New Zealand Winter Travel
- Last Updated: 30 Dec 2025
- Publish Date:
- Miles Clark
- Before you visit NZ, NZ Travel Info, NZ Weather & Seasons
More and more travelers are discovering New Zealand’s winter charm, and we’re here to show you why it’s the perfect escape from the heat (or rain) of the Northern Hemisphere summer! If you’re looking for a getaway that offers something unique during June, July, and August, New Zealand’s winter activities and stunning landscapes will be sure to win you over.
Does the sweltering summer heat in Europe have you dreaming of cooler weather? Or maybe the August heat in North America is making you long for crisp, refreshing days? Tired of the unpredictable British summer weather? There’s a simple cure for the Summertime Blues – a trip to New Zealand! While the Northern Hemisphere is sweltering in summer, it’s winter down here, and that means plenty of outdoor fun and adventure waiting for you.
At MoaTrek, we’ve been showing travellers around New Zealand since 1971, running small group tours through our beautiful country. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed our fair share of winter fun, and we think you’ll love it too! This guide is packed with everything you need to know about winter travel in New Zealand, so whether you’re into hiking, skiing, culture, or just soaking up the scenery, we hope you find the perfect inspiration for your trip.
Contents
Why Visit New Zealand in Winter Time?
If you’ve only ever thought of New Zealand as a summer spot – golden beaches, lush forest trails and long sunny days – you’re only seeing half the picture. Winter in New Zealand, from June to August, is a completely different kind of magic, and as Kiwi locals who’ve been showing guests around since 1971, we can tell you: it’s one of the best times to visit.
Our Aussie cousins have been in on the secret for years. As soon as winter rolls around, they flock across the Tasman to ski and snowboard some of the best slopes in the southern hemisphere in places like Queenstown and Wanaka. But here’s the bonus for you: once you step outside the ski towns, the rest of the country is wonderfully relaxed. There are fewer crowds, prices are often lower, and you get to enjoy New Zealand’s winter attractions at a quieter, more local pace.
If you’re travelling from the US, Canada, or Europe, New Zealand winter lines up perfectly with your summer holidays. While things are heating up at home, you can escape to cool, crisp days, snow-capped mountains, dramatic landscapes and cosy nights by the fire. The beaches are still here, the walking tracks are still open, and the scenery is as spectacular as ever – just with a fresh dusting of snow in the right places.
So why not use a couple of weeks of your Northern Hemisphere summer to pop down to our side of the world and experience New Zealand in a whole new light? Winter here isn’t just “off-season” – it’s a special season of its own.
What’s the Weather Like in New Zealand During Winter?
If you’re wondering what New Zealand’s winter weather is like, it really depends on where you are.
Since we’re a bit of an island nation, the weather can vary quite a bit across the country. For example, the far north enjoys a subtropical climate (we like to call it the “winterless north”), while the rest of the country experiences a more temperate climate.
In places like the South Island’s alpine towns, you can expect some seriously cold temperatures during winter, but the coastal areas will feel much milder. So, whether you’re after a crisp, chilly experience or something a bit more temperate, New Zealand’s winter weather has it all.
Let’s break it down: July, which is usually the coldest month, sees average temperatures in Auckland ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 15°C (59°F). In Christchurch, you’re looking at a chillier range of
1°C (34°F) to 13°C (55°F). Queenstown, known for its big temperature swings, can go from -1°C (30°F) to 10°C (50°F). For the real winter lovers, Ophir in Southland holds the title for the coldest recorded temperature in New Zealand over the last 100 years, dipping as low as -21.6°C (-7°F)! But don’t worry, the locals still love it!
If you’re hoping for warmer weather, your best bets are Auckland, the Bay of Plenty, or the far north.
These spots tend to be milder in winter, though they can be a bit damper than other areas. Christchurch, on the other hand, will be a bit colder but much drier. In general, the South Island will be cold and dry, while the North Island has warmer temperatures but can feel more humid and damp.
