Best Times to Visit the South Island

A Seasonal Guide for Road Trip Enthusiasts

A road trip through New Zealand’s South Island offers stunning landscapes and diverse activities, but the experience can vary significantly depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each season for various activities:

Summer (December – February)

• Pros:
  • Warmest temperatures, ideal for hiking, swimming, and water sports.
  • Longest daylight hours, maximizing time for exploration.
  • All hiking trails, including the Great Walks, are typically open.
  • Vibrant atmosphere with numerous festivals and events.
  • Excellent for enjoying the coastal areas and beaches.
• Cons:
  • Peak tourist season, leading to larger crowds and higher prices.
  • Bookings for accommodations and activities are essential, often well in advance.
  • Some popular locations can feel overcrowded.

Autumn (March – May)

• Pros:
  • Pleasant temperatures, suitable for outdoor activities.
  • Stunning autumn foliage, particularly in areas like Arrowtown and Central Otago.
  • Fewer crowds compared to summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
  • Potentially lower prices for accommodations and rentals.
  • Great for wine tours, in regions like Marlborough.
• Cons:
  • Temperatures begin to cool down, especially in the evenings.
  • Some hiking trails may close towards the end of autumn.
  • Increased rainfall in some areas.

Winter (June – August)

• Pros:
  • Ideal for snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, in areas like Queenstown and Wanaka.
  • Beautiful snowy landscapes, creating a winter wonderland.
  • Fewer tourists, resulting in a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Lower prices for accommodations and some activities (excluding ski resorts).
  • Hot springs are very enjoyable during these colder months.
• Cons:
  • Cold temperatures, requiring warm clothing.
  • Shorter daylight hours, limiting time for outdoor activities.
  • Some roads and hiking trails may be closed due to snow and ice.
  • Increased risk of adverse weather conditions.

Spring (September – November)

• Pros:
  • Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, creating picturesque scenery.
  • Newborn wildlife can be observed.
  • Fewer crowds compared to summer.
  • Temperatures begin to warm up, making hiking enjoyable.
  • Spring Skiing can be great in September.
• Cons:
  • Weather can be unpredictable, with potential for rain and wind.
  • Some higher altitude hiking trails may still be inaccessible due to snow.
  • Water temperatures are still cold.

Road Trip Activities by Season:

• Hiking:
  • Summer and autumn are generally the best.
  • Spring can be good, but check trail conditions.
  • Winter hiking is limited due to snow.
• Water Sports (kayaking, rafting, etc.):
  • Summer is ideal.
  • Autumn and spring can be enjoyable, but water temperatures may be cooler.
• Skiing/Snowboarding:
  • Winter is the prime season.
• Wildlife Viewing:
  • Spring is excellent for observing newborn animals.
  • Year-round opportunities exist, but specific species vary.
• Scenic Drives:
  • Enjoyable year-round, but winter requires caution due to potential road hazards.
• Wine Tours:
  • Autumn is a very popular time, but spring and summer are also great.
• Hot springs:
  • Winter is the most popular time, but they can be enjoyed year round.