Professional guides lead private coastal tours during which you can snorkel alongside these beautiful creatures and observe them frolicking freely in crystal-clear waters.

As the summer crowds and heat die down while fall's beauty emerges, March proves to be an exceptional time for a New Zealand trip. The pleasant weather allows you to comfortably explore both main islands, from the harbors of Auckland to the fiords of the South, with our New Zealand tours offering inspiration for your custom trip.

For more inspiration on planning your ultimate New Zealand escape, explore insights and helpful travel information in our New Zealand travel guide.