Although New Zealand is beautiful anytime of the year, seriously it is, I have to say that New Zealand in winter, has an extra kind of special. The snow-capped mountains, morning frost glistening off the tussocks, crisp fresh air, icey lakes, it’s honestly just stunning and a magic you don’t get in any other season.
Yes, most people visit and travel around New Zealand in the summer months, December to February as it is peak season– like most other places around the world but I highly suggest exploring or planning a trip in the winter months, June to August.
It’s taken me some time to get used to the reverse seasons, I still love snow during Christmas and you do need a few extra layers but it’s actually not that cold (especially compared to if you’ve come from Canada or another frosted country). You can still do just as many activities, no you do not have to do snow sports to enjoy the winter and as I said, the scenery has that extra special something.
Since winter is not as much of a popular time to visit the country, I’ve put together a guide so all your questions are answer about visiting New Zealand in the winter!
Why visit in the winter?
Besides the reasons mentioned above, there are a few more as to why you should visit New Zealand in winter. Of course, each season has it’s benefits but there are few big ones that are pretty noticeable. First, there are a lot fewer people. Places aren’t as crowded, accommodations aren’t completely sold out and you have a lot more room to explore at your destinations. Another big one is that prices tend to drop. That’s just the nature of being in the ‘off-season’ and more often than not, there are a lot more deals. If you don’t see any, just ask!
What is the weather like?
The first question most people ask me is how cold is New Zealand in winter. To that I answer, it depends on whether its the south or north island and where on the island. I thought being in the south pacific, New Zealand would be very tropical all year round, you know like Hawaii or Fiji where it’s warm all the time but not quite. The country does get a proper winter with below-freezing temperatures in some spots. The north island is typically warmer than the south and the more south you go the colder it gets.
Speaking from living pretty much in the middle of the south island, winters are not actually too bad. I can’t say houses are heated as well as they are in Canada, where we get temperatures like -40 in the winter but daytime temperatures are generally rather pleasant. One thing I do notice is how much it can warm up during the day. The sun is very strong here and makes a huge difference.
New Zealand winter is more of a damp cold rather than a dry cold. Even the towns close to the mountains don’t get snow on the ground too often but instead, it’ll rain. The amount of rainfall varies from place to place within the country over the winter period. For example, Greymouth on the west coast in the south island has about an average of 15 rain days, Christchurch has about 8 days, Queenstown about 8 days and Auckland has about 15 days.
Just like the rain, the average winter temperatures in New Zealand vary as well. Not by much in the south island but it is certainly warmer in the north.
| Queenstown Southern South Island | Christchurch East Coast South Island | Greymouth West coast south island | Auckland (Northern north island | |
| Low | -1°C | 1°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| High | 8°C | 12°C | 12°C | 15°C |
WHAT TO PACK?
As you can see with varying temperatures it can be a bit trickier to pack for winter in New Zealand. It’s not uncommon for some areas of New Zealand to experience 4 seasons in one day either. In the middle of winter I have gone from wearing shorts and a t-shirt to jeans, a hoodie, then a puffer jacket and toque (beanie). Whether you are packing for a trip to New Zealand or already live here and are exploring a new place here are few things you want to make sure you have with you.
- thermal long sleeve tops
- thermal leggings
- windproof/waterproof jacket
- puffer/insulated jacket
- wool socks- aka warm socks
- warm sweaters
I have created a full packing list including what you’ll need for hiking and walking tracks.
What to do in winter?
Just because its a bit chillier, it doesn’t mean that there isn’t a lot to do in the winter. There are some similarities in activities to the other months but some things only winter can bring. Here is a list of awesome activities you can do in winter in New Zealand.
Snow sports
Of course one of the most popular activities is snow sports! You don’t exactly get the mega powder like you would in Canada for instance but for all you snow bunnies it’s a great way to get out in the winter. There are a handful of major ski resorts in both islands and another handful of club fields. Club fields are generally for those who are more proficient as they don’t have the fancy lifts, instructors or easier hills. Here is a list of the ski resorts. All of these resorts provide lessons if needed and have awesome facilities.
