New Zealand has always been a popular tourist destination because of its diverse landscape, glacial and volcanic islands, geothermal parks, friendly people, elegant architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. A country synonymous with perfection needs an absolute guide to be explored at its best. Therefore, here’s an elaborate travel guide to help you plan your next vacation in New Zealand in winter.
5 Places To Visit In New Zealand In Winter
The winter months in New Zealand are an amazing time to explore this beautiful country in the southwest Pacific Ocean, as the weather enhances the beauty multifold.
1. Sky Tower
Standing 328 meters tall, this prodigious building is the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. This 60-story building is one of the best places to visit during your New Zealand winter travel as it offers panoramic views of the city, adrenaline activities like skydiving and sky walking, and a fine dining experience at some of the most opulent restaurants in the city.
Location: Victoria St W, Auckland
Timings: 9 am to 10 pm
Entry Fee: Adults: $29, Children: $12 (Free entry for children below 5 years)
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2. International Antarctic Centre
Get ready to witness modern-day Antarctic life during your New Zealand winter trip at International Antarctic Centre. One of New Zealand’s award-winning tourist attractions, this place offers exciting activities to indulge in, such as the Antarctic Storm, Hagglund Ride, 4D cruise, and Penguin Encounter. Have a great time here with your folks and experience New Zealand’s winter months at their best.
Location: 38 Orchard Rd, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch
Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Adults: $59, Children: $29 (Free entry for children below 5 years)
3. South Island
Go on a date with nature at New Zealand’s most picturesque island, the South Island. It is one of the best places to visit in winter, where one can encounter the snow-clad Alps, glacial valleys, shimmering lakes, rugged coastline, and flourishing flora and fauna. Unwind and relax in the lap of nature.
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4. Queenstown
Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, blanketed by the Alps, Queenstown is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers. Visit this place during your New Zealand winter vacation to indulge in thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, jet-boating, skiing, hiking,
5. Canterbury Museum
Stand a chance to gather knowledge about the cultural and natural heritage of the country at the Canterbury Museum during your New Zealand winter trip. Established in 1867, this museum showcases various exhibitions on natural and human history collections and stories about the Canterbury earthquake. All the history buffs, do not miss out on this fantastic museum.
Location: Rolleston Ave, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: None
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8 Things To Do In New Zealand In Winter
New Zealand’s weather in winter is fantastic to enjoy all the activities that the country has to offer. Activities like skiing, hiking, and more are enjoyed in the New Zealand winter season.
1. Mount Ruapehu – Skiing
Are you confused about what to do in New Zealand in winter? Don’t worry—New Zealand has a lot in store for the adventure freak in you. Indulge in some of the most famous winter activities, such as snowboarding and skiing, at Mount Ruapehu. Situated on the North Island amidst the volcanic landscape, this place is New Zealand’s largest winter playground, housing two ski areas with a separate area for beginners.
2. Rotorua- Take A Dip In The Geothermal Pools
Rotorua, in the North Island, is famous for its geothermal activities and Maori culture. Head to this city after a freezing ski session for a cozy bath in these hot water springs and mud pools. You can also enjoy various types of spa therapies that will help you relax and rejuvenate during your New Zealand Winter trip. Excited already?
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3. Queenstown – Skydiving
Welcome to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Quench your thirst for adventure in this thrilling town of New Zealand, which offers various adrenaline activities such as skiing, jet-boating, and skydiving. Indulge in the venturesome activity of skydiving in New Zealand and experience the thrill of a free fall.
4. Whale Watching
One of the things to do in New Zealand in winter is whale watching. You can spot whales at places like Whakatane, Hauraki Gulf, and Bay of Islands, but Kaikoura is the only place to spot giant sperm whales. As peak winters are the time of migration, one can also witness other sea species that migrate towards the continental shelf close to Kaikoura.
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5. Mount Cook – Overnight Hiking
Your trip to New Zealand lures you for the best hiking experience to the highest peak in the country, Mount Cook. Hiking along the glacial tracks of the Alps in South Island with majestic views of the valley, river system, alluring pools, and the mesmerizing sunset.
6. Witness Winter Festivals
Kiwi winter season marks the beginning of a festive season as well. Numerous festivals are held in various parts of New Zealand. Some of the best festivals are the Jazz Festival in Wellington, the Steampunk Festival in Oamaru, Fieldays in Hamilton, Winter F.A.W.C. in Hawke’s Bay, and many more. Head to New Zealand and be a part of these entertaining festivals.
