When to visit New Zealand
Introduction
New Zealand experiences a moderate, maritime climate, though there are some differences in temperature and rainfall between north and south, east and west.
The South Island experiences a more temperate climate than the North and is generally cooler - summer highs (December to February) reach the low 20s, whilst during the winter months (June to August) temperatures can drop to freezing or below. Snow is as likely to fall in lower regions as it is in the UK - once or twice a year - but the Southern Alps receive a good layer of snow throughout the winter, perfect for winter sports. They also act as a rain barrier to the eastern side of the island as westerly prevailing winds suck up moisture from the Tasman Sea and release it as they rise over the Alps. This means that the West Coast and Fjordland are among the wettest places in the world - Hokitika monthly average rainfall is 240mm, Christchurch by comparison is just 53mm.
By contrast, North Island experiences a more tropical climate. It's warmer than the south, and humid summers slip less noticeably into milder winters. Central North Island still experiences some snowfall in the winter, making it popular with skiers and snowboarders.
As long as you don't mind a little rain, New Zealand is easily visited at any time of year. Most international tourists stick to the shoulder seasons - October, November and April - when attractions are considerably quieter given that most New Zealanders are at work or school during those periods.
New Zealand's South Island
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Summer (November to March), spring and early autumn are fine times to visit the South Island with flowering meadows, mild temperatures and plentiful native wildlife. Nelson and Marlborough, with their sand-fringed islands and idyllic coastal stretches, are two of New Zealand’s sunniest spots. At the height of winter, the ski resorts around Queenstown and Wanaka – the Remarkables, Treble Cone and Coronet Peak – draw big crowds.
New Zealand's North Island
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The North Island can be visited year-round although most people arrive in the summer (December to March) when the weather is at its warmest. If you’re planning a Christmas break then book early as hotels in the most popular spots fill up fast. October, November and March are mild, while winter brings more rainfall to lower lying regions. Head for the hills, however, and there’s some decent skiing to be had at Mt. Ruapehu near Taupo.
Rotorua, Taupo & Coromandel
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Queenstown & Wanaka
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Milford Sound & Fiordland
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Auckland
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Top of the South Island
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Northland & Bay of Islands
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New Zealand's West Coast & Southern Alps
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New Zealand's East Coast
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Dunedin & Otago
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Wellington
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