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 22 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: Pepper on the PointPepper on the Point 5 nights from 795 per person  Surrounded by the sparkling waters of Lake Rotorua, Peppers on the Point is an intimate luxury retreat featuring spectacular views to the historic Mokoia Island. This historic property was a family home right until 2004 and is perfect for a serene and tranquil escape. This stunning retreat offers the perfect base for experiencing New Zealand's rich culture or you can simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of this stunning location from the comfort of our inviting entertainment rooms with open fireplaces. Just five minutes from the heart of Rotorua City, Peppers on the Point is located on Kawaha Point Road and comprises of an exquisitely furnished converted 1930s mansion. Accommodation within the retreat includes nine spacious, luxuriously furnished suites with most featuring stunning lake views. There is also two private lake cottage suites along with the owners residence - The Lake Villa and a One Bedroom Lake Villa Apartment, both available on application. Without leaving the retreats surrounds you can indulge in a heavenly massage at our onsite spa, try fly fishing from our private beach, enjoy water sports and tennis or even spend your day boating. Peppers on the Point's dining room is also renowned for serving fabulous New Zealand cuisine accompanied by the finest New Zealand and international wines, it is an experience not to be missed. Peppers on the Point, Rotoura is the heartland of New Zealand's Maori culture and is set amidst a landscape of erupting geysers, hot thermal springs and bubbling mud pools. With so many sights to see and cultural offerings within easy reach, we will have you immersed in relaxation upon your return. Learn more about Pepper on the PointDaily housekeeping Private beach Restaurants and bar/lounge Breakfast available Outdoor tennis court Fitness centre Room service Spa services Massage/treatment rooms In-room childcare UNESCO Sustainable Property Terrace
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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: Millenium Hotel QueenstownMillenium Hotel Queenstown 5 nights from 600 per person  Millennium Hotel Queenstown is located on Frankton Road, the main road into Queenstown. Just 6 kilometers from the airport and only minutes away from the Queenstown central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting and jet boating. Coronet Peak ski area is only 20 minutes away; Remarkables ski area is 25 kilometersaway and Cardrona ski field is 65 km to the north. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4 Star Plus and Enviro-Silver Qualmark Rated Hotel, with 220 guest rooms, meetings facilities, business centre, gym, sauna, spa, bar and restaurant Learn more about Millenium Hotel QueenstownDaily housekeeping Near the beach Restaurant and bar/lounge Breakfast available Ski storage Fitness center Self parking 24-hour room service Business center 8 meeting rooms 24-hour front desk Garden
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.
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: Peppers Parehua MartinboroughPeppers Parehua Martinborough 5 nights from 880 per person  Just over an hour by road from Wellington is the world famous wine-growing region of Wairarapa with vineyards, pastoral farms, and rolling green hills on a rugged New Zealand coast. On its outskirts lies Peppers Parehua Martinborough – a meticulous sprawling Parehua country estate, with large sweeping gardens, luxury Martinborough accommodation and panoramic views. A complete destination in its own right, Peppers Parehua Martinborough takes you on a journey where the region's best food and wine takes centre stage and your every wish and desire is catered to. After all, your Peppers experience is truly all about you. Peppers Parehua offers luxurious accommodation in the beautifully scenic district of Martinborough, the Cottages and Villas are character filled with charming touches. The decor is contemporary with neutral tones and splashes of colours that blend in with the surrounding landscape. All rooms have a delightful open fireplace giving a warm and cosy ambiance. Choose from our Winemakers Cottages, Secluded Cottages, Garden Cottages, Lakeside Cottages, and Woodland Villas all featuring New Zealand art and providing the perfect retreat for romance, celebrations or just a little time out for yourself. Let food and wine take centre stage. Let Pavilion Restaurant Martinborough at Peppers Parehua introduce you to the best of the region. World-class food and wine have long been