2024 is approaching, and it’s time to start planning your dream vacation. If you’re wondering where to go to create lifetime memories, this list has got you covered. From tropical paradises to iconic cities, these destinations offer a variety of experiences that cater to all sorts of travel preferences. Here are the best vacation destinations for 2024 that you should consider for your next getaway. Continue Reading
New Zealand is one of those places that travelers worldwide love to visit whenever the opportunity arises. However, as we all know, New Zealand is situated in the earth’s southern hemisphere. That means the seasons are the exact opposite of what is seen on most of our planet. For instance, when we have summer in our countries, New Zealand is experiencing winter. Additionally, you might experience four different seasons in a single day! Yes, we are not kidding. It’s a normal phenomenon in the country. Because of all this, travelers from other countries sometimes get utterly confused regarding the best time to visit New Zealand. So in this article, we will talk about it in-depth.
What is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand
High Season
December-March is considered the high or peak season in New Zealand. So it’s natural that these months stay crowded and finding the right lodge becomes a problem. Plus, the prices are comparatively high. So if you’re planning for a high season trip, it’s best to book your lodge, domestic transport, and flight in advance.
Shoulder Season
March-May and September-November are regarded as the shoulder season in this country. It is because, during these months, the prices would start to drop. In addition, this is a time when you can land great deals on accommodation and flight tickets. So the shoulder season is an ideal time for a New Zealand trip.
Low Season
June-October is the low or off-season here. It is no doubt the cheapest time to travel. Everything from lodging to domestic transport to flights sees a drastic price drop. Nonetheless, the resort towns with ski fields remain expensive to stay in even during this time. Also, while most major sites stay open all year, some attractions might stay closed in the low season.
Summer Season
December-February is the summertime in New Zealand. During this time, the weather remains warm and sunny, with an average temperature of 20°C-25°C. Therefore, you would see the streets very crowded. As we all know, these months signify the winters in most other countries. In contrast to that snowy and cold atmosphere, NZ offers bright, warm days. That’s why the summer here witnesses the arrival of many tourists from other parts of the world. The sun stays in the sky for about 12 hours each day, making the days longer and nights shorter. Thus, you get more time to explore the country.
Perhaps the best thing about NZ summers is that you can get fresh, juicy kiwis that you can enjoy while sunbathing. These kiwis taste awesome and will satisfy your taste buds like never before. Plus, the scenic views and the lovely sunshine make everything better. The beautiful mountains, gin-clear rivers, lush valleys, etc., are certainly a treat to visitors’ eyes. Also, if you like adventure, the summertime weather is ideal for paragliding, trekking, hiking, etc. So, you would never get bored. No doubt it’s the best time to visit New Zealand if you’re keen to experience nature to its fullest.
However, as we already said, this is the costliest time in this country. Everything from accommodation to flight tickets is so overpriced. So that could be problematic. But if you’re capable of affording them, it’s a great time to enjoy the nature and the races, triathlons, etc., that are organized in February.
Autumn Season
March-May is the time when autumn resides in this country. The average temperature remains around 17°C-23°C during this season. That means the weather is pretty pleasant as it is neither too hot nor too cold. These months indicate the shift of weather from summer to winter. So you would see leaves falling from the trees during these months.
The soothing atmosphere is perfect for engaging in some trekking, mountain climbing, biking, etc. You can also go camping if you want. It’s known that autumn here is the most ideal time to appreciate natural beauty. It is because the lovely weather keeps you from getting all sweaty. Hence, you would get ample chances to explore the country and its wildlife in autumn.
Plus, it is a beautiful time to walk the nice mountain trails as you won’t get tired easily. Moreover, since there won’t be any snow around you, you’d get an excellent view of your surroundings. Additionally, the red and orange-colored leaves on the trees and the ground create a vividly colorful spectacle around you. Hence, you can opt for some cycling through the parks to get an idyllic experience. Thus, it’s the best time to visit New Zealand for outdoor activities.
As it is the shoulder season here, you could land excellent deals on flight, accommodation, etc. So keep your eyes peeled. However, the chances are catching a cold becomes higher during autumn. That’s why we advise you to dress accordingly.
Winter Season
June-August is the winter season in New Zealand. During this time, the weather becomes cold because of the significant drop in temperature (staying around five °C in some places). On average, the temperature ranges from 7°C-13°C throughout the country, while the hilly areas experience a negative temperature. You would also witness snowfalls in many places. So there’s ample scope for snow activities too. The snowy surroundings look magnificent even though your visibility will decrease.
If you’re looking for a ski vacation, look no further than the months of winter. There are plenty of fantastic mountain slopes where you can safely opt for some skiing. Apart from skiing, you can engage yourself in other snow activities like snowboarding, sledding, heli-skiing, snowshoeing, etc. If you’re seeking more thrill and adventure, try doing some winter hiking. The ice-cold temperature makes walking the trail way more difficult than other times of the year. But the beauty and tranquil vibe that the snow-capped mountains emit would make your soul happy.
In winters, you can also experience glacier tours in Mount Cook National Park, Fox Glacier, etc. Also, the month of June sees the Queenstown Winter Festival – a grand yearly event occurring in New Zealand. All the New Zealanders gather to rejoice at the country’s first snow during this festival. Every New Zealander waits restlessly for this particular time of the year. Celebrating this extravagant event with the locals is the best way to get a taste of this country’s culture. Plus, winter is regarded as the off-season here. Thus, visiting New Zealand is the best time to get the lowest prices possible. But make sure you wear a few layers of clothes to protect yourself from the cold and stinging winter winds.
Spring Season
September to November is when spring resides in the country. During these three months, the temperature stays around 15°C-21°C during these three months, and you can feel a constant cool breeze. Plus, the days are longer and brighter than in winter. Therefore, the warm weather and the lovely, cool breeze are perfect for travelers to explore the country comfortably. Furthermore, these months indicate the arrival of summer. Thus, you would see the snow starting to melt and the sun shining brightly again. Also, the trees start gaining new leaves, and your surroundings would get a more alive and greener look.
As it provides relief from the harsh, stinging winter, spring is an excellent time for engaging in outdoor activities. These include paragliding, hiking, cycling, etc. Also, you can visit the beaches and take part in adventurous water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and so on. Besides those, just like autumn, spring is the ideal time for some trekking as you won’t get exhausted and walk more. And the lush greenery is a bonus. So you would find lots of New Zealanders sunbathing and enjoying this season.
The visibility remains excellent during these months. Therefore, they are perfect for sightseeing and exploring the country. For your information, the pleasant weather decreases your baggage by eliminating the need for bulky winter attires. Instead, wear a warm, cozy sweatshirt, and you’d be good to go.
Remember, like autumn, spring is also a shoulder season here. So it is the best time to visit New Zealand if you’re searching for the best deals for a budget trip.
Conclusion
As you can see, the best time to visit New Zealand varies from person to person. Why? Because it all depends on the particular needs and preferences of the traveler themselves. As our article explains each season in detail, we hope it will help you decide your ideal best time to visit this country. Adios!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the most low-priced time to visit New Zealand?
The low season (June-October) is undoubtedly the cheapest time to visit this country.
- What are the warmest months in New Zealand?
Both January and February are months when the weather stays the warmest in NZ.
- What is the wettest period in New Zealand?
May to August is the wettest time in New Zealand, with the most persistent rains and lowest sunshine.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “A bad day in the water is better than a good day working,” but what if days filled with bad surfing conditions were few and far between? You need to find a beach with an amazing surf, and it might be easier than you think. Stop randomly chasing the waves, and check out some of the most gnarly surfing destinations in the world.
1. Oahu, Hawaii
There’s a reason that Hawaii’s Banzai Pipeline is a fixture on the surf tour circuit — it’s one of the heaviest waves in the world. The flawless water tube hovers more than 19 feet over the shallow base of the reef that lines the shores of Ehukai Beach on Oahu’s north shore. Unfortunately, most surfers will never be good enough to surf the Pipeline. The granddaddy of all waves is also one of the most dangerous. If you need more practice, Honolua Bay in Maui. If you’re lucky, you might see a whale or two from your board.
