March to May are New Zealand’s autumn months. While temperatures are a little cooler than summer, the weather can be excellent, and it is possible to swim in some places until April. While New Zealand’s native flora is evergreen, there are many introduced deciduous trees. Colourful changing leaves make autumn a scenic delight, especially in regions such as Central Otago and Hawke’s Bay, which are known for their autumn splendour. Calm settled weather, vibrant colour-filled landscapes and a long list of seasonally charged events make autumn a prime time to visit New Zealand. While the country settles into an après-summer phase where business is in full swing, parliament sitting and school back in session - visitors have free reign to explore at leisure. With pleasant temperatures, inviting water and easy access to top holiday spots, March and April are key months particularly for tourists from the Northern Hemisphere. New Zealand is renowned for exquisite light at this time o...

New Zealand’s winter months of June to August bring colder weather to much of the country, and more rain to most areas in the North Island. Mountain ranges in both islands become snow-covered, providing beautiful vistas and excellent skiing. While the South Island has cooler winter temperatures, some areas of the island experience little rainfall in winter, so this is an excellent time to visit glaciers, mountains, and other areas of scenic beauty. New Zealand goes into overdrive during winter as crisp blue skies, steaming geothermal pools and vibrant festivals enliven the country from north to south. The New Zealand ski season runs from June to August. The North and South islands both have world-class ski fields set in spectacular scenery. And there’s just as much excitement off the slopes. Rotorua, in the central North Island, sizzles with relaxing, hot mineral pools, while in the South Island, Queenstown celebrates with a series of fun-filled winter festivals. New Zealand...

Spring lasts from September to November, and New Zealand’s spring weather can range from cold and frosty to warm and hot. During spring buds, blossoms, and other new growth bursts forth throughout the country and new born lambs frolic in the fields just before dusk.. Both Alexandra in Central Otago and Hastings in Hawke’s Bay celebrate spring with a blossom festival. If you’re into white water rafting, this is the time when melting spring snow makes river water levels excitingly high! Spring in New Zealand unfurls like the country’s iconic koru - the spiraling fern frond. Shaking off its winter coat to reveal lush greens, crystal sharp blues and snow-capped mountains, the country revels in the warming temperatures and lengthening days. Kiwis will head outdoors to make the most of this vibrant time of year. The country feels fresh and ready for new adventures. The national events calendar is packed with a variety of experiences to tempt the curious visitor. The acclaimed ...