New Zealand’s snowy mountains come alive in winter, and the crisp days are perfect for the ultimate winter holiday.
New Zealand winters are from June–August, with temperatures ranging from cool to cold. Parts of the South Island often fall below zero degress celsius and snow is common. Temperatures in the North Island are milder and rain is more common than snow.
Average winter temperatures by region:
City Min Max
Auckland 8°C (46°F) 16°C (61°F)
Wellington 7°C (45°F) 12°C (54°F)
Queenstown 0°C (32°F) 8°C (46°F)
Invercargill 1°C (34°F) 10°C (50°F)
Visit MetService(opens in new window) for weather forecasts for locations across New Zealand.
Thermal gear, waterproofs, and sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended because it can get wet, windy, and icy. When spending extended periods outdoors, wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect you against New Zealand's high UV levels.
We suggest bringing:
New Zealand is a safe place to travel, but winter can bring some additional challenges. Here’s all you need to know about how to stay safe. Remember to pack chains for your vehicle if driving in the snowy south in peak season.