2. La Jolla, California
Southern California has several excellent surfing spots, but La Jolla, CA is one of the best because it’s home to several surfing spots with varied wave levels. If you’re a beginner, check out La Jolla Shores. It’s a pretty basic beach, but its reliable, predictable waves make it a favorite among local surfers. To find the gnarliest waves in the area, head to La Jolla Cove. Some of the largest waves in the area break just outside the protected part of the cove.
3. Eastern Cape, South Africa
When traveling to South Africa consider staying in Jeffrey’s Bay in the Eastern Cape province. The laid-back beach town is about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth — one of the largest cities in South Africa. Jeffrey’s Bay has some of the best waves in the world, according to Surfer Today, and it’s known for its long, fast barrels and intense breaks. The bay itself is divided into sections, making it easy to choose a wave that matches your skill level. Find Magna Tubes, Kitchen Windows, Boneyards, and the craziest of them all, Supertubes.
4. Raglan, New Zealand
Raglan, New Zealand burst onto the surf scene in the 1960s when it was used as a filming location for the surf classic, “The Endless Summer.” The sleepy surf town is filled with cafes and bars that have surfing videos on continuous play. Manu Bay is the most popular surf spot in the area. It’s a long, left-hand point break along a boulder beach that has waves that start as a hollow drop before going into a barrel, and finally into a long walled section. On epic days, surfers can surf from Indicators straight through Whale Bay to Manu Bay.
5. Gold Coast, Australia
Gold Coast, a coastal city in Queensland, is a well-known surfing mecca. The surfer’s paradise is home to over 40 miles of pristine beaches and four epic point breaks, including the Superbreak. Generally considered one of the best surfing spots on the Gold Coast, the Superbreak, is a right-hand wave that barrels regularly — it’s known for producing heavy, hollow barrels only suitable for experienced surfers. Surfers also flock to Currumbin Alley. Known simply as the Alley, the popular surf spot produces consistent, world-class waves that advanced surfers love, as well as whitewash waves ideal for beginners.
The key to finding an amazing surf spot is finding beaches that produce surf-worthy waves on a regular basis. This way, when you’re ready to hang ten, the waves are ready for you.
It is safe to say that you are searching for a rundown of most lovely shorelines on the planet to visit this year? You’ve gone to the opportune spot! I’m a tremendous enthusiast of shorelines and I’m going to visit the greatest number of world’s shorelines as I can manage the cost of it. In the event that you are anything like me, look at my rundown of the most delightful shorelines worth going by.
Ka’anapali Beach, Hawaii
Hawaii has a lot of long delightful sandy shorelines, however Ka’anapali Beach is the most astonishing one! It’s a three mile long shoreline on western shore of Maui and is home to some world class inns and resorts, and extravagance condominiums. Bordered by the shining blue sea and supported by rich gardens, this is a genuine Hawaiian play area!
The conspicuous rough landmass Black Rock is a stunning snorkeling spot at the north end of the shoreline. The ideal mix of perpetual white sand and astounding sea conditions make snorkeling Black Rock at Ka’anapali the total shoreline experience. I’m certain Ka’anapali Beach will get to be one of your most loved spots in all of Hawaii.
Zambujeira Beach, Portugal
The western shore of Portugal has some stunning shorelines, which are not all that frequented by sightseers. Zambujeira Beach should be a standout amongst the most excellent shorelines worth going by. With brilliant sand and rough shakes, Zambujeira offers the visitor a chance to investigate the genuine Portugal.
In the event that you are longing for a tropical shoreline, Zambujeira Beach is a good fit for you! It is a spot where you can truly unwind and loosen up and see the stunning perspectives, eat astonishing sustenance and invest awesome energy with your accomplice, family or companions.
