12 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand in Winter
Thinking of visiting New Zealand in winter? You’re in for a treat.
Whether you’re keen to embrace snowy landscapes or want to experience beach towns without the crowds, winter is a fantastic time to visit New Zealand—as long as you know what to expect.
In contrast to the peak summer season, winter is considered the low season in New Zealand.
This means that, aside from ski towns like Queenstown and Wanaka, you can expect fewer crowds (and often lower prices) for many of the country’s top destinations.
I live in the South Island and while I’m a summer girl at heart, I can say with total honesty that winter is a magical time to explore New Zealand.
Snow-capped mountains? Hot pools to soak in? Uncrowded beaches? Yes, please!
In this guide, I’m sharing my favourite places to visit in New Zealand in winter, plus my tips on what to expect from a winter trip.
FYI: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). I only share products & services I use, love & would recommend to a friend.
When is winter in New Zealand?
Winter in New Zealand runs from June through August.
That said, in snowy destinations like Queenstown and Wanaka, it can often feel wintry well into October.
Is it worth visiting New Zealand in winter?
Yes, it’s worth visiting New Zealand in winter—as long as you know what to expect.
In winter, daylight hours are shorter, and some roads can close periodically due to snow, ice or landslides. Some high-elevation hikes will be inaccessible because of winter conditions.
On the upside, you’ll get to see snow-capped mountains, soak in hot pools, and enjoy coastal and low-elevation hikes. Beaches will be nearly deserted. You’ll get to enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices than the rest of the year (with the exception of ski towns like Queenstown and Wanaka).
As long as you’re prepared to be flexible with your plans and bundle up warm, you’ll have a great time exploring New Zealand in winter.
How cold is New Zealand in winter?
Winter temperatures in New Zealand vary quite a bit depending on where you go.
In the South Island, alpine destinations like Queenstown, Wanaka, and Lake Tekapo regularly experience frosty mornings and snowfall in the surrounding mountains. Daytime temperatures are often somewhere between 0-10℃ (32-50℉) in winter.
The North Island is generally much milder, with the exception of mountainous areas like Tongariro National Park. While you probably won’t experience snow outside of alpine areas, you can still expect cool temperatures and crisp mornings. Rain and grey days aren’t uncommon.
No matter where you travel in New Zealand in winter, it’s a good idea to pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket.
Where does it snow in New Zealand in winter?
If you’re hoping to see snow in New Zealand, your best bet is to visit the South Island.
Popular snowy destinations include Queenstown, Wanaka, Lake Tekapo, and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Snow is common in alpine areas and around ski fields in the winter months.
In the North Island, snow is mostly limited to higher elevations around Tongariro National Park.
Places to visit in New Zealand in winter
Now that you know what to expect from winter in New Zealand, let’s get to the fun part: where to go.
Whether you’re hoping for snowy mountain scenery, steaming hot pools, or quieter coastal escapes, these are some of my favourite places to visit in New Zealand in winter.
Places to visit in the North Island in winter
1. Bay of Islands
For a relatively warm winter escape, head to the Bay of Islands.
Located above Auckland in the subtropical “Winterless North,” the Bay of Islands is a wonderful place to visit if you’d like to enjoy coastal walks, explore historic towns, and get out on the water.
This popular summer destination is far less crowded in winter, and you can still do almost everything you’d do in summer aside from swimming in the sea (unless you pack a wetsuit or just brave the cold water!).
What to do in the Bay of Islands in winter
- Take a ferry to visit the charming historic town of Russell.
- Hop on a cruise to explore the Bay of Islands from the water.
- Visit Kerikeri, where you can walk along the Kerikeri River Trail, pop into the historic Stone Store, and pick up local produce at the Old Packhouse Market or Bay of Islands Farmers’ Market.
- Drive up to the Mahinepua Peninsula Track to enjoy one of the North Island’s best day hikes.
Where to stay in the Bay of Islands
→ Abri Apartments for great views and spa baths
2. Rotorua
Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity, and I think winter is the best time to visit.
The cooler weather is ideal for soaking in hot pools and exploring geothermal parks with steam rising up into the cold air.
It doesn’t snow in Rotorua, so you can still enjoy bush walks as you would in summer.
I don’t know about you, but bundling up for a walk in nature followed by a hot pool soak is honestly my idea of a perfect winter’s day!
What to do in Rotorua in winter
- Soak in a hot pool—choose from a commercial hot pool complex like the Polynesian Spa or one of the free hot springs in Rotorua for a back-to-nature experience.
- Visit a geothermal park: Wai-o-Tapu, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, and Te Puia are all excellent options. Or, for a free thing to do in Rotorua, walk through Kuirau Park, which has a geothermal foot bath and steaming springs to see.
- Go for a bush walk. Okere Falls, the Blue Lake Loop Track, and Whakarewarewa Redwood Forest are all beautiful, easy walks.
