Need expert help?
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Meet Joni, one of our travel experts for New Zealand.
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Born in the Southwest, raised in the Northwest, I have called the South Pacific home for over 30 years. I founded J2 Travels in the late 1990s to share our knowledge with other like minded travelers – remembering always, that the joy is in the journey. I currently live on Maui, I'm endorsed by IATA, and am a member of the Fiji, Tahiti and New Zealand Tourism Boards.
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"I want to say a big THANK YOU!! We had the most amazing time on our trip. Everything was wonderful. We absolutely loved Queenstown. We took the bus out to Milford Sound and then took a helicopter back as you suggested. It was raining the whole way out there but then the rain disappeared so we saw so many waterfalls it was breathtaking! We also went horseback riding in Glenorchy (well, I did – Pete got sick!) and that was amazing. The drive out there was beautiful and the ride itself was really fun. We tried to go skydiving but unfortunately it cancelled twice because of the winds. We also went jetboating,and spent a lot of time in the restaurants and bars in town. We then spent a few hours in Nelson and went out to Bleinhem for a day and did some wine-tasting, which was a lot of fun. When we were in Motueka we spent sometime relaxing and then did an 8 hour kayak/hike through Abel Tasman, which was truly amazing…and tiring! We spent a lot of our time in Rotorua just hanging out at the hotel and relaxing because it was just so beautiful, but we did go to hell’s gate which was really neat. In Auckland we spent a day walking around and then played golf one day. We also went to dinner at the Mudbrick restaurant in Waiheke which was great.
And on to Fiji...it was amazing! We loved Tokoriki. It was a beautiful spot and the Fijian people that worked there were so warm and friendly. The honeymoon bure that we stayed in was absolutely amazing, and we spent a lot of time just hanging out in our plunge pool. We also went snorkeling a few times, which was great. The food was also really good. As for the seaweed, there was definitely a fair bit of seaweed around and a slight smell of it, but it really wasn’t a big problem. After the first day we didn’t even think about it. I would definitely recommend Tokoriki to others, and would love to go back someday.
Thank you again for all of your help. We will definitely let our friends and family know how great you were when they head off to NZ / Fiji!
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- Megan & Pete
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"We had a fantastic time in Fiji. Qamea was particularly wonderful-rustic, authentic, beautiful, and communal. Staff members were incredibly friendly and always very accommodating. Namale was spectacular and definitely more upscale. Our bure was so elegant and we had a private deck overlooking the ocean that was phenomenal. We appreciated the remoteness and feel of Qamea over Namale, however, so we were delighted to have been there longer. I would certainly recommend Qamea to anyone traveling to that area of the world.
Thanks again for arranging this remarkable trip. It was incredibly unique and one we will remember always. We're both grateful to you.
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- Naomi & Matt
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"The Four Seasons Maui and your recommendations for the other island resorts we visited were wonderful. The Four Seasons Maui is impeccable, as we also enjoyed the Halekulani on Oahu and the Hyatt at Poipu on Kauai.
Thank you so much for your attention to detail, your availability every step of the way planning our honeymoon and assisting our guests. Your surprise gifts to us and our guests were extra special touches, and I can't rave enough about you. Even through the most stressful times I endured, you always kept your calm and made sure we were taken care of. You went above and beyond for us, going to the Four Seasons to take pictures of the construction before we got there for the wedding so we would be prepared, calling around to local stores to help me find items for gift baskets, giving us the scoop on where to shop, eat, etc.-all in such great detail as well!
You really are a true, experienced travel agent that doesn't just book trips, but travels to and knows the areas and resorts in which you book your clients and you become a trusted friend. It is with the utmost gratitude we write this in appreciation for everything you did to help make our honeymoon dreams come true for us and our guests.
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- Michelle & Scott
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"We are now home and slowly acclimating to reality. We had the most fabulous time on our holiday and want to thank you for seeing to it that every little detail was well planned, organized, and executed. We feel you really listened to our desires and planned "THE PERFECT" holiday...thank you so very much. We will definitely call you again and have recommended you to several of our friends. It is obvious that you really know both New Zealand and Fiji as I'm sure you know the other locations you book for your clients, I especially liked how you found locations that were less "touristy" and more reflective of the countries we were visiting...just as I requested. Thank you!"
