April showcases autumn foliage in the South Island with the Easter break in New Zealand a popular local holiday hotspot. Remember to check when Easter occurs and plan accommodation beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Is it your first time in New Zealand and not sure what to do? Check out nz best things to do and let’s sort out which is the best month to visit to tick off your bucket list holiday activities.

What is happening in New Zealand in April?
April in New Zealand is an amazing time to capture that beautiful autumn colour.
April is the foliage burst of autumn colour month yet is relatively quiet. Temperatures are comfortable during the day yet the nights will be chilly especially in the South Island. location. April autumn foliage does not have the drama of the Northern hemisphere yet the scenery adds to the charm. Public parks and gardens are starting to wear their winter coats.
- Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow (every alternate year over Easter weekend): The air show is thrilling with vintage aircraft giving visitors a spectacular show in one of New Zealand’s top visitor destinations, Wanaka.

Schools have their autumn holidays (2 weeks) so check the school holiday schedule beforehand when planning your trip.
North Island NZ April monthly average temperature:
- Average low 7°c 45°F
- Average high 20°c 68°F
South Island NZ April monthly average temperature:
- Average low 4°c
- Average high 18°c


Check out New Zealand average temperatures for the month you are planning to visit either the North or South Island. Or anywhere in between. The most reliable weather forecast service is NZ Met Service.
Weather in New Zealand is four seasons in one day. Aotearoa New Zealand is several skinny narrow islands isolated in the southwest Pacific Ocean. Glorious day throughout the year is a promise together with the option of rain throughout the year.
Seasons are the opposite to Europe, United Kingdom, North America (northern hemisphere) creating a great winter escape for our neighbours in the Far East and beyond. Peak season is summer, December to February.
Travel pack information
- NEW ZEALAND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
- Monthly temperature data is sourced from Monthly | NIWA. For visitors fascinated by climate change data NIWA provides a rich publicly available resource to browse
- Source The uniqueness of New Zealand plants an excellent school resource handy for visitors to help understand NZ’s unique biodiversity