- Enjoy Rotorua’s delicious food scene. I love Atticus Finch for share plates, the Fainting Goat for platters, and Sabroso for fantastic Mexican food and margaritas.
Where to stay in Rotorua
→ Kings on Peace for apartment-style accommodation with a private spa pool
3. Taupo
Taupo is a lovely lakeside town that has a lot to offer in winter.
This is quite a unique destination because Taupo feels like an alpine lake town, but it’s also home to natural geothermal activity (read: epic hot pools).
I’ve never found anywhere else quite like it, to be honest!
What to do in Taupo in winter
- Soak in a hot pool. I absolutely love Wairakei Terraces (they are so worth the modest entry fee), or go to Spa Park for an epic free hot pool option.
- Walk or bike along the Great Lake Pathway. There are hot spots at the lakeside beaches along the path where you can dip your toes into the steaming water.
- See the vibrant blue waters of Huka Falls.
- Go for a geothermal walk at Craters of the Moon.
- Enjoy a meal at one of the many delicious eateries in Taupo. I’m a huge fan of Replete Cafe for brunch, and I also love Lionel’s for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Where to stay in Taupo
→ The Hilton Taupo for the heated pool and spa
4. The Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel is a gorgeous peninsula on the east coast of the North Island, known for its beautiful beaches.
While most people think of the Coromandel as a summer destination, I actually love visiting in winter when there are far fewer crowds.
You could either pick a base in a beach town like Hahei or Whitianga to do day trips from, or go on a road trip around the Coromandel if you have a few days to explore.
What to do in the Coromandel in winter
- Dig your own hot pool in the sand at the famous Hot Water Beach.
- Hike or take a boat tour into Cathedral Cove, a famous Coromandel beach known for its epic rock archway.
- Book a luxurious hot pool soak at the Lost Springs.
- Explore uncrowded beaches—some of my favourite Coromandel beaches are Lonely Bay, New Chums, and Otama Bay.
- Go for a ride on the Driving Creek Railway, a charming and quirky hand-built mountain railway that leads you through regenerating forest to a beautiful lookout area.
Where to stay in the Coromandel
→ The Church for a cosy boutique stay amidst lush gardens
5. Ohakune
Located at the southern end of Tongariro National Park, Ohakune is the North Island’s main ski town.
If you’re keen to see snow in the North Island, Ohakune is the perfect destination. Even if you don’t plan to ski or snowboard, it’s a great place to enjoy some snowy scenery.
What to do in Ohakune in winter
- Go skiing or snowboarding at Whakapapa or Turoa.
- Bundle up and go for a winter walk to Waitonga Falls, Taranaki Falls, and/or Tawhai Falls.
- Head to the Powderkeg for apres-ski vibes.
- Book a soak in the Ohakune Hot Tubs.
Where to stay in Ohakune
→ The Powderhorn Chateau for alpine lodge vibes and the heated indoor lagoon pool
6. Martinborough
If you love wine, I highly recommend visiting Martinborough, a countryside wine village in the Wairarapa Region.
This used to be one of my favourite winter getaways from Wellington when I lived in the capital city, and I never tire of visiting.
While the vineyards will be bare of leaves, it’s still beautiful here even in the colder months. It’s also far less busy than the rest of the year, which is a win in my book.
What to do in Martinborough in winter
- Hire bikes to cycle to the cellar doors around town. Poppies is my favourite winery for a lunch platter (they are truly incredible), and I also love Moy Hall, Cambridge Road, and Columbo for wine tastings.
- Have brunch at one of the cosy cafes in Martinborough. I always love Cafe Medici.
- For a rugged adventure, go on a day trip to Cape Palliser to see the seal colony and hike up to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse.
Where to stay in Martinborough
→ The Martinborough Hotel for a cosy boutique stay right in the heart of town
Places to visit in the South Island in winter
7. Queenstown
If you’re dreaming of a classic snowy New Zealand winter trip, Queenstown is hard to beat.
While it’s best known for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities, there are so many things to do in winter in Queenstown even if you don’t do winter sports.
What to do in Queenstown in winter
- Go skiing or snowboarding at the Remarkables or Coronet Peak.
- Book a Lake Wakatipu cruise onboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship.
- Drive from Queenstown to Arrowtown, a historic gold mining village packed with charm.
- Take the scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy.
- Soak in the Onsen Hot Pools.
- Go wine tasting in Gibbston Valley.
- Enjoy Queenstown’s cosy cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Where to stay in Queenstown
→ Scenic Suites for great views and the option to have a full kitchen
Further reading: A 5-day Queenstown winter itinerary
8. Wanaka
Like Queenstown, Wanaka is one of the top destinations for skiing and snowboarding in New Zealand.
Wanaka is just as beautiful as Queenstown, but has a bit more of a local feel and a very laid-back vibe.
