Visiting New Zealand in winter offers a unique and enchanting experience that reveals a different side of this beautiful country. With fewer crowds, clear skies perfect for stargazing, and the magical sight of snow-dusted scenery, winter is an ideal time to discover the many wonders that make New Zealand a top travel destination year-round.
From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the steaming geothermal pools of Rotorua, winter in New Zealand is a season of stunning contrasts and unforgettable adventures.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to carve up the slopes at world-class ski resorts, a nature lover eager to explore the serene landscapes, or someone looking to indulge in the warm hospitality and rich cultural experiences, New Zealand in winter promises an array of activities that cater to all tastes.
Need help finding the perfect winter experience? Try our free, no-obligation quote service and let us do the hard work for you.
Things to do in New Zealand in Winter
Relax in Boutique Accommodations
Cozy Stays – Choose from charming bed and breakfasts, luxury lodges, self-catering accommodation or remote retreats where you can enjoy warm hospitality and stunning winter scenery.
NORTH ISLAND
Skiing and Snowboarding at Mt Ruapehu
Whakapapa and Tūroa are the largest ski fields in New Zealand, located on the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu, providing excellent skiing and snowboarding options with stunning volcanic scenery. Bae yourself in the Tongariro National Park to experience skiing, and snowfall within picturesque country towns.
Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools
The North Island is home to numerous natural hot springs, thanks to its significant geothermal activity.
Known for its healing mud baths and sulphurous hot pools, Hell’s Gate in Rotorua is a unique geothermal reserve with mud pools, hot waterfalls, and a chance to experience traditional Māori healing and culture. Features: Mud baths, sulphur spas, and geothermal walks.
Otumuheke Stream in Taupo is located at Spa Thermal Park. This hot stream flows into the Waikato River, creating natural hot pools where visitors can relax. Features: Free access, natural setting.
Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula is a unique beach where visitors can dig their own hot pools in the sand during low tide, thanks to underground geothermal activity. Features: Free access, beach setting, tidal timing is crucial.
Mount Hot Pools in Mount Maunganui is a popular hot springs complex located at the base of Mount Maunganui (Mauao) in the Bay of Plenty region. This facility offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience with its heated saltwater pools, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Cultural Experiences in Rotorua
Whakarewarewa, located in Rotorua, New Zealand, is a living geothermal village and a prominent cultural and natural attraction. Known for its geothermal activity and rich Māori heritage, Whakarewarewa offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural wonders and cultural traditions of the region.
Mitai Māori Village in Rotorua is a highly regarded cultural attraction that offers an immersive experience into traditional Māori culture. Located in a natural bush setting, it provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about Māori traditions, watch captivating performances, and enjoy authentic Māori cuisine.
Known as the winterless north, Northland is New Zealand’s northernmost region, and offers a range of activities and attractions even during the winter months. While the weather can be cooler and wetter, many of Northland’s highlights remain enjoyable and accessible.
- Explore the historic town of Russell and the scenic beauty of the Bay of Islands.
- Explore the historic Kerikeri Basin and the charming town of Kerikeri. Visit the Stone Store, New Zealand’s oldest stone building, and the nearby Kemp House.
- Visit the ancient Waipoua Forest to see some of New Zealand’s largest and oldest Kauri trees.
- Discover the Kauri Museum in the quiet picturesque country town of Matakohe, located just 1 hour, 45 minutes from Auckland CBD. Learn about the history of the region, and the famous native kauri tree. Explore historic buildings and enjoy lunch at the Gumdiggers Café with stunning views of the Northland countryside. The perfect day trip from Auckland.
- Travel around the beautiful Tutukaka Coast and its surrounding natural beauty.
- Spend the day at Kiwi North, a popular tourist attraction and Kiwi encounter located in Whangarei. It offers a unique combination of cultural, natural, and historical experiences, making it a great place to learn about New Zealand’s heritage and wildlife.
- While in Whangarei, enjoy a great day our at HeadsUp Adventures to experience the best activities in Northland like Mountain Bikes, Monster Scooters, Forest Paintball, and more!
Te Papa Tongarewa: New Zealand’s national museum offers fascinating exhibits on the country’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Weta Workshop: Take a tour of the studio responsible for the special effects in “The Lord of the Rings” and many other films.
Guided Tours: Join Kaewa Tours for unforgettable private tours of Wellington, Kāpiti and Wairarapa. Experience wine, food, craft beer, scenic tours and Lord of the Rings tours with friendly professional guides.
Go Rafting: Wellington Rafting offers exciting white-water rafting experiences. Catering to various skill levels, the company provides guided trips on some of the region’s most scenic and thrilling rivers, with an emphasis on safety, adventure, and environmental appreciation.
Enjoy tastings and tours in one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, known for its red wines and beautiful landscapes.
SOUTH ISLAND
Skiing and Snowboarding
Queenstown and Wanaka: With popular ski fields such as Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Cardrona, these towns are winter sports hubs.
Glacier Exploration
Take a guided walk or a helicopter tour to experience these stunning ice formations up close.
After a busy day exploring soak in natural hot tubs in Franz Josef in a lush rainforest setting.
Whale Watching & Wildlife Encounters in Kaikoura
Winter is an excellent time to see sperm whales and other marine life in Kaikoura.
Visit vineyards and enjoy wine tastings, especially of the region’s renowned Pinot Noir.
Enjoy a hot soak at River Rock Estate Hot Pools in Cromwell. Open to the public, try one of the seven intimate private hot pools. Set amongst grain silos, a stables style building, an olive grove, stone and rocky outcrops with native plantings all with views of the surrounding mountains and vineyard. The Hot Pools temperatures range from 34 – 40 degrees. The complex is only suitable for adults.
Experience the fjord in its quieter, winter state with dramatic landscapes and waterfalls often enhanced by rain and snow.
Explore the city’s winter garden, take a punt ride on the Avon River, or visit the International Antarctic Centre.
Enjoy family fun at MoveX indoor trampoline park, or Laser Tag Christchurch.
Spend the day at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, New Zealand’s most comprehensive themed wildlife park and Kiwi encounter.
Experience salmon and trout fly fishing trips with Neil Goldie, a fishing specialists in the South Island.
Go on a guided wine tour through the stunning Waipara Valley.
Join Alpine Jet Thrills in Christchurch for an exhilarating jet boating experience on the Waimakariri River, located just outside of Christchurch. Known for its thrilling rides and stunning natural scenery, Alpine Jet Thrills provides an exciting way to explore the region.
Explore Christchurch’s hidden gems with Āmiki Tours on a Māori culture and food tour on foot. Experience the city’s natural beauty, indulge in exquisite dining, and follow unique trails enriched with Māori and multicultural storytelling. Uncover the tales of the past and present, immerse yourself in local Māori culture, and create unforgettable moments and memories to take home.
GENERAL ACTIVITIES
Some of the Great Walks, like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or parts of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, can be enjoyed in winter with appropriate preparation and gear.
Visit museums, art galleries, and aquariums across the country, such as Te Papa in Wellington or the Auckland Art Gallery.
The clear winter skies offer fantastic opportunities for stargazing, especially in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Waterfalls
Winter often brings more rain to New Zealand, which can lead to higher water flow in waterfalls, making them more dramatic and powerful. The contrast between the lush, green vegetation of waterfalls and the stark, wintry landscape can create dramatic and striking visuals.