For those planning to hit the slopes, August is the best month for fresh snow, and September can be great too, although the snow might start to thin out. July often brings big snow dumps, but that can also mean low visibility and ski lifts shutting down temporarily. If you prefer quieter slopes, you might want to avoid the first few weeks of July, as it’s school holiday time, and the mountains can get a bit crowded with families!
How much does it snow in New Zealand?
The average annual snowfall in New Zealand depends on the location. Coasts receive less snow so if you’re sticking to these areas you might not see any white stuff on the ground all winter.
Inland areas and places at higher altitudes, especially on the South Island, will usually see some snow during the months of June, July, and August. On the North Island, it’s highly unusual to see any snow in cities or coastal areas.
MoaTrek Travel Tip
The Top 8 Reasons to visit New Zealand in winter
1. Lower prices and bargains available on accommodation, travel and events
2. Arguably more beautiful scenery in winter
3. The southern hemisphere’s best skiing
4. You’ll have the place to yourself. Well, you, 5.3 million New Zealanders, and a few other travellers!
5. Baby Seals
6. Hot Springs – Much better in winter
7. The Southern Lights, or Auora Australis, are a winter phenomenon
8. Whale watching – July is the best season to see these giants of the sea
Self-Drive Options in Winter
Even in winter, New Zealand is a great country for driving thanks to the open roads, amazing scenery, and good driving standards. Check out our driving in New Zealand for American tourists article for detailed information.
You’ll need to be a little more vigilant when driving in winter. Chains aren’t usually necessary unless you’re planning on skiing or crossing any mountainous regions between June and September.
We recommend using these websites to monitor driving conditions in winter:
• Met Service – our national weather forecasting service
• New Zealand Transport Agency / Waka Kotahi traffic info website is another good one to bookmark or even better, sign up for their email notifications or follow them on social media while you’re here for state highway or motorway information including road closures and roadworks.
If you’re planning on crisscrossing the Southern Alps in winter, monitor conditions carefully and be prepared. Apart from obvious risks that come with winter road conditions, you might waste time if you come to an impassable point in the road or a road closure. Save time by doing research before setting out or even better, get someone else to do the driving.
Campervan Travel in Winter
While it’s entirely possible, using a camper van as transport and accommodation in winter in New Zealand will be tough, unless you’re fine with sleeping in cold conditions. If you do decide on camping, make sure your camper van has heating and try to camp at designated camper van sites that supply power.
Days are short in winter so know that temperatures drop and visibility reduces as early as 4pm. The further south you go the sooner it gets dark in the winter months.
MoaTrek Travel Tip
Practical Advice for Winter Driving in New Zealand
- Snow chains. In the South Island, even if you plan on keeping to coastal areas, it’s best to have chains, just in case. The weather in New Zealand changes rapidly.
- Before taking a rental car on the road, make sure that the heater and defroster are working perfectly. Ask the rental company salesperson to show you how to fit chains to the car.
- Buy an ice-scraper for the car windows. At a pinch, a credit card will do, but you might need that card later.
- Drive more slowly in winter. Ice, black ice, frost, and other hazards make conditions for driving more challenging in winter. Adjust your driving time calculations for a slower overall pace. Enjoy the snow-capped mountains as you cruise by with your foot a little lighter on the accelerator.
Top Winter Activities in New Zealand
With over 2000km (1240 miles) from top to bottom, several climate regions, and both mountains and beaches in close proximity, New Zealand offers visitors a huge array of natural attractions. Wintertime is a great time to visit as you can see and do things all over the country that you can’t at any other time of year. Here are some of the best winter activities in New Zealand when the temperature drops.
