New Zealand's seasons are opposite those of the Northern Hemisphere.
Summer:
Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar: offers warm weather and long days, perfect for outdoor activities. As this is in New Zealand's peak period we highly recommend giving at least 6-12 months lead time. (Peak rates are applicable during this period).
During our shoulder seasons, the weather tends to be more settled, there are fewer people, and we see crisp clear days:
Spring:
Sept, Oct, Nov; Spring lambs, vibrant blue skies and green grass, spring flowers and pleasant weather.
Autumn/Fall:
Apr, May; changing of the leaves – vibrant red tree’s and foliage and milder temperatures. There is more availability and more flexibility to hold as well.
Winter:
June, July, Aug; Winter is our low season; unless you ski! The weather can be more wet and grey but beautiful travel for other reasons; fireplaces, hot tubs.
Matariki:
NZ's Māori New Year, is in June; NZ is renowned for its Astronomy Tours and Stargazing and in the winter months it gets dark earlier so easier to see the night skies. Matariki is a time of remembrance, a time to celebrate the present, and a time to look forward to the promise of a new year.
LEAD TIMES:
Christmas / NYE bookings: you should really be looking at booking at least 12 months out (it is always tough creating an itinerary based on what's available rather than what best suits your or your client's interests).
New Zealand also has stricter hold and cancellation terms & conditions over this period.
