Travel guide: New Zealand 🇳🇿

Best time to visit

• New Zealand can experience four seasons in one day, so whenever you visit, be prepared for rain or shine.
• Spring (September to November) is a great time to see blooming flowers and baby animals. It's perfect for activities like hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, as well as visiting gardens and enjoying outdoor festivals
• Summer (December to February) is the peak season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and water sports. This is also the best time to visit beaches and explore the stunning coastline
• Autumn (March to May) is blessed with mild temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It's perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and mountain biking, as well as wine tasting in regions like Marlborough and Central Otago
• Winter (June to August) is the low season with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. It's perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Alps, as well as soaking in hot springs and visiting geothermal attractions

Good to know

• New Zealand is known for its stunning natural landscapes and unique wildlife. Respect the environment and follow guidelines for interacting with wildlife, especially in protected areas. The country is proud of its Tiaki Philosophy -  a Māori word that means "to care for people and place"
• You must make a biosecurity declaration before entering the country
• Public transport links are not great outside Auckland, and the country is very car- and flight-dependent.
• Indigenous Māori culture runs deep in New Zealand, so please be mindful of the local iwi (tribe) customs. Indigenous culture shows deep respect for elemental forces and non-human beings. For example, the mountain tops are often considered sacred, and it is the local custom not to stand on the mountain summits
• Rotorua is significant for its Māori culture. The Ohinemutu village was the original settlement for the Māori. It is also a place of geothermal wonders;  Kauri dieback disease is a big threat to New Zealand's native kauri trees. Help prevent the spread of this disease by cleaning your footwear with the disinfectant and scrubbing brushes provided at the start of many walking tracks
• When visiting predator-free islands, or islands that are becoming pest-free, make sure to check your gear before leaving the mainland
• Whale watching is a popular activity around Kaikōura. Resident Sperm Whales can be seen all year round, Orca sightings are likely between December and March, and Humpback Whales in June and July. Dolphin sightings are common

Check out Kodama Travel's New Zealand Tours