In New Zealand, the high season occurs twice a year. The first high season is in December and January, during the warm summer months. The second high season is in June and July, the coldest months when snow blankets the mountain slopes, and the ski season begins. The low season in New Zealand falls in early spring, which is March and April (considered local fall), and November (considered local spring).
When is the best time to vacation in New Zealand? Both the North Island and South Island enjoy a temperate maritime climate with moderately heavy rainfall and many sunny days throughout the year. New Zealand's climate is influenced by two primary geographical features: the mountains and the sea. The mountain ranges that run the length of New Zealand act as a barrier to westerly winds and create distinctly different climatic regions.
New Zealand is known for its changeable weather, influenced by fronts and tropical cyclones. Temperatures generally decrease as you travel south. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between +20-30°C, while in winter, it ranges between +10-15°C. Average rainfall is relatively uniform throughout the year, with the northern and central regions receiving the most rain in winter, while the south experiences its driest months during winter.
When is it more affordable to fly to New Zealand? Spring and fall are typically less expensive times to visit. These seasons, while excellent for sightseeing, are less popular for ski and beach vacations. Many hotels offer discounts during this period, and airlines often provide more economical flight options.
Holidays in New Zealand in winter
The weather in New Zealand in winter is not excessively hot, even though it's summertime. Temperatures rarely exceed +30°C, and there may be some rainfall. January is typically the warmest month during this season. Winter is an ideal time for activities such as diving, sailing, and camping. It's a great time to visit places like Taranaki, Rotorua, and Christchurch. However, there are no strict restrictions, and any part of both islands is worth visiting during the winter months. You can also find information about seaside resorts and beach vacations in this section.
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Holidays in New Zealand in spring
The weather in New Zealand in spring is cool, and March can be quite rainy as the country transitions into autumn, despite the familiar names of the spring months. By mid-spring, temperatures drop, and you may experience flat and cold winds, especially in the mountains. You can start your excursions from colorful Picton or head to Kingston on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. By the end of May, most of the country's mountain ski resorts are open.
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New Zealand summer vacations
Contrary to many countries in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand opens its ski season during summer. The weather in New Zealand in summer is cool with an average of around +10°C in the valleys and on the coasts, while the mountains can be quite windy and cold. You can visit Huakapapa and Turoa ski resorts on the slopes of Ruapehu volcano or explore the South Island in New Zealand's Southern Alps, where numerous ski centers are open throughout the country. Find more information in the section dedicated to mountain ski vacations. Alternatively, consider a shopping tour in Auckland or visit the country's capital, Wellington. The city of Christchurch is enjoyable at any time of year.
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Holidays in New Zealand in the fall
The weather in New Zealand in the fall generally corresponds to the idea of a proper spring. Everything that can bloom is in bloom, trees that have shed their leaves for the winter are green, the air is clear, and the sky is bright. Temperatures range from +7 to +17°C in the North Island and +5 to +17°C in the South Island. It's windy in Wellington but quite warm when the sun comes out.
You can choose any of the country's sightseeing cities and go from there to the country's nature reserves, visit the movie Hobbiton or the capital's museums. You can swim in late spring by targeting the country's eastern shores, facing the warmer Tasman Sea. The Pacific Ocean is slightly cooler on the eastern side.
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When is the best time to go to New Zealand thus depends on your plans. Skiing has its own season, diving can be done all year round, swimming is preferable in summer, sightseeing can be done at any time of year, but it's best to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