South Island:
- Mt Hutt– Mid Canterbury
- Cadrona– Wanaka
- Treble Cone– Wanaka
- Coronet Peak– Queenstown
- Remarkables– Queenstown
- Porters– Canterbury
North Island:
Hiking
I personally love hiking in the winter. The scenery is incredible and it’s cooler out so you dont overheat during a mid day walk. There are many tracks that are still accessible with only a small amount of snow on them and safe to walk. You do still have to watch out for icey bits and made need crampons but walking through the snow is a fun challenge!
Here are some awesome walks and hikes to try:
South Island:
- Roy’s Peak– Wanaka- moderate/hard
- Hooker Valley track- Aoraki/Mt Cook- easy
- Woolshed Creek Hut– Mid Canterbury- easy/moderate
- Bealey Spur- Arthurs Pass – easy/moderate
- Lake Matheson track– West Coast- easy
North Island:
- Tongariro Crossing- hard
- Mount Maunganui- Bay of Plenty- easy
- Pouakai Crossing- Taranaki- hard
- The Kahami Loop Track- Taranaki- easy
- Sunrise Track – Hawke’s Bay- easy
Marine wildlife spotting
This would have to be one of my favourite things to do at any time of the year, spotting wildlife! There are a few places to go depending on what you want to see. Winter is a particularly good time of year especially for whale watching as this is when they are migrating. It’s quite common to see dolphins and the occasional Orca as well. It’s also a great time to spot penguins from July to November before their breeding season. Here are a few of the best spots to see marine wildlife. There are mulitple tour operators to choose from from each location.
South Island:
- Kaikoura- whales, seals and dolphins
- Milford Sounds- Fiordland crested penguins, seals, dolphins
North Island:
- Bay of Islands- whales
- Auckland- whales and dolphins
Hot springs & hot pools
If you have never sat in a hot tub when it’s cold out, I suggest you try! It’s actually amazing and luckily in New Zealand when you get out you don’t freeze into a popsicle. There are many hot springs and hot pools in New Zealand. Many looking out to the most amazing landscapes and views. Here are my best suggestions for pools and springs to soak in and relax.
South Island
- Onsen Pools– Queenstown
- Tekapo Hot Springs– Tekapo
- Hanmer Springs– Hanmer
- Maruia Hot Springs– Lewis Pass
North Island
- Kerosene Creek– Rotorua
- Taupo hot springs– Taupo
- Polynesian spring– Rotorua
What is the driving like?
The main concern for driving conditions is fog, rain or snow but generally driving isn’t too different than any other time of the year. The further south you drive in the winter be prepared for frosty, slippery roads in the morning. You may needs chains if you’re going through any passes after a snowfall or up a mountain to a skifield.
Usually, unless it’s been raining, the roads are easy driving come mid-morning. Be sure to check weather reports and give yourself a good amount of time to get to your destination.
Can you campervan in winter in New Zealand? is it too cold?
Of course you can! In fact it’s a great time to travel around the country as there are way less people so finding a camping spot is easy and the roads are not overly busy. Do keep in mind the weather can change driving conditions very quickly. Most if not all rental companies provide chains with the campervan. Sometimes these are at extra charge but incredibly worth it to have. Many passes in the south island require you to carry chains on board even if you don’t necessarily use them.
Too cold–not at all! As long as you are dressed properly and have what you need. It also may depend on what unit you rent as well. There is a lot of choice from self contained, non self contained, powered and non powered. The biggest tip is to remember your woolies on the packing list (socks, long underwear, thermal tops) and you’ll be fine.
Have I convinced you to visit and explore New Zealand in the winter yet? Here are a few more photos to inspired your next trip!
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New Zealand winter is absolutely freezing and below zero. Living in a campervan during this time would be a living hell, as a local who knows these things I would be reluctant to recommend a campervan in winter or even early spring. Anything with heating is fine though!
haha Ya, I know a few people who have traveled in a van in the winter without power. They’ve just kept the thermals on, hot water bottles and duvets. Heating would be best for sure but I don’t have as much affinity for the cold as others. My partner would be absolutely fine in a van in the winter with no heat haha