New Zealand - Guide

The far north of the North Island boasts some of the best beaches in New Zealand, and the Bay of Islands has become one of the county’s top attractions. The Bay of Plenty and the East coast are little visited compared with the rest of the country, and as such offer a real insight into a culture completely untainted by tourism. Taupo, Rotorua and the Central regions offer an abundance of Maori Culture, volcanic scenery and geothermal activity.

The Landscape, the people and even the pace of life are different in the South Island. The land is much more mountainous and the scenery is far more dramatic. The northwestern part of the South Island comprises the Nelson and Marlborough regions, renowned for their breathtaking hiking, wildlife opportunities and vineyards.

The South Island’s West Coast is a rugged sparsely inhabited area filled with geographical wonders. Major attractions include mighty glaciers and Paparoa National Park. The flat, green, leafy city of Christchurch, in the Canterbury region is the South Islands major city. The beautiful Milford and Doubtful Sounds of the Fiordland are the southwest’s top attraction.

When to go

This amazingly diverse country is does not have a ‘best time’ to visit. It is always a good time to go! Whether for a winter wonderland or an adventuresome amble, New Zealand has something for everyone.

The North Island ski season generally runs from the middle of June to the end of October with Whakapapa and Turoa offering something for everyone. The South Island and resorts such as Coronet Peak, Mt Hutt and Cardrona usually see snow earlier in June and run through to the beginning of October (South 1-12°C, North 4-16°C).

If sunshine and warmer temperatures (South 10-22°C, North 12-25°C) are more your style then visiting during the summer months of November to April will not only bring pleasant temperatures but also many festivals, sporting events and concerts. You will also notice a lot of campervans or motor homes on the road during this time of year. It is a wonderful way to experience the country side and main sights of New Zealand but can be a bother if you get stuck behind one heading up hill.

The South Island is usually always a few degrees colder than the North Island and being a maritime climate – the weather changes rapidly. It is best to always be well prepared for all weather conditions including rain in the summer.

More detailed information about the climate in NewZealand can be found in our New Zealand country guide.

Highlights

North Island

• Rotorua – Waimangu Volcanic Valley, NZ Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
• Waitomo – Limestone caves.
• Bay of Islands - Sub-tropical Kauri forests, golden beaches.
• Tongariro National Park – Mt Ruapehu, Tongariro Crossing.
• Wellington – Te Papa Tongarewa Museum.
• Napier – The most complete group of Art-Deco buildings in the world.

South Island

• Nelson/Marlborough – Abel Tasman National Park/Heaphy Track.
• Fiordland – Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Mt Cook, Mitre Peak.
• Kaikoura – Whale watching.
• West Coast - Franz/Josef/Fox Glaciers.
• Queenstown – Considered the outdoor activity centre of the world.