Located in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand's seasons are the opposite of those here in the UK - with the hottest months being January and February, and the coldest months July and August. But if you're wondering which season is best to visit, you've come to the right place!
New Zealand's weather is similar to that of the UK, where you can experience all four seasons in just one day - however, in terms of temperature, North Island, being closer to the Equator, has a subtropical climate, so it is warmer and sunnier, as for South Island, being closer to the Antarctic, it is naturally slightly cooler.
Still, some parts of New Zealand can receive up to 2,000 hours of sunshine per year - an upgrade from the mere 1,400 hours here in the UK - with a few of the sunniest places being Nelson, Blenheim, and Christchurch in the South Island, and Bay of Plenty, Tauranga, Auckland, and Wellington in the North Island.
Yet, we can't talk about the sun without mentioning the rain - although rain can happen all year round, it is most likely to occur during autumn and winter.
But we're Brits, and the rain doesn't really bother us after all - besides, after the rain comes the fun, as one of the most iconic natural phenomena occurs in Fiordland National Park, with the formation of endless natural waterfalls - a truly incredible sight that must be witnessed!
We've said it before, and we'll say it again: spring is one of the best times of the year to visit New Zealand. The vibrant and colourful lupins in bloom are a sight to behold, as are the cute baby animals that have only just been born across the country.
And having lived in New Zealand for so long means that we know - and can tell you - that it is waterfall season - one of the most breathtaking natural phenomena that occurs across New Zealand at this time of the year. A result of the snow melting and filling the falls with rushing, cascading waters!
All of New Zealand is best seen in spring, as both islands are at their most stunning and welcoming as they begin waking from their wintertime rest - making spring attractive to outdoor enthusiasts and leisure aficionados alike.
One of our favourite places to visit in spring is the Fiordland National Park, especially Milford and Doubtful Sound - one of nature's most jaw-dropping places, to be visited at a time when there are hardly any tourists around, meaning you can truly take in the breathtaking surrounding scenery, without interruptions.
There is something about New Zealand in summer that is just special and magical. The long days and carefree nights, the sun shinning upon the most striking and rugged of landscapes, and the slow-paced celebratory feeling in the air just make New Zealand even more appealing and welcoming.
While all of New Zealand can be visited in summer, if it's the crystal clear lakes and the stunning beaches that call out to you, then there are plenty of water activities to engage in.
Now, if you're a feet firmly on the ground kind of traveller, then New Zealand in summer has so much to offer, such as hikes, bush walks, cultural experiences, wine tastings - you name it, it's all possible.
But can we let you in on a secret? While it is peak season down under, and most places tend to be crowded at this time of the year - if you're looking to visit New Zealand in summer, we know just where to send you so you can enjoy the country as if you were travelling in shoulder season.
Alongside spring, autumn is one of our favourite and best times of the year to visit New Zealand.
A spectacle of natural colours from the north all the way to the south, it's places like Arrowtown that provide some of the most striking autumn displays, with stunning trees bursting with every shade of yellow, orange, and red.
In terms of weather, this is one of the most amenable times of the year to visit, with temperatures averaging between seven and 21 degrees.
One of the best places to visit in autumn is Marlborough Sounds. This intricate maze of remote inlets, forests, golden sand beaches and bays - is one of the best spots for outdoor enthusiasts and wine lovers alike, offering both exciting activities such as kayaking and mountain biking, as well as leisurely walks among the vineyards and wine tasting sessions.
New Zealand in winter is something else altogether - with snow-capped mountains, sunshine, and bright blue skies - it’s an endless array of breathtaking natural sights and outdoor playgrounds.
With the awe-inspiring scenery and friendly local hosts and guides keen to share their slice of heaven with you, the slow-paced tempo, and so few people around, you may feel like you have the whole country to yourself - unless you are in a ski resort, of course!
On the North Island, temperatures are a lot higher, between ten and 16 degrees; at the same time, on the South Island, it can snow and freeze during winter, making it ideal for winter activities in places such as the Central Plateau, Canterbury, and Central Otago regions.
If you're dreaming of visiting New Zealand we know the places where you can find the sun and pleasant temperatures even during wintertime. Come and talk to us when it's convenient for you; we're available every day - and let TravelEssence make your dream holiday a reality.
We offer regular online presentations. Get to know New Zealand a little better. And see if you like what we offer and what we can offer you. It’s free, of course, and no obligation. You can find our next online presentations here.
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Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
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