1. Ski or hike on an active volcano
There aren’t too many places in the world where you can say you’ve carved up the snow on the side of an active volcano. Mt Ruapehu, with its two ski fields, Whakapapa and Turoa, is the North Island’s most popular ski area. It’s also a volcanic mountain. Volcanic activity is monitored closely and thousands of people ski and hike the mountains in this area all year so there’s nothing to worry about. Whakapapa and Turoa make up New Zealand’s largest ski area and if you’re coming from Europe or the US, ski pass prices will seem very reasonable. Mt Ruapehu is 4 hours drive from both Auckland and Wellington. If hiking is your thing, you’ll love all the walks in the World Heritage Tongariro National Park, from short day walks to the full challenge of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, there’s something for all hikers.
2. Whale watching
The location of the town of Kaikoura on the east coast of the South Island was not an accident. The water near the town is teeming with plant and animal life. Fish are plentiful here. Tectonic plates collide close to the shoreline producing a very deep trench with strong currents that drag nutrients and animal life to shallow waters. Dolphins, seabirds, and whales enjoy an abundance of food in the waters off the coast. Some species of whale live year-round at Kaikoura but migrating whales, such as the humpback, blue whales, and pilot whales pass through these waters from June to August. These winter months are the best times to spot lots of different types of whales together. You can even watch the whales from the sky with flights chartered specifically for whale watching.
3. Experience the Southern Hemisphere’s premier Ski destination
Ruapehu might have more terrain but the Southern Lakes’ neighbouring ski fields of Treble Cone, Cardrona, The Remarkables, and Coronet Peak near Queenstown offer something for everyone and scenery like you won’t believe. When visitors come to New Zealand for the skiing, this is where they come. You’ll find a mix of Kiwis, Aussies and international visitors skiing, snowboarding and having all kinds of fun around Queenstown and Wanaka from June to September.
One of the best parts about winter sports in this part of the country are the views. The Southern Alps are spectacular at any time of year but when you’re zipping down the slopes on skis, the snow-capped mountains all around look truly spectacular.
Queenstown, the base for most skiers, is an awesome base for a winter family holiday. The kids will love it and there is plenty of après-ski options for the parents. When bad weather forces the ski fields to close, the towns of Queenstown and Wanaka have no shortage of things to do.
The Queenstown-Wanaka area isn’t the only place to ski on the South Island either. All along the spine of the island, from Nelson Lakes to Queenstown, wherever the Alps reach over 1000 metres, you can find large and small ski fields to suit every taste. Mount Hutt is the South Island’s largest skifield and is 2 hours from Christchurch and for a real local flavour try the club fields like Porters, Broken River, Mt. Cheeseman and Temple Basin in the Arthur’s Pass area.
4. Hot Pools
Who doesn’t love a dip in a hot pool or tub on a chilly day?
Hanmer Springs is a complex of hot pools, thermal baths, and spas about 100km north of Christchurch and 100km west of Kaikoura. Open every day, the naturally heated thermal pools are especially nice to relax in when the weather is cold. The pools never shut, even when it rains. The water in the pools contains minerals and other properties that promote health and wellbeing. There’s only one way to find out if that’s true!
Another option is the Onsen Hot Pools near Queenstown. Overlooking the Shotover river, where so many adventure activities take place, the hot tubs in the Onsen facility are the ultimate relaxation and pampering option. After a few days hiking in the hills or carving up snow on the slopes, there’s nothing better than to soak your muscles in a hot tub and enjoy a magnificent view down below.
5. Southern Lights
I’ll bet you’ve heard of the Northern Lights. But down south we don’t like to be outdone. We have our own lights, called the Aurora Australis. From March to September you’ll have a chance to catch the light show if you’re far enough south. The bottom part of the South Island is your best bet. The Catlins near Invercargill is not only a wonderful place to visit, even in winter, but is one of the prime locations to see the Southern Lights. Check this website for forecasts. You’ll be glad you did.
6. Glacier Hiking
If you visit glaciers in most places on this planet, you’ll need to wrap up warm. New Zealand’s glaciers lie in relatively warm zones and are unique in that two glaciers lie almost at sea level.