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7. Visit Zealandia – Witness The Wildlife
Image Courtesy: Jeff McEwan/Capture Studios
Situated in the capital city of New Zealand, Wellington, Zealandia is the world’s only fully fenced ecosanctuary, which aims to conserve the freshwater ecosystem in the valley. Buy tickets in advance to skip the line and witness some of the rare species such as tūī, kākā, tīeke, hihi, little-spotted kiwi, tuatara, and many more. Witnessing the rare species in the cold New Zealand climate is a delightful experience.
Location: 53 Waiapu Rd, Karori, Wellington 6012
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Adults: $19.5, Children: $10 (Free entry for children below 5 years)
8. Tamaki Maori Village
Witness the Maori culture during your trip to New Zealand at Tamaki Maori Village. Set inside a 200-year-old forest, this place depicts the ancient Maori culture, traditions, dance, music, art weaving, wood crafting, and facial tattooing. Also, indulge in a war practice session and taste authentic Maori food before returning to your accommodation. We bet this would be the most exciting part of your trip to New Zealand.
Location: 1220 Hinemaru St, Rotorua city, Rotorua 3040
Timings: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Entry Fee: Adults: $130, Children: $70 (10-15 years) and $35 (5-9 years) (Free entry for children below 5 years)
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4 Places To Stay In New Zealand In Winter
Are you wondering where to stay in New Zealand? Fret not, as the best accommodation options are available here.
1. Solitaire Lodge
Located near North Island, Solitaire Lodge offers the most luxurious stay in New Zealand. With cosy suites decorated in contemporary style, overlooking Lake Tarawera, and providing facilities like a hot spring bath, a private helipad, and an opulent restaurant, it is one of the best places to stay in New Zealand.
Address: 16 Ronald Rd, Rotorua 3076
Average Price/Night: Starting from INR 90,000 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
2. Chateau On The Park – Christchurch, A DoubleTree By Hilton
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This top-notch 4-star hotel is situated in a serene environment close to the city centre. It is one of the best hotels that offers restful rooms, 24×7 room service, a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and a private vineyard for a memorable trip to New Zealand in winter.
Address: 189 Deans Avenue, Riccarton, Christchurch 8011
Average Price/Night: Starting from INR 8,200 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
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3. Heartland Hotel Queenstown
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If you are looking for budget accommodations for your trip to New Zealand in winter, check in at Heartland Hotel, which offers luxury at economical prices. Built in Swiss style, it is one of the best hotels in Queenstown and offers various services, such as a buffet breakfast, a fine-dining restaurant, and a wellness centre for rejuvenation.
Address: 27 Stanley St, Queenstown 9300
Average Price/Night: Starting from INR 7,500 (double-sharing basis & tax excluded)
4. Kamana Lakehouse
This is one of the best places to stay in New Zealand. It offers spell-binding views of Lake Wakatipu, which attracts many visitors. Staying in a lakehouse is a totally unique experience. You will get world-class experiences and all amenities like AC rooms, Wi-Fi, restaurants, and more.
Address: 139 Fernhill Road, Fern Hill, 9300 Queenstown, New Zealand
Average Price/Night: Starts from INR 15,000
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4 Romantic Restaurants In New Zealand
Here is a list of the most unique restaurants in New Zealand, perfect for planning a date night with your loved one.
1. Logan Brown Restaurant
Situated in the capital city of New Zealand, this upmarket restaurant is a must-visit during your winter trip. Built inside an old bank building with a Colonial-style ambience, it is famous for its chef’s special 5-course meal and a set lunch menu for a meagre $45 per person.
Location: 192 Cuba St, Te Aro, Wellington 6141
Timings: Sunday-Tuesday: 12 pm to 12 am
Cuisine: British, French, European
Average Meal For Two (With Alcohol): Starts from INR 9,000 (tax excluded)
2. Orbit 360
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Situated at the 52nd level of the prodigious Sky Tower, Orbit 360 restaurant offers delectable food and panoramic city views from a bird’s eye perspective. Treat yourself to a luxurious dining experience at Orbit 360 during your trip to New Zealand in winter, which offers lip-smacking British cuisine served by an extremely courteous staff.
