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Autumn
Mild weather and autumn colour in the south: a good time for walks, wine and small towns, after the summer crowds.
North Island
- Grape harvest time in the vineyards of Hawke's Bay
- Huka Falls and Lake Taupō, quieter after the summer holidays
- The glowworm caves at Waitomo, good in any weather
- Wellington's museums, cafés and waterfront
South Island
- Autumn colour in Arrowtown and around Lake Hayes
- Golden poplars and willows along Lake Wanaka
- Wine tasting in Central Otago
- Walks in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park in the cooler air
What to wear
Layers. A T-shirt or light top for the day, and a warm jumper or fleece for mornings and evenings. In the south, a light down jacket too.
A waterproof jacket, and shoes that can get wet.
Good to know
- Daylight saving ends on the first Sunday in April, so evenings get dark about an hour earlier.
- Easter and the April school holidays are busy. Book early for those weeks.
- From May, snow can fall on the high mountain roads. Leave some time spare in the plan.
Experiences for this time of year
The South Island in depth
Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Franz Josef, Wanaka, Queenstown, Milford Sound
View itineraryLodges, helicopters and fine food
A private trip planned around comfort, with time to enjoy each place
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