Choosing the best time to visit New Zealand can completely change your travel experience. With landscapes that shift dramatically by season, knowing where to go – and when, is the key to making the most of your trip.
This New Zealand Travel Guide breaks the year down month-by-month, highlighting some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, all located close to one of our TOP 10 Holiday Parks. Whether you’re travelling by campervan, caravan, or staying in a cabin, this guide helps you plan smarter, travel seasonally, and stay well positioned wherever the road takes you.
Summer in NZ (December - February): Beaches, Sun & School Holidays
December - Bay of Islands
December marks the start of peak summer and is one of the best times to visit New Zealand for warm weather and coastal adventures. The Bay of Islands is a standout destination, known for its sheltered bays, historic towns, and relaxed holiday atmosphere.
Stay Nearby: Paihia TOP 10 Holiday Park or Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why December? Long daylight hours, festive energy and excellent boating and beach conditions.
January - Mount Maunganui
January is classic Kiwi summer, and Mount Maunganui is one of the most popular places to visit in New Zealand during this time. With surf beaches, hot days, and the iconic Mauao walk, it’s ideal for families and beach lovers.
Stay Nearby: Ōmokoroa TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why January? Peak summer weather, vibrant town life, and unbeatable beach access.
February - Abel Tasman National Park
February is often considered one of the best times to visit New Zealand, thanks to settled weather and warm sea temperatures. Abel Tasman National Park shines with golden beaches, coastal walks, and kayaking adventures.
Stay Nearby: Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park or Pohara Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why February? Summer conditions with slightly fewer crowds than January.
Autumn in New Zealand (March - May): Mild Weather & Fewer Crowds
March - Rotorua
Autumn begins with warm days and cooler nights, making March a fantastic time to explore geothermal regions. Rotorua is a must-visit destination in any New Zealand Travel Guide, offering lakes, forests, and world-famous geothermal attractions.
Stay Nearby: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why March? Comfortable temperatures and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
April - Martinborough
April brings harvest season to wine country, and Martinborough becomes one of the most enjoyable places to visit in New Zealand. Vineyards glow with autumn colour and cycling between cellar doors is a highlight.
Stay Nearby: Martinborough TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why April? Grape Harvest, calm weather, and a relaxed pace.
May - Tolaga Bay
May is a hidden-gem month to explore the East Coast, and Tolaga Bay offers peaceful coastal scenery, rich history, and uncrowded beaches. With shorter days and cooler temperatures, it’s ideal for slow travel and off-the-beaten-track experiences.
Home to the longest wharf in the Southern Hemisphere, Tolaga Bay is one of those places to visit in New Zealand that feels untouched, especially outside peak summer.
Stay Nearby: Tolaga Bay TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why May? Fewer visitors, mild autumn weather, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere before winter arrives.
Winter in New Zealand (June - August): Snow, Hot Pools & Alpine Escapes
June - Queenstown
Winter officially arrives in June, and Queenstown becomes a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and alpine adventure. It’s a key destination in any New Zealand Travel Guide focused on winter travel.
Stay Nearby: Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why June? Early ski season with fewer visitors than peak winter months.
July - Taupō
For a winter escape without heading to the slopes, Taupō is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand. The combination of lake views and geothermal hot pools makes it perfect for cold-weather travel.
Taupō is also situated close to North Island’s main skiing locations, Mount Ruapehu, making it a perfect place to spend the night if you plan on hitting the slopes.
Stay Nearby: Taupō TOP 10 Holiday Park or Motutere Bay TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why July? Crisp winter days, cosy nights, and geothermal warmth.
August - Hanmer Springs
August is all about relaxation in Hanmer Springs. With thermal pools, alpine scenery, and winter charm, it’s a favourite stop during the colder months.
Stay Nearby: Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why August? Peak winter atmosphere and rejuvenating hot pools.
Spring in New Zealand (September - November): Colour, Calm & New Energy
September - Akaroa
Spring arrives gently in Akaroa, making September a refreshing time to explore this historic harbour town on Banks Peninsula. With blooming gardens, calm seas, and fewer visitors, Akaroa is one of the quieter yet rewarding places to visit in New Zealand as the seasons change.
Wildlife cruises, coastal walks, and café-lined streets are all best enjoyed in the mild spring weather, making it a great option for travellers looking to experience the best time to visit New Zealand without peak-season crowds.
Stay Nearby: Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why September? Mild spring temperatures, blooming landscapes, and a relaxed pace before summer arrives.
October - Taranaki
October is an ideal time to explore gardens, coastal walks, and mountain views around Mount Taranaki. The region comes alive with spring growth and festivals.
Stay Nearby: New Plymouth TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why October? Mild temperatures and excellent hiking conditions.
November - Nelson
As summer approaches, Nelson offers sunshine, beaches, and outdoor adventure without peak-season crowds.
Stay Nearby: Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park
Why November? Warm weather, long days, and great value before summer demand spikes.
No matter the season, there’s always a destination waiting. Explore TOP 10 Holiday Parks and use this New Zealand travel guide to plan your journey month by month - travelling smarter, staying central, and making the most of every season.