Location: Sky Tower Corner Federal and Victoria Streets, Auckland
Timings: Monday to Friday- 11:30 am to 2:15 pm & 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm; Saturday to Sunday- 11 am to 4:30 pm & 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Cuisine: British
Average Meal For Two (With Alcohol): Starts from INR 6,800 (tax excluded)
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3. Fiddlesticks Restaurant
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Are you looking for budget dining during your trip to New Zealand in winter? Then head straight to Fiddlesticks Restaurant, located in the heart of Christchurch. This restaurant offers a fine dining experience at reasonable prices. It also hosts happy hours when customers can enjoy their booze along with exciting offers and discounts.
Location: 48 Worcester Blvd, Christchurch Central, Christchurch
Timings: Monday to Friday- 8 am to 10 pm, Saturday to Sunday- 9 am to 10 pm
Cuisine: Kiwi, European
Average Meal For Two (With Alcohol): Starts from INR 3,600 (tax excluded)
4. Kazuya
For a fusion of European and Japanese, head to Kazayu, which is one of the best restaurants in the country to visit in winter. It offers cozy and warm ambience that will give you a heartwarming experience. Some of the best dishes it offers are octopus, duck, seasonal textured vegetables and more.
Location: 193 Symonds St, Eden Terrace, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Timings: 6 pm to 11:30 pm every day except Friday. On Fridays, the restaurant remains open from 12 noon to 2:30 pm and from 6 pm to 11:30 pm. The place is closed on Sundays.
Cuisine: Red prawn, Prosciutto and Cardamom pastry tart ice cream
Average Meal For Two (With Alcohol): INR 3691-6546
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Weather In New Zealand In Winter
Enjoying its proximity to the coast, New Zealand in the winter is quite pleasant. The country experiences mild winters, whereas the alpine region witnesses snowfall as well. Winter is a great time to visit New Zealand for nature and adventure enthusiasts as the beauty of the place is enhanced by the snow-clad mountains and accompanied by numerous winter activities. Another fringe benefit of visiting New Zealand in winter is that it is an off-season, which is why the country is not crowded, offers more privacy, and the best New Zealand tour packages are available at pocket-friendly prices.
How To Reach New Zealand
Since New Zealand has evolved as a popular tourist destination over the years, the means of reaching this country have also developed greatly. New Zealand is now connected to almost all parts of the world via airways. Air travel is the quickest and the most economical way to reach New Zealand. It is recommended that you book tickets well in advance to avoid higher fare prices for your trip to New Zealand in winter. If you are feeling adventurous enough, then taking a New Zealand road trip in winter is what you can try.
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Tips Before You Head To New Zealand In Winter
- Check the weather forecast before heading to your preferred destinations in New Zealand.
- Don’t forget to take your regular medicines for colds, coughs, and viral fever.
- If you are planning to go ice skiing, then pack your gear.
- If you are heading to New Zealand in winter, remember to pack some essentials, including a warm jacket, a snow-proof pair of trousers, a warm scarf, and a fleece jacket.
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New Zealand in winter sounds perfect, doesn’t it? Planning to escape the scorching summers of the Northern Hemisphere? Then, plan your trip to New Zealand for a memorable vacation. Also, do share it with your friends and folks.
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Frequently Asked Questions About New Zealand In Winter
What are the best ways of getting around in New Zealand in winter?
Being a backpacker’s destination, New Zealand offers abundant means of transport to get around the country. Some of the best means of getting around New Zealand in winter is vehicle renting, buses, trains, and vehicle ferries.
Where does it snow in New Zealand in winter?
High altitude areas of South and North Island are the only areas that witness snowfall in New Zealand in winter. It rarely snows in cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
Which is the best time to visit New Zealand?
Autumn, i.e., March to May, is the best time to visit New Zealand as the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Also, the peak tourist season is over by this time, therefore, places are not crowded and accommodations and flights are available at reasonable prices.
What all should a person keep in mind while backpacking for New Zealand in winter?
Most of the areas of New Zealand lies close to the coast, therefore, winters are mild. Southern parts of the country are quite cold in winters. Hence, one should pack warm woolen clothes while traveling to New Zealand in winter.
What is the currency of New Zealand?
New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is the official currency of the country. 1 NZD is equivalent to 45.28 INR and the exchange rate keeps fluctuating every now and then.
How cold is New Zealand in the winter?
The areas of South Island can get really cold and have temperatures dipping down to -10°C.
What are the winter months in New Zealand?
June to August are the winter months in New Zealand.
What is the cheapest month to fly to New Zealand?
The fares are low during the months of May and June.
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