Winter is a good time to visit Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on the west coast. The weather is less turbulent and conditions can actually be drier than during the rest of the year. Another reason for visiting in winter is that you’ll share the ice with fewer people. The glaciers are ‘open’ all year. The only time heli-hiking guides won’t go up is during storms and if conditions are dangerous.
At this time of year, the glacier features appear different to the summer months when the warm weather melts the ice faster.
7. Star Gazing
Mt John near Lake Tekapo is one of the most important night sky spots in the country and draws plenty of international visitors. In fact, the Mt John observatory is a huge draw card for visitors from all over the world as it’s one of only 24 International Dark Sky Reserves in the world. To experience the Aoraki Mackenzie Gold Tier International Dark Sky reserve you need to spend a night in either Tekapo, Twizel or Mt Cook village. Winter is a particularly good time for night viewing or star gazing. If photography and film-making are your thing, pick a clear, crisp night and set up some time-lapse photography to capture the skies over New Zealand from a superb vantage point. Low pollution and light levels in this part of the world means that the stars are even brighter. The long nights in winter give you a good window of opportunity for getting the best shots or simply enjoying the beauty of the southern skies.
The surrounding Mackenzie country is also one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. Visiting in the winter months will give you the chance to experience a different shade of the high country lakes and their amazing blue/green lake colours with a backdrop of the snowy Southern Alps.
New Zealand Winter Event Recommendations
There are lots of cultural experiences you can get involved in across June, July and August in New Zealand. Our top picks are below.
1. Matariki
Matariki is a celebration of the Maori New Year and heralds the rising of the Matariki star cluster (also known as the Pleiades) in the night sky. It is a time to remember those that have passed away over the last year, a time to gather with whanau and friends to share food and connect together, and a time to reflect on the year past and plan for the year ahead. There are events ranging from dawn ceremonies to sharing kai (food) or cultural performances such as kapa haka and waiata held throughout the country. These events run from late May to early July depending on where you are and local iwi traditions.
2. Wellington on a Plate
Check out the Wellington On A Plate Festival and try the best of New Zealand food in one place. The festival runs throughout August and every day you’ll find exclusive menus, pop-up restaurants, cookery classes, and tasting events as restaurants, cafes, and bars in the city showcase regional foods from the entire country. It’s a must-see event for foodies.
Wellington is a great city for coffee culture and dining and this once-a-year event is the icing on the cake.
3. Bay of Islands Jazz and Blues Festival
Jazz, Wine, and the warm (warmer than the rest of the country at least) climate of the beautiful Bay of Islands come together in August every year.
The Bay of Islands are a major tourist destination in New Zealand thanks to the fantastic scenery, sailing, fishing, and relaxed way of life. Combine the Jazz festival with some wine tasting and a cruise around the bay.
If you’re travelling down south from Auckland at this time of year and love jazz, why not add a few extra days to your adventure with a short trip north for the festival beforehand?
Hiking in New Zealand in Winter
New Zealand’s Great Walks are a series of multi-day hikes with varying levels of difficulty. Of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks, five are located on the South Island (the other four are on the North Island and Stewart Island). The Milford Track is possibly the most famous of all the great walks and it’s easy to see why. Walking the track in Milford feels like you’ve entered a new world.
Tramping in winter, however, is a lot harder than in summer when the Great Walks season is open (from October to May). Reduced facilities, snow, and other hazards make the journey a lot more challenging and tracks like the Milford and Routeburn are recommended for experienced hikers only in winter.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t get out and walk the hills in winter. Use caution at all times but especially in winter when the weather can change dramatically in minutes. Here’s a quick summary of some of our favourite short walks in winter which can be accessed easily and you can be back having a mulled wine by the fire right afterwards:
Tongariro Day Walks
If you’re staying in the National Park area there are some great short walks nearby, like the Taranaki Falls or Silica Rapids track. There walks are accessible in winter without special equipment and will give you a great experience of the volcanic landscape.
