Best Times to Visit New Zealand

Known for its fjords, mountains, lupin fields, and forests, New Zealand is more than just a beautiful destination. Kiwis are known for having a sense of adventure, a love of the outdoors, and an easygoing vibe. It’s also a place with rich heritage and hospitality traditions rooted in the Māori value of manaakitanga — a tradition of care, respect, and generosity. Whether you’re drawn to breathtaking landscapes, local culture, or the world-famous sauvignon blanc, the island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean has something for every traveler.  

Thrill seekers and outdoorsy types will find plenty to do throughout the year. Keen to experience the gorgeous beaches and alpine lakes? The peak summer months offer warm weather and blue skies. Spring and fall are also lovely for outdoor activities and spotting wildlife such as migrating whales and native penguins. Budget travelers might want to journey to New Zealand during the winter lull for more favorable rates. Snow bunnies will want to beeline it to the Queenstown Lakes and Canterbury regions for the best skiing conditions in the Southern Hemisphere, according to Sarah Handley, general manager of the Americas and Europe at Tourism New Zealand. 

• High Season: December to February
• Shoulder Seasons: March to May and September to November
• Low Season: June to August

Read on to learn about the best times to visit New Zealand for good weather, smaller crowds, outdoor adventures, and more. 

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds 

Those looking for smaller crowds should consider planning a trip to New Zealand during the fall shoulder season (March to May). “You’ll still enjoy warm days through April, which allows visitors to take advantage of outdoor activities and nature exploration while being surrounded by fall foliage and fewer tourists,” says Handley. “Visitors can take in breathtaking views of the South Coast on New Zealand’s newest Great Walk, the Hump Ridge Track, and savor the harvest with intimate vineyard tours in Marlborough, the famous sauvignon blanc region.” With cooler nights, clearer skies, and minimal light pollution in autumn, it’s also a great time of year for stargazing at Kawarau Gibbston Dark Sky Park. “In addition to stellar views of the Milky Way, there are opportunities to learn about the destination’s rich cultural history through Māori astronomy.”

Best Times to Visit for Good Weather  

For the best weather, Air New Zealand general manager of the Americas Ben Evers-Swindell recommends visiting during the summer months (December to February). This period supplies warm weather (daytime temperatures range from 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) and extended daylight hours, which makes it ideal for enjoying New Zealand’s beautiful beaches, such as those in the Bay of Islands or Abel Tasman National Park as well as Orewa, just outside of Auckland. It’s also prime for hiking iconic trails like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or the Routeburn Track. Lake activities in Queenstown or Rotorua are particularly inviting, thanks to the sunny weather. “Because summer is also the peak tourist season, it’s essential to plan and book in advance to secure accommodations and experiences.”

Handley encourages travelers to think about a spring trip. “It’s a brilliant time for cruising Milford Sound, encountering hatch season for native kiwi birds, relaxing at the hot springs, and seeing colorful blooms.”

Best Times to Visit for Lower Prices 

Winter (June to August) sees reduced demand, especially outside ski destinations like Queenstown. During this period, airfare, accommodations, and tour prices tend to drop. Cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are less crowded. “Rates tend to be reasonable and many attractions offer discounts to entice visitors,” notes Evers-Swindell. While the weather is cooler, the North Island’s temperate climate ensures a comfortable visit.  

Best Times to Visit for Outdoor Adventures 

 “New Zealand is a year-round destination for adventure tourism, and each season has something unique,” says Handley.  In autumn (March to May), the cooler weather is ideal for hiking one of the 11 Great Walks for unparalleled access to New Zealand’s most incredible natural landscapes, wildlife, and cultural history. “Winter (June to August) brings peak skiing and snowboarding conditions, with Queenstown and Wanaka as the go-to spots for snow enthusiasts.” Spring (September to November) and summer (December to February) are fantastic for water-based activities. You can kayak through glowworm-lit canyons in Tauranga, tackle the sky-high waterfall cable climb in Wanaka, and swim in pristine lakes. 

Worst Times to Visit New Zealand  

Because of its four-season appeal, there’s no bad time to visit New Zealand. With that said, certain factors might make some periods less ideal depending on your travel preferences. For example, the peak holiday period (late December to early January) is very busy for both domestic and international travel, so that tends to drive up prices and make popular attractions a bit more crowded. 

Mid-winter (July to August) means cooler temperatures, especially in the South Island where snow and icy roads often become part of the equation, limiting access to certain trails and attractions. On the flip side, it’s also the perfect season for snow sports enthusiasts.