- Randy and Teresa
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"Kurstan and I had the most amazing time on our trip to Maui. The wedding went off without a hitch, even though when we arrived at the house that we rented for the occasion there were hurricane strength winds. They died down in just enough time to get the flower circle in a perfect place overlooking the ocean and everything went according to plan. The ceremony was thoughtful and such a happy time for us as well as Kurstan's mom and Jack who seemed pleased with the arrangements as well.
As for the honeymoon, that was a vacation of a lifetime. I have never been as happy as I was on this trip. The hotel was lovely and the service was fantastic. Our room was more spacious than I imagined and the view was breathtaking. The hotel itself was beautiful from the lounges to the restaurants to the pool area to the beach. The beach was the best that we saw on the island.
Also, Joni, you were so helpful in getting everything arranged with us and Kurstan's mom. It was difficult for us not having ever been to Maui figuring out where to stay and what to do, but you were more than helpful in making this a trip that will be remembered throughout our lives. What a way to start a marriage!
And, thank you for the champagne you sent to our room upon our arrival. It was such a great way to start our trip.
Thank you so much for everything, and we'll definitely contact you for any help we need with travel in the future.
"
- Heather & Kurstan
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"Lisa and I had a magical experience at Qamea and everything was wonderful! You prepared us perfectly and all the details were worry free. We had a beautiful sunny day outdoor wedding in Michigan and then whisked away to paradise.
Thank you does not fully communicate our appreciation and we will be sending you referrals at every opportunity. We will be in touch soon and again, sincere thanks and warm regards!
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- Scott & Lisa
Testimonials from Joni's clients:
"Hey Joni! Thanks so much for checking in. We had an awesome time! Best vacation ever!! Would love to talk with you about everything, let me know when is good for you? We really want to go back, maybe in a few years.
"
- Traci
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Best Time of Year to Visit New Zealand
Explore > Travel Planning Articles > Best Time of Year to Visit New Zealand
Date published:
2023-05-07
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About the author, Michael Cottam
Founder of Visual Itineraries, Michael lives in Bend, Oregon. He's an avid traveler, scuba diver, photographer, and a private pilot,
and also the founder of Bright Yonder, which offers marketing tools to travel agents.
He's been to Fiji, Thailand, Vietnam, Seychelles, Kenya, France, England, New Zealand, Jamaica, Belize, Costa Rica, Turks & Caicos, British Virgin Islands, Mexico, and the major islands in French Polynesia.
He's been in Rotary for 23 years, currently on the board of the Greater Bend Rotary Club.
Here's his LinkedIn and
Pinterest.
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When's the best time of year to visit New Zealand?
The best time of year to visit New Zealand depends on what you're going for.
If you're a skier, ski season starts in early June and runs through late October.
If you're looking to enjoy hiking, camping, swimming, etc., their summer runs from December through February.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Bella Vista Napier MotelBella Vista Napier Motel 5 nights from 525 per person  Welcome! About Bella Vista Napier: -Central City Location, 4 minutes walk to Town -1000MB (1GB) Free WiFi per day -Modern Motel units at competitive rates -Close to…Art Deco buildings, Shops, Supermarkets, Eateries, Marine Parade, War Memorial Conference Centre, Hawke’s Bay MTG Museum, Municipal Theatre. The Napier RSA is just over the road! -A great central location with 18 superior units, close to shops, restaurants and the renowned Marine Parade with its majestic Norfolk pines. Tour the unique architecture of our city, or take a leisurely walk down the oceanside walkway where you will encounter the National Aquarium of New Zealand, Sunken Gardens, Ocean Spa Swimming Complex and Mini Golf to name just a few. Ideal corporate location, we are the closest motel to the town centre, public building sector, and business & conference facilities. The wider Hawke’s Bay area also offers other popular activities such as wine tours, hunting, horse trekking, bike hire, gannet safaris, jet boating and rafting on the Mohaka River. With its beautiful sunny climate and outdoor appeal, Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s most warmly regarded holiday destinations.
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New Zealand's latitude ranges from about -37 degrees to -47 degrees, roughly equivalent to the area from San Francisco to Seattle in the northern hemisphere.
However, because most of the country is relatively close to the ocean, you don't find quite as much of a temperature range in general.
The weather can change pretty quickly, though, as cold fronts or tropical cyclones move across the region.
The southern island has a climate similar to that of Oregon, whereas the northern island is more sub-tropical.
Rainfall levels are high, ranging from about 25 inches/year to 60 inches/year.
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Thick fog at Auckland Airport early one June morning.
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To compare all resorts in New Zealand, click here.
See our complete list of travel specials for New Zealand.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: Lakeland Resort TaupoLakeland Resort Taupo 5 nights from 365 per person  Lakeland Resort is situated on the beautiful shores of Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake and world renowned for its trout fishing and scenery. Set amidst 2.8 acres of landscaped grounds, complete with 64 well equipped studio units, with 42 plasma flat screen TV, tennis court, outdoor seasonal swimming pool, 2 private indoor spa pools, guest laundry facilities, ample off-street parking, 2 conference rooms and the Lakeland Bar and Brasserie. Lakeland Resort offers relaxing and comfortable accommodation, superb conference and function facilities with The Lakeland Bar & Brasserie serving divine cuisine.
Typical airfares from LAX
Airfares vary by season, but also day of week, and are definitely affected by holidays.
The chart above shows the typical minimum and maximum fares for a economy class ticket from Los Angeles (LAX) to Auckland, NZ (AKL), by month.
TRAVEL SPECIAL: President Hotel AucklandPresident Hotel Auckland 5 nights from 380 per person  Offering compact rooms and free WiFi, the 3-star President Hotel Auckland is 1250 meters from K Road and within walking distance to Western Park. The venue dates back to 1975. 24-hour front desk, housekeeping service and porter service as well as storage for belongings, a car park and a tour desk are on hand. It is situated in the centre of Auckland, next to Tour Shop. It is also just a 10 minutes' drive from Eden Garden. The accommodation's central location a short stroll from a shopping street, a supermarket and grocery shops is favorable for shopping lovers. Offering views of the landscape, the guestrooms feature climate control, cable television and a lounge area. Each room includes an en suite bathroom with amenities, such as a roll in shower, a hairdryer and dressing gowns. Learn more about President Hotel AucklandDaily housekeeping Restaurants Breakfast available Fitness centre Self parking 24-hour room service Business centre Airport shuttle 24-hour front desk Coffee/tea in a common area Air conditioning Car hire on-site
Rainbow over Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown harbor.
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Most of New Zealand averages over 2000 hours of sunshine a year.
This, plus the fact that there's very little air pollution, means that the
UV rays are quite strong in the summer months.
Seasons in New Zealand
| Spring |
September to November |
| Summer |
December to February |
| Fall |
March to May |
| Winter |
July to August |
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TRAVEL SPECIAL: Chateau on the ParkChateau on the Park 5 nights from 725 per person  A unique escape nestled in 5 acres of beautiful, tranquil gardens, the Chateau on the Park offers hotel accommodation in Christchurch South Island New Zealand that seems a world away from the stresses of city life, just minutes away is the vibrant city of Christchurch. Learn more about Chateau on the ParkHair Dryer Television Telephone Heating In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Ensuite Bathroom with Separate Shower Iron and Ironing board Refrigerator Air Conditioning
Ski Season in New Zealand
Ski season in New Zealand starts in early June and runs through late October.
The best-known ski areas are near Queenstown and the incredible Remarkables mountains and Lake Wanaka.
This area is noted for spectacular scenery, a wide variety of terrain and types of trails, and popular resorts.
On the North Island, there's the Whakapapa and Turoa ski areas, perched on the active volcano of Mt Ruapehu.
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Helicopter against the backdrop of the Remarkables, near Queenstown.
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TRAVEL SPECIAL: Bayview Wairakei Resort Hotel TaupoBayview Wairakei Resort Hotel Taupo 5 nights from 435 per person  Wairakei Resort Taupo located only 5 minutes north of Taupo town centre, offers superb hotel accommodation in Taupo, excellent indoor & outdoor leisure facilities and dining as well as a purpose built Taupo conference venue, all located in a stunning historic setting, close to Taupo's many attractions. Our spacious Taupo hotel is the place for all occasions; whether it is business or leisure, you will find everything you need right here. Since the late 1800's, people have come from all over the world to experience the beauty of Lake Taupo and to stay at the wonderful Wairakei Resort. For over a hundred years our guests have enjoyed Wairakei Resort's style, comfort, beautiful scenery and the finest cuisine. Today the Wairakei Resort Hotel in Taupo is the largest international 4-star resort in the central North Island but the hotel still enjoys a wonderful historic atmosphere.
Looking down on Queenstown from the top of the Skyline gondola.
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New Zealand Wine-Tasting
The country has become very well-known for its wines, especially its sauvignon blancs
and pinot noirs.
Wine tastings are available in tourist areas throughout the year.
Harvest time for the vineyards typically starts in February, with some late-harvest types being picked as late as June in the Otago area.
Queenstown Wine Trail offers sight-seeing and wine-tasting year-round, visiting many of the premier vineyards and wineries in the Otago/Queenstown region.
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Hunting and Hiking in New Zealand
Really, the weather extremes are not so extreme--it's a pleasant place to hike and explore the outdoors year-round.
Hunting is popular, especially for the incredible red stag--one
of 7 types of deer introduced to New Zealand about 150 years ago by European settlers (who failed to consider the fact that New Zealand has no predators other than a small hawk).
Deer hunting season is officially from February through September, however, the rut (when the biggest stags are available) is during the rut, from late March through late April.
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Stalking red stag at Glen Dene Station, on the shores of Lake Hawea, South Island.
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TRAVEL SPECIAL: Sudima Hotel Lake RotoruaSudima Hotel Lake Rotorua 5 nights from 605 per person  Sudima Lake Rotorua is the perfect destination for your Rotorua holiday! We offer comfort, charm and convenience in an ideal location. Set on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotorua, Sudima Lake Rotorua is the largest hotel in Rotorua, and a great choice for business or pleasure. Adjacent to the world famous Polynesian Spa, Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens, the hotel is a short stroll from Rotorua's vibrant city centre, Convention Centre and the Energy Events Centre. Recently refurbished, the Lakes Restaurant & Mallards Bar provide the perfect dining experience. Lakes Restaurant will delight you with its first-class service and a fresh approach to top-quality dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our lavish buffet breakfast is just the right way to start an action-packed day in Rotorua. Open daily, Mallards Bar offers the ideal venue for a quiet drink while taking in the magnificent view over Lake Rotorua. Alternatively enjoy a round of pool while catching all the sports action on our big-screen TV. In-room dining is also available for guests 24-hours a day. We are pleased to offer our guests a range of facilities for your enjoyment. Enjoy a swim in the heated swimming pool, or relax in one of our three private spas, or. Or why not book in for some relaxing massage therapy. To ensure you stay connected, we have high-speed broadband internet throughout the hotel, including guest rooms and common areas. Our restaurant and bar can cater for all your dining needs and room service is available 24 hours a day. You can choose to be entertained with a concert and hangi feast designed to give you a taste of our local Maori culture. Te Roopa Manaia, an award-winning Maori cultural group, put on a nightly concert and hangi feast for our guests. You'll even have the opportunity to perform Maori dances and songs with the group if you choose! Watch in awe as two warriors perform a formal Powhiri (welcome), be thrilled by the Haka, see the skillful Poi dancers, enjoy traditional and contemporary Maori songs and hear the rich tapestry of Maori legends in this two hour long event. The traditional Maori entertainment is complimented by a traditional hangi feast, all cooked underground using geothermal steam. There is also a mouth-watering buffet selection of Eastern and Western cuisine as well as divine desserts, including the very Kiwi pavlova. Rotorua is undoubtedly one of New Zealand's premier tourism destinations. Here you can witness some of nature's most powerful forces, experience the richness of Maori culture and be thrilled by the vast array of adventure activities and attractions on offer. All activities can be arranged through the hotel, so make sure you're staying close to all the action at Sudima Lake Rotorua Hotel. Learn more about Sudima Hotel Lake RotoruaHair Dryer Television Telephone Safety Deposit Box (In Room) Heating In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Iron and Ironing board Pay-Per-View Movies Refrigerator Minibar Air Conditioning
How we work with you to plan the perfect trip:
- We'll talk with you to find out what you're looking for, what you like/don't like, etc.
- We'll use our first-hand knowledge of the destination to pick out a handful of resorts we think you'd like
- We'll create a custom mini website for you, with photos, videos, maps, etc. of the resorts we are recommending
- We'll follow up with you to help you make your decision
- We'll go to work with our suppliers to get you the best deal available on what you've decided on.
Map of Hotels and Resorts in New Zealand
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