Abel Tasman National Park
Even in wintertime you can still walk on the golden sand beaches of the Abel Tasman, you might even be brave enough to go for a swim! Abel Tasman is low lying and located right in the heart of the sunniest area of New Zealand, it’s very unusual to see snow here. The national park is really easy to get to for the day from Nelson, or closer. You can jump on a water taxi and take your pick of day walks from 2 – 6 hours long.
Mount Cook National Park
Similar in a sense to staying in the National Park region, when you’re in the Hermitage Hotel at Mt Cook you’re right in the heart of a World Heritage national park with awesome tracks right out your door. The big difference here is that you’re looking up at the highest peaks in the Southern Alps, including of course Aoraki Mt Cook. The glacial landscape is all around above and around you. Our favourite Mt Cook winter walks are the Kea Point track and the Hooker Valley, super scenic, great tracks and really easy to get to.
Queenstown winter walks
Being a ski resort, the temperatures do drop here in winter, but the town itself is not covered in snow all winter, in fact, snowfalls right down to town level are quite rare and celebrated events. This is great for walkers, as Queenstown has an array of tracks close to town which are really easy to get to (no car required for many of them) and the snow on the mountains and crisp winter air add to the exuberance. Our favourites are the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, Queenstown Gardens and the Frankton Arm Walkway.
See more about our favourite New Zealand short walks here, most of which are accessible all year round.
Accommodation in Winter
Most of New Zealand’s overseas visitors arrive in the summer months (roughly November to March). Fewer people arrive in the winter months of June, July and August. Outside of the ski towns that means lower prices for accommodation and a great opportunity to check for deals on activities and tours.
What to pack for winter travel to New Zealand
Visitors from the UK, Western Europe or the Pacific Northwest can expect similar winter conditions in New Zealand. Bring the same jackets, hats, gloves, and warm clothing that you would use for travel in the UK, Europe or North East of the USA from December to March. If you plan on hiking in winter, you’ll need sturdy waterproof boots and some extra layers of clothing.
Kiwis are outdoor types and there are stores in most towns that cater to the outdoor enthusiast. If you’ve forgotten anything you can certainly find a replacement down here. Even if you’ve brought everything you need it’s worth checking out Merino wool clothing, a New Zealand speciality. Lightweight, warm, and comfortable, Merino wool is a great fibre for outdoor apparel. Chances are you’ll fall in love with it while you’re here and a few extra Merino items will find their way home with you!
MoaTrek Travel Tip
Packing List for Winter Travel in New Zealand
- Warm jacket or fleece
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Gloves
- Beanie or warm hat (For all you Canadians out there, this is your Tuke!)
- Waterproof boots/shoes for hiking/wet weather
- Lightweight, breathable long-sleeved shirts and pullovers – Merino wool is ideal
- Hiking pants with shorts zip-offs – It can get hot in winter too
- Swim trunks / Bathing costume – You don’t want to miss out on the hot pools
- Sunglasses – The New Zealand sun shines bright in winter
- Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap
- Thermals – For hiking, camping, and skiing
If you’d like more information, we’ve got a whole article dedicated to packing for a New Zealand holiday.
Why MoaTrek Focuses on Spring to Autumn
Our love for New Zealand’s great outdoors, friendly locals, and unique natural beauty inspired MoaTrek’s small group tours. Over time, we’ve found that spring, summer, and autumn offer the most unforgettable experiences for our travelers.
While we no longer guide tours in winter, we’d love to help you plan a trip during the seasons we know showcase New Zealand at its very best. So if you’d like to find out more about what spring to autumn travel in New Zealand is like, get in touch now or read our related articles below.
Useful articles for your trip
What’s the best time of year to visit New Zealand?
- Miles Clark
- Before you visit NZ, NZ Travel Info, NZ Weather & Seasons
