Why we recommend a Road Trip through New Zealand in Wintertime
New Zealand is a wildly beautiful country, from towering mountains and glacial country to warm, welcoming beaches - no matter what type of road trip you want to take, New Zealand will have something just right for you.
New Zealand is filled to the brim with breathtaking sights, as well as thrilling activities to do and while some may think that things may slow down in Winter, that’s not exactly the case. In fact, while Summer might generally be when most people decide to rent a campervan and take a trip around the country, we also recommend a road trip through New Zealand in the Wintertime too.
We’ve already covered what a beautiful country New Zealand is, but even individually, both the South and North Island have something to offer during the colder months.
From activities in the snow, to warming up at the end of the day in a geothermal hot spring, both Islands have something great to offer.
New Zealand may be more popular with tourists during the Summer, to the point where many people may struggle to get their first pick on a campervan, or even campsite. So by hitting the road in Wintertime, you can avoid the Summer surge and enjoy more affordable pricing with less competition from other tourists. As it’s not as busy in Winter as it is in Summer, the roads are also significantly more quiet, so even while driving you can be enjoying the views without traffic congestion. As an added bonus, since everything is cheaper, you can afford to stay even longer and really experience the best of New Zealand’s Winter.
Cardrona Alpine Resort on the South Island offers the most reliable snow conditions in the region
We mentioned it before but the snow activities in New Zealand cannot be missed. From skiing to ice skating, you’ll have your pick of things to fully enjoy the snow. Places like Cardrona and Coronet Peak are really popular for both skiing and snowboarding, both of which are only a short drive away from either ever-popular Queenstown or picturesque Wanaka. If you time it right, you might be in town for Queenstown’s annual Winter Festival. Held every year to celebrate the beginning of Winter, it’s filled with music, fireworks and even races. This annual festival is something you don’t want to miss.
New Zealand has some amazing walks that let you fully take in the natural beauty of the country, whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or just looking for a nice stroll, New Zealand will have a walk that suits you. While some of the tracks may be closed throughout Winter, there’s still a lot to choose from. In fact, a lot of the walks are even more enjoyable in Winter than in Summer because of how much the snowy landscape enhances the experience. The breathtaking wintry views in New Zealand are hard to beat.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park - Visit the highest mountain in New Zealand
The Franz Josef township is the perfect place to stop and enjoy New Zealand’s glacial country thoroughly. You can do the quick 30 minute return trip to the viewpoint of Fox Glacier, or even take a helicopter ride up onto the glacier and enjoy a guided tour with the most awe-inspiring wintry views surrounding you. New Zealand’s glacial country is beautiful year-round, but there’s nothing quite like seeing it all in the Winter time. Whilst you’re in the Franz Josef township, you don’t want to miss a fun day of kayaking on picturesque Lake Mapourika.
Before you leave the South Island, make sure you stop by Kaikoura to get in some whale watching. Humpback, blue and southern right whales are all in the middle of their migration season during June and July, so you’re more likely to catch a glimpse of them during the Winter months off the coast of Kaikoura. If you’re a fan of whale watching, this is the perfect time for you.
If you’re wanting to take your road trip up to the North Island, make sure you check out Rotorua. You can enjoy the natural geothermal hot springs which are perfect for relaxing and warming up your body at the end of the day. Especially after an action-packed road trip through the South Island, a good soak in one of Rotorua’s hot pools will do wonders for you and your body.
Auckland - Enjoy the attractions of New Zealand’s biggest city
Even in the middle of Winter, there’s still some warm weather to enjoy if you make your way up to the North Island’s Bay of Plenty. As it’s still quite warm up there, water sports such as surfing are an option if you love being at the beach. Or if you’re looking to enjoy some city life, take your road trip to Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city. With all sorts of fun activities, places to see and restaurants to eat at, Auckland has something for everyone to enjoy.
