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.
Be captivated by the natural beauty of New Zealand. A country with endless views, nature, friendly locals and dynamic culture. But when is the right time to visit? This question depends on what you want from your dream holiday. Since the possibilities are endless, we can help you decide.
New Zealand, fall in love at any time of the year
September to November - Springtime is picture-perfect with blooming flowers and newborn animals. Average daytime temperature: 18 °C.
December to February - is the busiest period with locals and visitors enjoying the long summer days. Average daytime temperature: 23 °C.
March to May - Stable temperatures and fewer crowds, make autumn a great time to visit. Average daytime temperature: 19 °C.
June to August - Winter is the best time to visit for snow sports enthusiasts. Average daytime temperature: 14 °C.
When is the best time to travel as a couple?
The best travel time mostly falls around the climate and what you both want. Here is a little overview of the seasons in New Zealand. They are the opposite of Europe. If you would like to know more, we would be happy to meet you and talk more about the best travel time.
Spring - September to November
Travelling in spring offers plunging waterfalls, blooming flowers and newly born animals. With fewer crowds and mild temperatures. We highly recommend travelling during this period because it is less busy and the country is in full bloom.
"My favourite time of the year to visit New Zealand is spring. You can enjoy the beautiful countryside without many other visitors."
Nicole, Travel specialist
Summer - December to February
The summer months are the busiest, with not only international visitors but also New Zealanders on their summer holidays. They love to spend time outdoors at lakes, beaches and in national parks. We recommend travelling outside of these months. Especially during the Christmas holidays. It is also the most expensive period to visit New Zealand.
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!
Did you know?
New Zealand is the first country in the world to see the sunrise. If you want to be the first, head to the small surf town of Gisborne on the North Island’s East Cape.
Start your journey here
Feel free to join one of our informative one-hour presentations about New Zealand, hosted by Ben.
Visit a destination day
Autumn - March to May
Autumn has stable temperatures, perfect for hiking and kayaking. Warm and inviting colours can be adored. The season starts in March, with some regions averaging 27 degrees. It is the perfect month to visit the vineyards because the lush grapes are now bountiful. The season ends in May, and now you will feel it getting crispier and need to wear some extra layers.
Winter - June to August
Do you love snow-sports? Winter would be a great time to travel to experience life up the mountain. Feel like you have the country to yourselves with barely any other tourists around. During this period, the rain falls regularly too. It is the perfect time for walks in nature and an assortment of bike rides.
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.
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Useful facts
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 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.
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 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.
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.
Get inspired
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.
Discover more about travelling with your partner
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