First things first: there’s never a bad time to travel to New Zealand. The country is stunningly beautiful and welcoming at any time of year. But if you want to, for example, not have your umbrella out all the time, we have some suggestions for the best times to visit New Zealand.
New Zealand’s weather is never overly hot - the average temperature in the warmest months (December, January, February, March) rarely rises above 80 (F).
If that still sounds like it’s too high for comfort, then your ideal time to visit will be in the Spring (August, September, October, November).
North Island vs the South Island
When considering the weather for your trip to New Zealand, it’s worthwhile to think about which island you’ll be spending the most time on. New Zealand’s North Island has a mild oceanic climate, while the south is a bit cooler and gets very windy.
The North Island
If you’re interested in geo-thermal activity, you should definitely consider visiting the North Island where hot spots and springs are abundant in Rotorua. Beware though - while this natural phenomenon is impressive and fascinating, it’s smelly! The distinct scent of sulfur - commonly likened to rotten eggs - will be prevalent.
The North Island is also where Lord of the Rings movie fans can discover the permanent Hobbiton installation, and explore Weta Workshop where a majority of the makeup effects were designed and perfected.
The South Island
The larger South Island of New Zealand is more well known for sweeping landscapes. Volcanoes, mountains, fjords, and gorgeous coastline are just some of the trademark natural attractions to be found on the South Island.
Queenstown, on the very southern tip of New Zealand's south island is the place to be if you’re an adventure enthusiast. The AJ Hackett bungy jumping bridge is nearby, and travelers can enjoy jet boating on Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu, or take in views from the thrilling skyline luge. The city is also a hotbed of cultural activity as well, from fun restaurants and bars to shops and art galleries.
North Island Breakdown
Auckland
The city of Auckland is on the northwest shore of New Zealand's North Island.
Average Temperature
| Month | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Average High (F) |
75 |
75 |
73 |
68 |
63 |
59 |
57 |
57 |
61 |
64 |
68 |
72 |
| Average Low (F) |
61 |
63 |
59 |
55 |
52 |
46 |
46 |
46 |
50 |
52 |
55 |
59 |
Rotorua
In the northern part of the North Island, Rotorua is the place to be for geothermal activity.
Average Temperature
| Month | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Average High (F) |
73 |
73 |
70 |
65 |
59 |
54 |
53 |
55 |
58 |
62 |
66 |
69 |
| Average Low (F) |
54 |
54 |
52 |
47 |
42 |
39 |
37 |
39 |
42 |
45 |
49 |
52 |
Wellington
Located on the southern most tip of the North Island, Wellington has classic beach town vibes with tons of cultural activities as well. If you're planning to take the ferry from Wellington to the South Island, be prepared for rough seas!
In 1865, Wellington became New Zealand's capital. Auckland has previously been the capital, however Wellington's more central location between the two islands ultimately made more sense.
Average Temperature
| Month | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Average High (F) |
70 |
70 |
68 |
63 |
59 |
55 |
54 |
55 |
59 |
61 |
64 |
68 |
| Average Low (F) |
59 |
59 |
57 |
54 |
50 |
46 |
45 |
45 |
48 |
50 |
52 |
57 |
South Island Breakdown
Nelson
One of the northernmost towns on the South Island, Nelson is a great spot for fresh seafood. This beachy town is not super touristy, so it's perfect for getting a local feel.
Average Temperature
| Month | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Average High (F) |
72 |
72 |
69 |
64 |
59 |
55 |
54 |
55 |
59 |
62 |
65 |
68 |
| Average Low (F) |
55 |
55 |
52 |
48 |
42 |
37 |
36 |
38 |
42 |
46 |
49 |
53 |
Christchurch
The third largest city in New Zealand, Christchurch is a bustling metropolis that has gone through significant change since being devestated by a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in 2011.
Average Temperature
| Month | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Average High (F) |
73 |
72 |
68 |
63 |
57 |
54 |
52 |
54 |
59 |
63 |
66 |
70 |
| Average Low (F) |
54 |
54 |
50 |
45 |
39 |
34 |
34 |
36 |
39 |
43 |
46 |
52 |
Queenstown
New Zealand's adventure capital is a hub of tourism. It serves as a popular base for several day trips including Lord of the Rings filming tours, Milford Sound, and Lake Wanaka.
Average Temperature
| Month | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
| Average High (F) |
72 |
72 |
67 |
60 |
53 |
46 |
46 |
50 |
55 |
60 |
64 |
68 |
| Average Low (F) |
49 |
49 |
46 |
41 |
36 |
32 |
31 |
33 |
37 |
40 |
43 |
47 |
