All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
New Zealand is glorious all year round. It’s a country that doesn’t only need sunny, summer days to make it look good. In fact, each season allows you to see New Zealand in a different light, from a different viewpoint.
In general, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are a great time to visit as a solo traveller. Spring brings baby lambs and the first dip in the sea. The summer warmth still lingers in autumn, for a perfect day hiking or kayaking. These months are easier on your budget, so you can focus less on paying for costly accommodation and more on investing in experiences that will make for a fulfilling journey. They are also less busy, so you can still get in the occasional group activity while not sacrificing your peace and quiet.
The glorious seasons of New Zealand
September to November - Spring means alpine flowers, baby lambs and the first swims in the sea in the north. Average daytime temperature: 18 °C. Shoulder season.
December to February - The long, sunny days of summer make it the busiest period in New Zealand with both locals and visitors. Average daytime temperature: 23 °C. High season.
March to May - Enjoy fewer crowds, mild temperatures and warm autumn colours in full bloom. Average daytime temperature: 19 °C. Shoulder season.
June to August - Spend your days up the mountain. Winter is a great time for skiers and snowboarders. Average daytime temperature: 14 °C. Low season aside from the ski areas.
Watch out for the sun.
Because New Zealand is in the middle of the ocean, the temperatures usually remain pleasant. But don't let that fool you. The New Zealand sun is hot and, out of the wind, you will feel it burn. Please wear a hat and sunscreen.
Spring - September to November
Be welcomed by bright, blooming flowers and trees, newly born animals and lush rolling hills. We highly recommend travelling in spring with fewer crowds, moderate temperatures and better rates. Spring is full of surprises. The magnificent waterfalls of New Zealand come to life and it’s the perfect time to visit the vineyards too.
Summer - December to February
New Zealanders are generally active and love to spend time outdoors during the sunny summer months. Especially around the water, at lakes and on the beach, and exploring national parks. Most locals take their holidays over the Christmas and New Years period, and with a high amount of international visitors, this is the busiest period in New Zealand.
Autumn - March to May
Autumn is the perfect time to visit New Zealand. With the summer warmth still lingering, the moderate and pleasurable temperatures are great for exploring. Go hiking, kayaking or visit national parks with less crowds. By May, the evenings will be a little more chilly so don’t forget to pack warmer clothing!
"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
Winter - June to August
Visitors from around the globe come to experience New Zealand’s mountains. Winter Olympians often spend their off-season enjoying New Zealand winters. If you love snowsports and enjoy fewer tourists, then winter is a great time to visit. Cardrona, The Remarkables, and Treble Cone are some of our favourite ski fields.
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.
Good to know
We recommend to visit New Zealand's farmer's markets. It is a great place to sample and purchase seasonal artisan delicacies and meet the locals.
Did you know?
New Zealand has the 9th longest coastline in the world, with a length of 15,134 km. That means there is plenty of beaches to explore!
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Useful facts
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The Catlins is an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand - where the countryside meets the wild ocean. Tucked away in the south-east of the South Island, this hidden gem is a nature wonderland. Rolling hills dotted with sheep, lush rainforest and remote coastline, featuring some of the best surf in the country.
New Zealand's climate
New Zealand has a moderate maritime climate, with a difference between north and south. Because the North Island is closer to the equator, it is warmer there than on the South Island. However, as most of New Zealand is close to the coastline, means mild temperatures all year round.
The weather conditions in New Zealand can be unpredictable. And it is often said that in New Zealand, you can experience four seasons in one day. It’s possible to have snow, rain and sunshine all in one day! Be prepared for all weather conditions by packing lots of layers and a rain jacket.
Seasonal activities
Is it your dream to hike the Milford Track? Or climb Mount Cook? Depending on which activities you would like to do in New Zealand, depends on when the best travel time is. Because some of your dream activities may be only available seasonal. If you do have an activity on your bucket list, let’s sit down and have a chat about it together. We will ensure you won’t miss out on your experience of a lifetime.
New Zealand's wine regions
New Zealand is a food and wine destination for discerning foodies. With a world reputation for producing award-winning locally grown produce. This young country has come of age as a producer of internationally acclaimed wines. With an ideal climate for wine growing, there are six major grape growing regions which are all surrounded by alluring landscapes.
Marlborough, at the top of the South Island, is New Zealand’s largest wine-producing region. Marlborough has a varied selection of Sauvignon Blanc wines that have gained worldwide recognition. However, there is also Central Otago, Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Wairarapa and Canterbury. New Zealand's is home to the world’s most southerly vineyards.
New Zealand's lakes
New Zealand has several beautiful lakes. Most were caused by the scouring effect of ice during the ice age and the melting of glacial ice. The clear blue colour of the water and the magical surroundings of mountains, should not be missed when you visit New Zealand.
Admire the clear waters of Lake Tekapo, see the flooded crater of Lake Taupo and spot special bird species around Lake Waikaremoana. By the way, did you also know that Lake Taupo is the largest lake in all of Australasia?
You can comfortably board a boat or hop in a kayak to discover all the secrets of New Zealand’s water world. In and around the lakes, it is possible to participate in various activities, such as fishing, swimming or hiking.
New Zealand's time zones
New Zealand is divided into two time zones. New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) and Chatham Standard Time (CST). The North and South Island use NZST and the nearby Chatham Islands use CST. During the summer months, daylight saving hours are observed and the clocks are put forward one hour. This occurs from the last Sunday in September till the first Sunday in April.
All the things you love
and none of the things you don't
Our local knowledge makes the difference for your bespoke holiday through New Zealand or Australia. Your journey Down Under starts here.
Contact us
We would love to discuss your dream journey