synonymous with Peppers. It's just something they have known would always appeal to those that appreciate the finer things in life. Relax and indulge in the retreat's onsite Pavilion Restaurant intimate dining room and take pleasure in a deliciously intriguing menu overlooking the meticulous gardens of the country estate, whether you choose from a full a la carte service or a defined six-course degustation menu. Whether you prefer wine or beer to complement your meal, let the team cater to your every whim. Peppers Parehua Martinborough features the Pavilion – a perfect space to play board games, read and relax whilst looking out on the surrounding lawns and trees. The Pavilion also has a restaurant and open-air bar where guests can enjoy pre-dinner drinks. Bicycles are also available for hire for those who wish to venture further through the village and Martinborough vineyard tours. There are just so many things to do in Martinborough, you'll be spoilt for choice each day. Take time out to relax at Spa Boutique Parehua, be pampered with luxurious treatments by our highly qualified therapists and experience complete relaxation onsite at our beautiful spa at Peppers Parehua Martinborough. Sitting in the midst of internationally acclaimed vineyards, Peppers Parehua gives you the freedom to choose your own magical setting for your Wairarapa wedding. Whether you wish to exchange vows by the willow-fringed lake or have an indoor winter wedding by the roaring fireplace, Peppers Parehua promises a heart-stirring Martinborough wedding during every season. Martinborough on New Zealand's North Island is one of the world's greatest wine growing regions, with over 40 wineries and many more vineyards growing grapes. Renowned for its pinot noir, Martinborough wineries have also received international awards for many of their other varieties. Located in the Wairarapa region and just over 75 minutes east of Wellington, the village of Martinborough is a unique wine village with 30 wineries within walking distance, a charming town square, numerous restaurants, cafes, galleries and heritage architecture. The close proximity of the region's attractions allow you to create your own Martinborough wine touring experience. The history of winemaking in Martinborough goes back to 1978 when the first vineyard was planted but it wasn't until 1986 when Larry McKenna arrived from Delegatas in Auckland to take charge of the winemaking at Martinborough Vineyard that national and international accolades and recognition were achieved. Many of the wineries are open for tastings and sales throughout the year and several also have restaurant or cafe facilities serving exquisite food. If time does not allow for travelling to all the wineries, in the centre of town the Martinborough Wine Centre offers a wide range of the region's wines for you to sample all under one roof. Learn more about Peppers Parehua Martinborough28 smoke-free apartments Daily housekeeping Restaurant and bar/lounge Outdoor pool Outdoor tennis court Business center UNESCO Sustainable Property Terrace Air conditioning Garden Snack bar/deli Laundry service
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: The LanghamThe Langham 5 nights from 860 per person  The Langham Hotel Auckland embodies the enchanting hospitality and timeless elegance of the original Langham grand hotel. Distinguished among Auckland hotels, the five-star Langham Hotel Auckland is a haven of tranquility in the heart of this vibrant city. The seasoned traveler will appreciate The Langham Auckland Hotel for both its classic charm and innovative amenities. When you visit New Zealand, a wonderland of refined indulgence awaits you at our luxury Auckland hotel. Learn more about The LanghamDaily housekeeping Restaurant and bar/lounge Full-service spa Outdoor pool Rooftop terrace Breakfast available Health club Sauna Steam room Free use of bicycles Valet parking Spa tub
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: Hotel Ibis RotoruaHotel Ibis Rotorua 5 nights from 515 per person  Ibis Rotorua is located on the shores of Lake Rotorua. The hotel features 145 rooms, a restaurant, bar and Internet access. The city centre is only a short walk away, offering easy access to the convention centre, Energy Event Centre, cafes and restaurants. Conference rooms and other facilities at the neighbouring Novotel Rotorua Lakeside are also available to guests. Learn more about Hotel Ibis RotoruaTelevision In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Ensuite Bathroom with Separate Shower Iron and Ironing board Mosquito nets Pay-Per-View Movies 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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