New Zealand

New Zealand is a perfect country to travel around at any time of year. Indeed part of its perennial appeal is the freedom to choose exactly where and when you travel. Each season does of course offer its own particular appeal - the long, warm days of high summer to the glorious autumnal colours, the sense of renewal during spring to the soft light of winter. 

WINTER TRAVEL IN NEW ZEALAND

Make the most of New Zealand's infinite charms and enjoy an extended holiday travelling during the UK 'summer holidays'. It may be winter on the other side of the world, but if the thought of being too cold has deterred you from visiting New Zealand during July and August, think again. Winter has far more to offer than you may think – fewer visitors, many attractions, greater flexibility, extra seasonal activities, affordable holidays at reduced cost, snow-dusted landscapes and the sort of soft light that is perfect for photo opportunities!

The North Island has a temperate climate, so especially in the Far North, days are milder than you might imagine. Tongariro National Park in central North Island proves very popular for skiing between late July and often late spring, and alternative snowbound activities include tobogganing and tubing or simply admiring the view. Tuck yourself away in one of New Zealand’s luxury lodges for a spot of pampering, with a superb range of spa treatments available.

The South Island is simply stunning at the best of times, and can be even more spectacular in the crisp winter months. July and August are potentially the best months to visit – when the weather is cold but clear. Winter sport in New Zealand is in abundance, and there are a range of amazing activities to enjoy – both indoors and outdoors. The Southern Alps of the South Island in particular, often allows better viewing of its magnificent glaciers, lakes and mountains, which are a photographer’s dream. 

Relax and Savour

Winter is the perfect time for an extended visit to New Zealand allowing more opportunity to simply relax and soak up your surroundings. If you build more time into your itinerary you can allow for potential ups and downs in the weather – take your pick of the best days for sightseeing and adventure, while spending the less favourable days enjoying a glass of wine in front of a roaring fire or sampling the country’s less well documented, but no less impressive, indoor attractions.

The unobtrusive charm of the West Coast is perfectly suited to travel during the winter months. A region always tending towards high rainfall, the degree of flexibility afforded by going slow means you can enjoy the wealth of nature that sometimes gets overlooked in the quest to view the region’s stunning glacial highlights. 

Top Ten for Winter

• Stroll along West Auckland’s deserted beaches and breathe the fresh air as the surf rolls in
• Discover the arts, crafts and numerous local events in sub-tropical Northland
• Enjoy short bush walks, hot water beaches and scallop season on the Coromandel
• Morning frosts and crisp sunny days make for great photography in Hawkes Bay
• Become a culture vulture in Wellington’s museums and theatres
• Watch a rugby match
• Hike the Abel Tasman Track
• Take to the ski fields only 2½ hours from Christchurch
• Try curling in Naseby as well as other ‘ice’ pursuits
• Relax in a West Coast lodge and get close to nature 

 

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