Complete Guideline for the Best Time to Visit New Zealand

Traveloka Team
25 Mar 2024 - 4 min read

Having amazing natural charm makes New Zealand the best place to explore various landscapes. Starting from soft sandy beaches to majestic mountains covered in snow in winter. Adventure fans may be obliged to try various adrenaline-pumping rides such as bungee jumping and hiking.

With 4 seasons in New Zealand, you certainly have many choices for vacation time. But New Zealand's main attraction, which offers the charm of outdoor tourism, might make you have to look for the right time. Check out the following review to find out the best time to visit New Zealand.

Best Time to Visit New Zealand

1. Summer (December - February)

The best time to visit New Zealand is in summer where the hot sun is the perfect time to sunbathe. The beach will be quite busy this season as well as being a warm paradise with its beautiful panoramic charm.

Apart from that, you can also do other interesting activities such as paragliding, hiking, trekking, snorkeling or cycling. Hot weather will probably make you sweat a lot so make sure to wear comfortable clothes.

Don't miss out on taking part in various kinds of competitions in February, including marathon races. There are also several other events held in the summer such as the Marlborough Wine Festival and Rugby Sevens.

2. Autumn (March - May)

If you are not comfortable with hot weather, autumn, which is a transition to winter, could be an option. The average temperature in these months ranges from 17 degrees to 23 degrees Celsius.

The warm sunshine with cool breeze makes it the perfect time for mountain climbing and camping. Especially during the peak of winter when the leaves have started to change color which makes the view even more beautiful.

In May there is the Bluff Oyster Festival where you can enjoy various foods with wine and musical accompaniment. Then every two years on Easter weekend there is the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow on the South Island.

3. Winter (June - August)

As with winter in general, these months will be filled with snow and temperatures can drop to negative. Skiing on low, gentle slopes is the most popular activity during the winter. Winter is also a great time to take a glacier tour at points such as Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier. Don't miss out on taking part in the excitement of several festivals including the Queenstown Winter Festival.

North Island areas such as Rotorua and the Bay of Islands are relatively popular because the weather is cooler than the south. But you still have to visit the South Island when the humpback whales pass through Kaikoura on their way north to warmer waters.

4. Spring (September - November)

Spring is marked by the snow melting and the sun shining brighter, making the days longer. The trees were starting to turn green and many flowers were blooming along the road. At the beginning of spring, you might still be able to find remnants of snow in certain locations.

September is also a great time to see newborn lambs in the fields and orcas dotting the coastline. Outdoor activities that can be done in spring are quite similar to autumn. Starting from snorkeling, scuba diving, to paragliding. It's just that you can wear more casual clothes because spring tends to be warmer than autumn.

Best Hotels in New Zealand

1. Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park is the best hotel choice in Southland with stunning views of Lake Te Anau. This hotel has hot tub facilities, picnic area, garden, barbecue, other basic room facilities, and airport shuttle service for tourists who need it. The hotel is also close to many family friendly attractions such as Te Anau Wildlife Center and Fiordland Cinema.

Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels

8.6/10

77 Manapouri - Te Anau...

See Price

2. Novotel Christchurch Airport

Novotel Christchurch Airport is a hotel in Canterbury which is only less than 1 km from the airport. The spacious rooms and complete facilities are very comfortable for staying while waiting for the plane to depart. The facilities at this hotel, which is very close to the International Antarctic Center, are also quite complete, including spacious rooms, a garden, fitness center and bar.

Novotel Christchurch Airport

9.2/10

30 Durey Road,Christch...

See Price

3. Quality Hotel Oceans Tutukaka

Invite your family to vacation at the Quality Hotel Oceans Tutukaka which has beautiful views and complete facilities. Starting from an outdoor pool, barbecue, picnic area, library, there is even a swimming pool for children.

Quality Hotel Oceans Tutukaka

1 Marina Drive, Rd3

See Price

4. Rainforest Retreat

Rainforest Retreat is a four-star hotel which has a unique concept because it seems to be at one with nature. Moreover, its location which is very close to the West Coast Wildlife Center could be an option for staying with the family. The facilities available are also quite complete because there is a hot tub, picnic area, garden, barbecue, sauna, bar and terrace.

Rainforest Retreat

9/10

46 Cron Street

See Price

5. Chateau Marlborough Hotel

If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Marlborough, come to the Chateau Marlborough Hotel which is near Seymour Square. This hotel has a large swimming pool equipped with beach umbrellas and a poolside bar. There are also other facilities such as a fitness center, spa, garden and picnic area.

Chateau Marlborough Hotel

Cnr High and Henry Str...

See Price

New Zealand has many interesting places that must be visited with their unique culture and people's lives. There are many season options that you can choose to visit. However, keep in mind that during the peak holiday season there will be more tourists.

Therefore, immediately plan a holiday to New Zealand now by booking a hotel on Traveloka. By booking hotels and holiday needs in advance you can get the best prices. What are you waiting for? Don't miss out on discounts and various attractive promotions by ordering all your holiday needs now!

Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
Always Know the Latest Info
Subscribe to our newsletter for more travel & lifestyle recommendations and exciting promos.
Subscribe