Cathedral Cove, New Zealand
Referred to in the Maori dialect as Te Whanganui-A-Hei, Cathedral Cove is among the most excellent spots in the Coromandel Peninsula. The shimmering blue sea, delicate sand, and Te Hono Rock make this spot a standout amongst the most wonderful shorelines worth going by. Being extremely prominent with sightseers, it gets more than 150,000 guests every year.
The cove itself is unique and the wonderful beaches, cliffs and rocks surrounding it are very picturesque. The hiking is so exciting, and it’s a great combination of uphill and down, making it a great exercise without being too stressful!
By: Lindsay Hogg
BLOG4NZ – Helping support tourism the way we know how – BLOGGING!
In case you live under a rock – Christchurch (a city located on the South Island, New Zealand) has been torn from earthquakes. The first of which I was in New Zealand for. I was supposed to be in Christchurch the night they had their first quake, alas I was too drunk and sleepy to go. The same thing happened in South America when I was supposed to be in Chile. My conclusion from this is:
Drinking Saves Lives
Anyways, back on topic. This post is about the good and bad I experienced while working in the smallest country town ever. I hope you enjoy it and I hope you go to New Zealand because it is seriously one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in the world… and I’ve seen my fare share of Countries. Not to mention, Kiwi’s are super friendly, give them hugs.
“This comes from the heart, which is close to your gut, which is where beer hangs out” – Montie Martin (my friend with a catchy name)
NZ is so awesome it shits rainbows! WOW!
The minute I arrived to this small town on the South Island, I wanted to leave. I freaked out when I realized I was stuck staying at a hotel in the middle of nowhere. The closest store was a 45 minute hike into town. Not horrible, but carrying groceries back was a bit of a challenge.
I moved there to work in the bar that was attached to a hotel (in exchange for accommodation – WOOFING). After getting to know my way around the bar and bonding with the locals I was prepared to stay for a while. How bad could it be? Working in a bar below my bedroom? (Not to mention, I was walking distance to numerous vineyards).
The boss man, hard at work!
When I finally started to become comfortable in my surroundings, I was shaken by the small town drama I witnessed. I always step back and watch others immense themselves in these sort of things… I never get involved, but somehow I kept getting dragged into it. I won’t get into any of the messy details though. I could write pages on some of the BS that went down in that bar, but out of respect for those I’ve made friends with and those who took me in and gave me work, I’ll concentrate on the positive things from my stay in Blenheim.
My beautiful doggy
*Kiwi BBQ’s are awesome. But make you gain weight… unless you have that thing called ‘self control’. If so… F&%$ You!
*I realized I shouldn’t drink tequila so often, because it makes me kinda crazy. (Yeah I can’t believe how long it took me to find thatt out).
*I met an amazing new friend from Finland, Susy. She quickly became my new drinking buddy, but then left me after a few weeks. Stupid Sussy.
Sussy asshole face leaving me! The picture is kinda blurry because I was shaking my fist at her with anger.
*I adopted a dog for 3 months.
*I met Ben, who taught me a great deal about myself, spirituality and the universe.
*My friend from Mexico crashed his car into anelectric post. (He had been drinking and didn’t have a license or insurance). Bad Mexican!
*I had one of the best meals on my year RTW in Queenstown. It was duck, asparagus and sweet potato gnocchi. It was amazing. I would punch someone right now just to eat it again. Numnumnum….
*I slept in the back of a car under the phenomenal stars one night.
*I toured the South Island in under a week, then headed back to Blenheim for some quality time with my hommies. It became one of my ‘homes away from home’ and I missed it the minute I left.
Blenheim was a relaxing time other than being the crazy tequila girl. I dated 3 guys in Blenheim, within the span of 3 months, I know what your thinking, but I was making up for lost time. I gave up on boys for a few months prior to this.
This was the view from my bathroom. I win at life.
Mom, Dad, you would have been proud… I didn’t fall down once! Alas, I accidentally lit a cigarette in a club and stole a pepper shaker from a cafe. It was really good pepper.