What is the best time to walk in New Zealand?
The main New Zealand walking season is from October to April/May.
New Zealand offers beautiful landscapes and diverse outdoor experiences throughout the year. The best time to take a walking holiday in New Zealand depends on your preferences and the specific region you plan to visit. Here are some considerations for each season:
- Summer (December to February): This is the peak tourist season in New Zealand, with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's an excellent time for walking holidays, especially in the South Island's alpine regions and the famous Great Walks, such as the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks.
- Autumn (March to May): Autumn in New Zealand brings mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning Autumn foliage. It's a great time for walking holidays where you can enjoy beautiful colours and comfortable temperatures.
- Spring (September to November): Spring in New Zealand is a transitional season, with emerging wildflowers, green landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to summer. It's a good time to explore coastal walks and national parks. However, be aware that spring weather can be unpredictable, so pack appropriate clothing and check the conditions beforehand.
We recommend booking well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, just to ensure we can secure bookings on your preferred track.
What our other guests have said
I just wanted to let you know that we finished our amazing trip yesterday! The whole trip went really well - we truly enjoyed the beautiful sounds. Apart from the first day, the weather was great for walking. Thank you for helping us to make this happen! Your efforts are much appreciated!
Fiona, Queen Charlotte Track, November 2020
We all had an amazing time with everything organised so well and the accommodation and meals, packed lunches were incredible and definitely first rate. It was so great to get to such gorgeous lodges each day. I absolutely loved every minute and could not believe how spectacular the walk was. The...
Cindy, Queen Charlotte Track, February/March 2019
We had a blast! Everything was taken care off, really beautiful hikes, the best food, a lovely place to stay and a nice small group with a great guide. We think nothing can top this experience!
Chris and Ilya, Tongariro Lodge based Guided tour, January 2024