As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn sets in, NZ transforms into a breathtaking landscape of golden hues, making it a perfect time for travel. Autumn, spanning from March to May, offers mild temperatures, cheaper rates, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a scenic road trip, a wine-filled getaway, or simply a peaceful retreat, autumn is an ideal time to explore.
Must-See Destinations & Seasonal Travel Tips
Mild and Pleasant Weather
Enjoy comfortable daytime temperatures, averaging 15-25°C, with cooler evenings.
Fewer Tourists
Summer crowds have dwindled, making it easier to explore attractions without long waits.
Visiting New Zealand in early autumn (March to May) can be more economical than during the peak summer months (December to February). During this period, you can frequently find lower rates for accommodations, flights, and tours since it is outside the busy tourist season. Moreover, there are typically fewer international visitors to New Zealand in early autumn, which results in decreased demand and better offers. This season also provides a great opportunity to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning landscapes with milder weather and fewer crowds, making it a more cost-effective and pleasant time to travel.
Stunning Foliage
Deciduous trees in key regions burst into vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange.
Ideal for Outdoor Activities
Hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting are perfect in the crisp autumn air.
Best Places to Experience Autumn Colours
North Island
Auckland offers several beautiful spots to enjoy autumn colours. Auckland Domain, the city’s largest park, features mature trees that turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, making it perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic. Cornwall Park & One Tree Hill boasts a spectacular autumn display with golden oaks and plane trees, offering scenic walks and stunning city views. In the heart of the city, Albert Park provides tree-lined paths showcasing rich autumn hues, creating a relaxing setting near the Auckland Art Gallery.
The Central North Island offers stunning autumn scenery, with Lake Taupō surrounded by vibrant foliage that enhances the lakeside town and picturesque Huka Falls walking tracks. In Rotorua, the Government Gardens and Redwood Forest provide breathtaking displays of autumn colours, making them perfect spots for a scenic stroll.
Known for its rolling vineyards, Hawke’s Bay is a must-visit in autumn when the grapevines turn fiery shades of red and orange. Enjoy wine tasting and gourmet food experiences at some of New Zealand’s best wineries.
Taranaki boasts stunning autumn landscapes, with Pukekura Park in New Plymouth featuring a magical blend of red and orange leaves reflecting in the lake. The Forgotten World Highway offers scenic drives through valleys adorned with golden foliage, providing a picturesque autumn experience.
The Wellington region showcases beautiful autumn landscapes, with the Botanic Gardens offering a stunning mix of colours. Greytown in the Wairarapa is renowned for its charming historic streets lined with vibrant autumn leaves, creating a picturesque setting.
South Island
Autumn in Marlborough, New Zealand, is a stunning season, as the vineyards, hills, and valleys turn into a vibrant mix of gold, red, and orange. The renowned wine regions of Wairau Valley and Awatere Valley become lively during harvest, providing beautiful views of vine-covered areas. The cooler weather enhances the autumn colours, making it an ideal time for scenic drives and walks. Blenheim, the centre of Marlborough, is surrounded by lovely parks and gardens that highlight the seasonal beauty, while the nearby Marlborough Sounds offers a peaceful coastal charm to the autumn experience.
Known as the ‘Garden City’, showcases a breathtaking spectacle in Autumn, as orange leaves fall gracefully across the city. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and experience the enchantment of this area’s seasonal transformations.
The West Coast features scenic drives like Hokitika Gorge, where autumn colours contrast with the vivid blue river, and the lush forests along the Haast Pass, offering stunning seasonal hues.
Queenstown is a top destination for autumn foliage, with trees turning vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange. Queenstown Gardens offers a stunning display of colours, while the nearby Arrowtown and its scenic Arrow River showcase additional breathtaking autumn hues.
Take a scenic drive through Central Otago’s winding roads, where vineyards and orchards create a spectacular autumnal backdrop. Visit Clyde or Alexandra for some of the best views.
