The short answer
- Ski season
- About mid June to early October
- Southern lights
- Best May to August
- Road warning
- Milford Road, chains needed
- Mild option
- The North Island
Winter turns the South Island's mountains white, and Queenstown and Wanaka fill with skiers. Days are short and frosty but often clear and still, ideal for photography and stargazing. The North Island stays mild and green.
Things to do in winter
- Skiing: Coronet Peak and the Remarkables near Queenstown, Cardrona and Treble Cone near Wanaka, and Mount Ruapehu in the North Island.
- Southern lights: Look south on clear, dark nights from Lake Tekapo, the Catlins or Stewart Island.
- Hot pools: Rotorua, Hanmer Springs and Tekapo's hot pools.
- Milford Sound: Snow capped peaks and fewer visitors; check the road before you go.
- Queenstown Winter Festival: Usually in late June, with concerts and events.
What to watch out for
- Roads: Alpine passes, including the Milford Road and the Crown Range, can need chains or close for snow or avalanche risk.
- Walks: Great Walks huts lose their wardens and gas, and alpine tracks such as the Tongariro Crossing need a guide.
- Daylight: About 9 hours in the south in June, so plan shorter driving days.
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Frequently asked questions
Is New Zealand worth visiting in winter?
Yes, for skiing, snowy scenery and the southern lights, with fewer visitors outside the ski towns.
When does the ski season start in New Zealand?
Usually mid to late June, running to about early October, depending on snow.
Can you see the southern lights in New Zealand?
Yes, on clear dark nights, best from May to August in the far south and around Lake Tekapo.
New Zealand month by month
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