Our 2025 Guide to Winter Travel in New Zealand

Planning a trip to New Zealand this winter? You’re in for an absolute treat. While summer often steals the spotlight, New Zealand in winter (June through August) offers a magical, crowd-free alternative brimming with adventure, natural beauty, and unique activities.

From skiing trips in Queenstown to soaking in alpine hot springs, winter tours in New Zealand provide a unique way to see the country at its most serene — and snow-dusted best. And better yet, imagine experiencing it all without having to worry about travel and accommodation. Here’s what’s in store on a Wild Kiwi winter tour of New Zealand, and our top tips for your visit!

Is it Worth Visiting New Zealand in Winter?

In our opinion, it is a resounding YES to visit New Zealand in Winter. You'll discover a side of New Zealand you never imagined, all in the least crowded time of year, with an awesome group of travellers.

Travel moments become more personal, as you explore pristine places you nearly have all to yourself (and Wild Kiwi fam) and get cosy with your new travel mates. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer to chill with a view, winter travel in New Zealand has something for every kind of traveller and all winter wanderlusts.

• Fewer tourists and more tranquil landscapes
• Skiing and snowboarding in world-class resorts
• Affordable off-season prices on flights and tours
• Hot pools, glaciers, and cosy lodges that feel straight out of a storybook
• Stunning stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the world
• Matariki Māori New Year celebrations
• Prime marine life experiences like whale watching

What to Pack for Winter in New Zealand?

Whether you're exploring the milder North or the snow-covered South Island, what you pack can make or break an afternoon excursion if you aren't prepared. Here are our packing tips for winter in New Zealand to keep you dry, toasty, and exploring in style.

Don't forget these:

• Warm hat or two, or a winter headband
• Wool socks and fast-drying socks
• Wool or fleece scarf
• Winter gloves
• Warm layers
• Water and wind-resistant jacket
• All-weather shoes or lightweight boots
• UV 400 sunglasses, minimum, and polarised is best
• UV protective lip balm
• Moisturiser
• High SPF sunscreen, you can still get burned in winter!
• Versatile clothing
• Rain jacket/windbreaker

If worst comes to worst and you don't have some winter essentials, you can always get kitted out in the world's best merino wool from New Zealand! There are also heaps of outdoor shops and second-hand stores that have great winter gear.

What is Winter Weather Like in New Zealand?

New Zealand winter can range from sunny and crisp to cold and snowy. Deep into winter months, expect the North Island to be the warmer island, but with a higher chance of rain. The South Island is colder with chances of snow. It's best to prepare for all types of weather, and certain regions like Milford Sound are actually more spectacular when it rains before!

North Island Winter Weather: From average lows of 2-5°C to highs of 12°-16°C with milder but wetter weather than the south.

South Island Winter Weather: From average lows of 0° to highs of 5-10°C, with colder days and snow.

Skiing and Snowboarding in the South Island of New Zealand

The South Island transforms into a snow-capped wonderland with one-of-a-kind winter activities opening up, including hitting the slopes! Queenstown and Wānaka are prime destinations, boasting world-famous ski fields like Coronet Peak or The Remarkables. Our Ski Southern Voyager trip taps into those looking to carve their way through New Zealand, while not being stuck to a rigid ski-centric itinerary. This allows for dazzling days on the slopes and plenty of alternate activities with a social travel flair.

What are the Best Winter Activities in New Zealand?

Activities in New Zealand don't stop just because it's gotten a tad bit colder, and plenty of activities are amplified to become even better during these months! We've already put together an extensive winter activity guide for you, but here are a couple of our top activities to look forward to.

• Stargazing in Lake Tekapo's dark sky reserve
• Soaking in hot springs in Taupo, Rotorua, and Tekapo
• Whale watching in Kaikoura is at its best in winter
• Glacier hikes at Franz Josef or Fox Glacier are breathtaking
• Milford Sound is mind-blowing in colder, wetter weather
• Hot Water Beach in Coromandel is perfect for warming up

What are the Best New Zealand Winter Festivals?

New Zealand may be chilly in winter, but it’s far from quiet. Winter is packed with unique festivals and events that celebrate everything from Māori culture to mountain sports, food, music, and starlit skies. Here’s a roundup of the top winter festivals in New Zealand, perfect for adding some buzz to your winter travel.

Matariki 2025 – Māori New Year (Nationwide)

• When: June 20th, 2025. Typically the celebration is late June or early July (date changes annually based on the lunar calendar)
• Where: Celebrated across the country
• What it is: A deeply significant cultural event marking the Māori New Year, timed with the rising of the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades).
• Expect: Storytelling, music, haka performances, hāngi feasts, and night sky events.

LUMA Enchanted

• When: May 30th-August 31st
• Where: Queenstown Kiwi Park
• What it is: A mesmerising light art festival with sculptures, projections, and illuminated trails.
• Expect: Immersive art, interactive installations, and winter magic under the stars.

Winter Pride Queenstown

• Where: Queenstown, South Island
• When: August 15-24
• What it is: A fabulous celebration of diversity, inclusivity, community, and winter fun in one of the world’s most scenic alpine towns.
• Expect: Rainbow ski days, epic nightlife events, concerts, shows, and community gatherings

Don't Miss New Zealand's Winter Wonders

Winter is New Zealand’s most underrated season. From epic alpine adventures to tranquil hot pool escapes, New Zealand winter travel offers up stunning scenery, cultural depth, and fewer crowds — all at better prices. Whether you’re chasing the slopes, seeking nature, or just looking to unwind, this is your sign to explore Aotearoa in the snow. Book your trip today and start the countdown!