Forget the crowds and relish New Zealand’s autumn’s leafy highlights. The outdoors in March and April in New Zealand showcases the change of seasons with bright red, bronze and soft gold foliage displays. While there is a nip in the air in the evenings, the balmy autumn temperature in Auckland (average high is 23 c) with Queenstown / Wanaka in the South Island (average high of 19c) makes for pleasant travelling conditions.
Want to discover more about New Zealand weather, check out Seasons in New Zealand: Weather and Rainfall Travel Facts for Overseas Visitors
WHAT IS HAPPENING IN NEW ZEALAND IN MARCH?
In NZ March is a shoulder season month with travel deals in most tourist areas. However some tourist operators whose outdoor attractions are weather dependent could be working limited hours or closed. Check beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Be prepared for a cold snap or blustery weather when outdoors. If Easter holidays occur in March there is a spike of local visitors to holiday hot spots.
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.
What is the best place to arrive for your autumn NZ holiday?
The best place to arrive in NZ for an autumn holiday is Christchurch in the South Island. A rental car will easily transport you to Aoraki Mount Cook, Canterbury high country and it’s a short drive to Central Otago.
UNMISSABLE NZ AUTUMN DESTINATIONS
- Top spot is Central Otago for vibrant bronze foliage, glorious big sky vistas and local wine trails to explore.
- Wine trail enthusiasts will enjoy lingering in cellar doors with vineyards a heady shade of gold. Wine trails in Canterbury Hurunui district, Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay and Nelson.
- New Zealand’s national parks. Great Walks tracks are usually open until the end of April. Miss the crowded peak season and enjoy stunning NZ scenery.are stunning year-round.
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