With breathtaking natural beauty covering every inch of this small country, New Zealand’s motto 100% Pure is pretty accurate.
As well as the impressive landscapes, you’ll fall in love with the laid-back and friendly Kiwis, cosmopolitan cities with trendy bars and restaurants, indigenous Maori culture, golden beaches and award-winning vineyards.
As of August 2021, New Zealand’s borders remain closed to tourists, but we are hopeful they will reopen in early 2022. This is why we recommend booking a trip from July 2022 onwards for the best chance of departing.
So, if you are considering a trip down south, we got the inside scoop on when is the best time to visit New Zealand from our own Matt Doidge, a representative of the Australia Tourist Board and specialist in the Oceania region.
When is the best time to visit New Zealand?
First things first, it’s important to point out that New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite to those in the UK. For example, if you were to visit New Zealand in July hoping to enjoy the summer, you’ll actually be visiting in the middle of winter!
January – March
January through to March is a great time to visit New Zealand as the weather is still warm, although often wet. However, finding availability for accommodations in some of the more remote locations can be challenging, so booking early is the key here to avoid disappointment.
If you are keen on soaking in the hot springs in Rotorua, January through March is also the best time to visit the region, when temperatures hover around a pleasant 21°C.
March – May
Beautiful Fjordland in southwestern New Zealand is worth a visit all year round. However, if you want to spot wildlife such as yellow-eyed and blue penguins, albatrosses, sea lions, and fur seals, then going Between March – May is advisable.
As the weather begins to cool down, you can enjoy uncrowded hiking trails (known as tramping) and witness the foliage change from green to golden yellows and reds.
June – October
Ski bunnies will love visiting New Zealand in their winter months. The south island has plenty of world-class ski resorts with stunning views of snow-capped mountains & beautiful lush green landscapes.
As well as snow sports, winter is also the best time to visit Franz Josef or Fox Glacier. Apart from it being less crowded, the decreased surface melt on the glacier will make it all the more striking to look at.
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November – December
In New Zealand, summer runs from December to February and temperatures can vary from 14 to 28 °C. So, if you want to enjoy warm temperatures, hit the beach, and get plenty of sunshine, the best time to visit New Zealand is in summer, which is also the high season.
“My favourite time to go is November, The weather is mostly nice, the prices are lower and the freedom to travel is much easier as most people are looking to wait for the Christmas holidays to head out to New Zealand.”
-Matt Doidge, Australia, New Zealand and Oceania specialist
Book New Zealand 2024 now
As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, pent-up demand will see New Zealand flights and hotels sell out early for 2024 departures. Speak to us about booking early to avoid disappointment.
New Zealand inspiration
For more exciting destination ideas, browse these New Zealand pages and start planning your next adventure.
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