Reading time: 5 minutes
January – Queenstown (South Island)
Kick off the year in Queenstown, where summer is in full swing. Known as the adrenalin capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is the place to go for bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving against the backdrop of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. Hiking and biking are spectacular here in summer, and when the day is spent, kick back and have some fun in the bustling streets, bars, and restaurants of Queenstown.
Be sure to take a day trip to the nearby settlement of Glenorchy. The drive is stunning, and the scenery is otherworldly (parts of The Lord of the Rings were filmed here). Pack a picnic and spend a peaceful day relaxing on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
February – Abel Tasman National Park (South Island)
February is ideal for exploring Abel Tasman National Park’s pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Book a guided sea kayak tour and explore the coastline, sprawl out on the beach in one of the secluded coves, or take on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, known as one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. The 60km, one-way walk can be done over 3-5 days, and is a brilliant way to see this stunning national park. Just be sure to check the tides before you go and book ahead to stay in the simple huts en route.
March – Rotorua (North Island)
Visitors have been drawn to Rotorua’s thermal waters since the mid-19th century to bathe in the hot pools along the edge of Lake Rotorua. Soak your worries away before exploring bubbling mud pools, geysers and steaming lakes. Rotorua is also a hub for Māori culture with cultural tours and traditional performances. Don’t miss the Redwoods Treewalk, with walkways and platforms suspended 6-20 metres above the forest floor. At night, 34 lanterns designed by NZ artisan David Trubridge make the experience even more magical.
April – Fiordland National Park (South Island)
April brings stunning autumn colours to Fiordland National Park and crisp air ideal for hiking (bring layers and a raincoat). A day or overnight cruise through Milford or Doubtful Sound will reveal majestic cliffs, cascading waterfalls and mirror-like waters that will take your breath away. Three of New Zealand's Great Walks are found in Fiordland (Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn), and there are day walks aplenty. Accommodation ranges from motels and cottages to luxury lodges – these book out up to a year ahead, and bookings are needed for huts and campsites in Great Walks season (Nov-April).
May – Wellington (North Island)
Known as the Windy City, Wellington is a walkable city with a vibrant arts and food scene, beautiful waterfront and fun, urban vibe. Visit Te Papa Museum for a world-class collection of cultural artifacts, artworks and interactive exhibits; see a play or musical at one of the city’s theatres; or cosy up at a craft beer bar.
June – Mt. Cook / Aoraki (South Island)
Mt Cook National Park is spectacular all year, but in winter it becomes a snow-covered wonderland. Hike the 10km Hooker Valley Track for epic vistas or explore the area by bike – the 315km Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is graded easy/intermediate and will take you past braided rivers, glacier-carved valleys, turquoise lakes, and grassy highlands. You’re likely to see penguins on the way, and there’ll be time to try local wines and soak in hot pools under the stars.
July – Tongariro National Park (North Island)
Tongariro National Park has been attracting adventurers of all ages since 1887, and now you can be one of them. Home to three active volcanic mountains, the villages of National Park, Whakapapa, Raurimu, and Erua are at the heart of this snowy playground. Mt Ruapehu Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas offer awesome opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, whether you’re a seasoned pro or absolute beginner.
August – Lake Tekapo (South Island)
Lake Tekapo is beautiful any time of year but in winter, when snow blankets the surrounding mountains, the lake’s vibrant turquoise colour stands out against the wintry landscape. Relax in the Tekapo Springs hot pools and visit the stone Church of the Good Shepherd for iconic views. Keep in mind that it is a place of worship, and you’ll need to make a donation in order to enter the church and photograph the view through the panoramic rear window.
September – Bay of Islands (North Island)
As the warmer weather returns, head for the Bay of Islands, three hours’ drive north of Auckland. This picturesque region is sublime for sailing, kayaking, diving, and snorkelling, and ideal for dolphin watching. The historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds provide insight into New Zealand’s founding and many of the 144 islands have walking tracks. When you’re not getting out and about in nature, explore the boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell, and Kerikeri.
October – Coromandel Peninsula (North Island)
October brings mild spring temperatures, making the Coromandel Peninsula ideal for beach hikes and forest walks. Dig a natural hot pool at Hot Water Beach or visit Cathedral Cove’s iconic archway. With its natural beauty and abundance of things to do, the Coromandel Peninsula is one of NZ’s most popular holiday spots. The diving, snorkelling, and kayaking is fabulous here, and be sure to unwind with a soak at The Lost Spring geo-thermal pools in Whitianga – it’s absolute bliss.
November – Napier and Hawke’s Bay (North Island)
November is a prime time to visit Napier and the vineyards of Hawke’s Bay, on the east coast. Take a stroll along Marine Parade, lined with palm trees and art deco buildings, or venture into the surrounding countryside for wine tastings at world-renowned cellar doors. Hawke’s Bay is part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, which takes you to more than 100 cellar doors, orchards, and wineries across four New Zealand regions. Don’t miss the Spring F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic for gourmet events throughout November.
December – Franz Josef Glacier (South Island)
Sign up for heli-hiking or a guided glacier walk for breathtaking views of the icy landscape from above or up close. The glacier’s dramatic crevasses and sparkling blue ice come to life with the help of a guide giving you the low-down on the unique geology. After your adventure, unwind in the nearby Glacier Hot Pools, surrounded by rainforest. When you’re ready for more, take a walk through the lush Westland Tai Poutini National Park, kayak the mirror-like Lake Mapourika, or meet a kiwi at the West Coast Wildlife Centre.
Travel insurance
We all know that the good times can take a slight detour when travelling. When the going gets tough, Travel Insurance Direct policies aim to do the heavy lifting and may assist with travel insurance cover for your trip to New Zealand, so you can refocus on the fun.