Top Outdoor Activities for the Season
Autumn is an ideal time for hiking in New Zealand, as the trails are less crowded, and the landscapes are enhanced by vibrant fall colours. Popular multi-day hikes like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and Routeburn Track offer breathtaking views, with the forests and valleys showcasing golden, red, and orange hues. The cooler temperatures make trekking more enjoyable, and the autumn foliage adds a unique charm to the journey.
New Zealand’s cycling trails are particularly stunning in autumn, with fewer tourists and cooler weather making for a more comfortable experience. Scenic rides offer cyclists the chance to pedal through landscapes of vineyards, rolling hills, and mountain views, all framed by the changing colours of the season.
Autumn is harvest season in New Zealand’s renowned wine regions, making it an excellent time to visit vineyards. The cooler weather and colourful foliage enhance the experience of wine tasting, with opportunities to explore picturesque vineyards, enjoy local wines, and learn about the winemaking process amidst stunning autumn scenery.
Scenic Drives
New Zealand offers some spectacular scenic drives during autumn, with the changing foliage adding beauty to the landscapes. Routes like the Forgotten World Highway and Kaikoura Coast provide travellers with sweeping views of valleys, forests, and coastal cliffs, all adorned in rich autumn colours. These drives are a great way to experience the diverse scenery at a leisurely pace.
Autumn provides calm waters for kayaking and canoeing in New Zealand’s lakes and coastal areas. Paddling on lakes like Taupō offers a serene experience surrounded by stunning autumn foliage, while exploring the tranquil waters of the Marlborough Sounds presents a chance to enjoy the season’s beauty from a unique perspective.
Autumn offers quieter wildlife watching experiences in New Zealand, as fewer tourists visit during this time. It’s a great season for whale watching along the coast and for spotting migrating seabirds. Geothermal areas like those in Rotorua also provide an opportunity to enjoy both the natural landscapes and the seasonal beauty in cooler weather.
Events & Festivals in Early Autumn
Arrowtown Autumn Festival (April) – A celebration of music, art, and local heritage against a stunning autumn backdrop.
Hawke’s Bay Food & Wine Classic – A showcase of the region’s best wines, gourmet food, and live entertainment.
Local Farmers’ Markets – Enjoy fresh seasonal produce, artisanal goods, and local treats at markets across the country.
Seasonal Food & Drinks to Try
Feijoas & Persimmons – These delicious autumn fruits are widely available in markets and stores.
Pumpkin Soup & Hearty Dishes – Many cafés and restaurants offer warm, comforting meals ideal for cooler evenings.
New Zealand Wines – Try an aged Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay, perfect for the season.
Packing & Travel Tips for Autumn
Take Advantage of Off-Peak Travel
Autumn in New Zealand means fewer crowds, so take advantage of shorter lines and better availability at attractions, tours, and restaurants. It’s the perfect time for a more peaceful and enjoyable travel experience.
Layered Clothing
Autumn in New Zealand can bring varying temperatures, with warm days and cooler nights. Pack layers, such as t-shirts, long sleeves, sweaters, and a light jacket. A heavier jacket or coat may be needed for early mornings or evenings, especially in the South Island.
Waterproof Gear
Autumn weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain. Pack a lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho, and consider waterproof pants or footwear if you plan on hiking or spending time outdoors.
Sun Protection
Even in autumn, New Zealand’s UV rays can be strong. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun, especially if you’ll be outdoors for long periods.
Camera and Binoculars
Autumn offers stunning landscapes, from vibrant fall foliage to serene lakes and mountains. Bring a camera to capture the seasonal beauty, and binoculars if you’re interested in bird watching or wildlife viewing.
Insect Repellent
Although autumn is not as buggy as summer, it’s still a good idea to pack insect repellent if you’ll be spending time near lakes, forests, or rural areas.
Plan for Shorter Daylight Hours
Days get shorter in autumn, so plan your outdoor activities accordingly. Try to start hikes and scenic drives early to make the most of daylight and carry a torch if you’re venturing out in the evening.
Book Accommodations in Advance
While autumn is outside the peak summer season, popular destinations can still fill up, especially in wine regions or areas with autumn festivals. Booking your accommodations in advance ensures a stress-free stay.
