Good Time to Visit

Weather

New Zealand has highly variable weather; temperate in the south and almost subtropical in the north and on the east coast. The North has mild winters and warm, humid summers, with temperatures in Auckland averaging 16-23°C in January and 8-13°C in July. Rainfall in Auckland ranges from 8 cm in December to 14.5 cm in July. The South is generally cooler than the North, with snow in the mountains. The eastern areas often experience drought conditions in summer; the West, particularly in the South Island, has more rain. More weather information can be found in Climate in New Zealand.

Visitors are advised to bring lightweight cottons and linens when travelling to the North Island, or to the South Island in the summer. During the winter, medium-weights will be needed in the South Island. Waterproofs are recommended at any time of the year, especially if visiting the South Island's rainforest areas.

Festivals

Waitangi Day commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on 6 February 1840, and is celebrated with various services and functions around the country, as well as by New Zealanders across the world. ANZAC Day on 25 April remembers the actions of New Zealand troops in major wars, with a particular focus on the Gallipoli campaign of World War I. Public holidays are also held for Christmas, New Year, Easter and the Queen's birthday, in June.

Laugh till your sides split at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival, held in Auckland and Wellington in May, or feast on some cinematic treats during the International Film Festival, in Wellington and other big cities each July.

Public Holidays

The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in New Zealand: