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.
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- 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.
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- 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: Chateau MarlboroughChateau Marlborough 5 nights from 485 per person 
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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: Eichardt's Private HotelEichardt's Private Hotel 5 nights from 5,950 per person 
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: Ibis ChristchurchIbis Christchurch 5 nights from 685 per person  Superbly situated in the heart of this historic garden city, Ibis Christchurch is behind Cathedral Square, one of the most recognized and visited tourist attractions in picturesque Christchurch. Set amidst the Central Business District and surrounded by a myriad of art galleries, museums, cafes, restaurants and the most popular tourist activities in Christchurch. The Ibis features 155 contemporary rooms, a' la carte restaurant, bar and meeting room.
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: Heritage AucklandHeritage Auckland 5 nights from 1,195 per person  With its former life as Auckland's art deco department store, Farmers, and grand sweeping views of the magnificent Waitemata Harbour, Heritage Auckland offers a unique accommodation experience and an ideal base from which to enjoy the City of Sail Learn more about Heritage AucklandHair Dryer Television DVD Player Telephone Safety Deposit Box (In Room) Full Kitchen Heating In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Kitchenette Microwave Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Iron and Ironing board Pay-Per-View Movies Refrigerator Minibar Air Conditioning Patio/Balcony Washer/Dryer
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: Matakauri LodgeMatakauri Lodge 5 nights from 6,730 per person  Spectacularly situated on Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge offers stunning views from every angle of the Remarkable mountain ranges. Just seven minutes from Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge is an alpine lakeside retreat nestled in one of the world's most serenely beautiful landscapes. The Lodge and adjoining suites, originally constructed in 2000 with a contemporary New Zealand design, reopened in August 2010 after undergoing extensive refurbishment by acclaimed New Zealand Interior Designer, Virginia Fisher. The Main Lodge consists of spacious lounge, dining and living areas, all with lake views. The Lodge also offers a range of indoor and outdoor dining options for our guests, including superb private dining options. An elegant meeting space with a business centre offering abundant natural light and views of the mountain ranges beyond. The Lodge offers accommodation in twelve luxurious guest rooms and suites, with eight outlying cottages and four suites located in the main lodge. Each suite offers a private porch, bedroom with sitting area and open fireplace, walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. The suites are nestled in a native forest overlooking the lake and the mountain panorama. The Owner's Cottage, features four suites in a freestanding residence, private Jacuzzi, lounge, kitchen and grand courtyard, ideal for families, couples or friends travelling together, and special celebrations. As a Relais & Chateaux property, Matakauri Lodge offers a unique dining experience in a luxurious setting. Head Chef Jonathan Roger's modern New Zealand cuisine is focused on showcasing local seasonal produce with clean, fresh flavors in an a la carte menu that changes daily. The Spa and Fitness Centre is located on the edge of a pine forest, with uninterrupted views to Lake Wakatipu and towering Cecil Peak. The Spa offers a private experience in an unrivalled natural environment and consists of two treatment rooms, each with shower, changing room and private deck. Choose from a variety of treatments including season specific and signature treatments, as well as different styles of massages, facials and body treatments personalized to meet your specific requirements. We also have a sauna available which is located within our Spa and Fitness Centre. The Fitness Centre consists of a complete spectrum of exercise equipment and free weights. Yoga, Pilates and Personal Training are available by appointment. The luxurious outdoor infinity pool is situated in the Spa and Fitness Centre complex. Relax by the pool or in the jacuzzi with spectacular views of the lake and mountainside. Central Queenstown is a bustling hive of bars, restaurants and shops, making it a vibrant town center to entertain every visitor. Originally a mining town home to gold rushers, Queenstown has blossomed into the home of adventure sports and the ultimate base camp for visitors to our stunning, pristine natural playground. In town be sure to visit the waterfront, walk past to the Queenstown Gardens or enjoy a ride up Bob's Peak on the gondola to ride the luge or simply have a coffee and enjoy the view. Learn more about Matakauri LodgeDaily housekeeping Full-service spa Outdoor pool Fitness center Sauna Spa tub Bar/lounge Room service Business center Terrace Air conditioning Garden
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: Peppers Clearwater Resort ChristchurchPeppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch 5 nights from 590 per person  Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch is a stunning waterfront resort set within beautiful grounds and surrounded by clear shimmering lakes and water ways from which the resort gets its name. Located just a 15 minute drive from the city centre and seven minutes from Christchurch airport, this elegant hotel's accommodation includes a variety of modern rooms, suites and villas welcoming privacy, relaxation and refined entertaining. Built with a contemporary boathouse design, all apartments feature the premium facilities and services you expect from a Peppers Resort. Accommodation offers marvellous lake or fairway views while our spacious two bedroom apartment boast's a cosy fireplace designed to warm the soul. Peppers Clearwater Resort Christchurch is the perfect place to relax unwind and explore, offering something for everyone. In addition to being an escape destination, Peppers Clearwater Resort is a golfing destination with the 18 hole championship golf course which is home to the New Zealand Golf Open. Other pleasant pastimes you'll enjoy include tennis, cycling or simply strolling along the extensive walking trails. In the evening treat yourself to a meal at the award-winning Lakes Restaurant at Peppers Clearwater Resort, offering relaxed yet elegant dining with brilliant lake and fairway views. The impressive menu offers gourmet cuisine and an extensive wine list for you to enjoy. Christchurch, known as the 'Garden City', offers a long list of activities that range from skiing and snowboarding to whale watching, dolphin swimming, kayaking and horse trekking. At a slower pace you can simply relax and enjoy a magical balloon flight over the city or explore some of the local markets in surrounding areas.
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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