What to do in Wanaka in winter
- Go skiing or snowboarding at Cardrona or Treble Cone.
- Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or tubing at Snow Farm.
- See the famous Wanaka Tree.
- Catch a movie at the iconic Cinema Paradiso.
- Sample Wanaka’s craft beer scene.
- Eat delicious food at Wanaka’s fantastic eateries—Scroggin, Big Fig, and the Brownston Street food trucks are a few of my favourite spots.
- Take a wintery walk along a low-elevation trail like the Waterfall Creek Trail or Upper Clutha River Trail; or head up to Mount Iron for gorgeous views over Wanaka.
Where to stay in Wanaka
→ Archway Motels for beautiful rooms close to town and an onsite hot tub
9. Lake Tekapo
In the colder months, Lake Tekapo turns into a winter wonderland.
This turquoise lake is stunning any time of year, but the colour feels even more vibrant when surrounded by crisp white snow.
This is the perfect place to simply relax and enjoy the views, but there are also plenty of activities to enjoy if you’re feeling adventurous.
What to do in Lake Tekapo in winter
- Soak in the Tekapo Springs hot pools while overlooking the snowy landscape around Lake Tekapo.
- Go skiing at the Roundhill Ski Area, Mount Dobson or Lake Ohau.
- Bundle up and go stargazing after dark—Lake Tekapo is part of a Dark Sky Reserve.
- Enjoy a meal at a cosy cafe. I love the Greedy Cow Cafe for breakfast, and it’s always fun to grab coffee and cake from Astro Cafe at the top of Mount John, where you’ll get incredible views over Lake Tekapo.
- Day trip from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park to get up-close views of the mountains covered in snow.
Where to stay in Tekapo
→ The Mackenzie Suites for great views and very cosy rooms
10. Hanmer Springs
For the ultimate winter treat, plan a visit to the resort town of Hanmer Springs.
This alpine town is best known for its famous hot pool complex, and it’s a fantastic place to relax and unwind.
What to do in Hanmer Springs
- Soak in the hot pools at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- Go for a bush walk on one of the many trails around Hanmer Springs. An easy option is the Forest Amble Sculpture Walk, a gentle woodland trail.
- Enjoy a hearty meal at one of the eateries around town—I recommend the Powerhouse Cafe for breakfast and lunch, or No. 31 Restaurant and Bar for a special dinner.
Where to stay in Hanmer Springs
→ Settlers Boutique Motel for a relaxing stay right in town
11. Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a unique destination in New Zealand where snow-capped mountains meet the sea.
Winter is a fantastic time to visit, as it’s often when you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife like whales and dolphins. It’s also far less busy than summer.
What to do in Kaikoura
- Go on a whale watching cruise to see Kaikoura from the water and look for whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds.
- Walk the fantastic Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, a gorgeous coastal trail that’s home to heaps of New Zealand fur seals. It’s so stunning in winter when you can see snow-capped mountains in the background.
- Enjoy a meal out at a cosy cafe or restaurant in Kaikoura. I recommend Flo & Co or the Bus Stop Cafe for breakfast; for dinner, Slam Club or Zephyr are both great. The Pier Hotel is a nice spot for a drink with a view.
- Get a craft beer and play a round of mini golf at Emporium Brewing.
Where to stay in Kaikoura
→ The Sudima Hotel for a beautiful stay right across from the sea
12. Abel Tasman National Park & the Nelson Tasman Region
While much of the South Island embraces winter with snow and ski fields, the Nelson Tasman Region offers something completely different.
Winter here is often sunny and mild, making it a fantastic time to enjoy coastal scenery, local cafes, and quieter hiking trails in Abel Tasman National Park.
What to do in Nelson Tasman in winter
- Walk a section of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, which is so much quieter in winter than the rest of the year—and just as gorgeous as always!
- Visit the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach with hardly anyone else around. The trail from Kaiteriteri to Stephens Bay is also a wonderful winter walk.
- Enjoy coffee and meals at cosy cafes—I love Little Dove in Nelson, and Toad Hall in Motueka.
- Sample craft beer made from the region’s local hops. The Free House in Nelson, Hop Federation in Riwaka, and Golden Bear in Mapua are all great spots for craft beer.
- Explore Golden Bay.
Where to stay in Nelson & Abel Tasman National Park
→ Abel Tasman Lodge for the fantastic location, cosiest rooms and onsite hot tub.
Or see my guide to the best places to stay near Abel Tasman National Park.
Thanks for reading my New Zealand winter guide!
I truly hope this has helped you plan your trip.
Winter in New Zealand might not suit everyone, but if you’re prepared for cooler weather and a bit of flexibility, it can be a great time to visit.
As always, please leave a comment if you have any questions or feedback for me—I really love hearing from you!
Some New Zealand itineraries for you
If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, these itineraries might help get you started:
