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.
"
- 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: Hulbert HouseHulbert House 5 nights from 3,095 per person  Hulbert House is a beautifully restored Victorian villa dating back to 1888. Steeped in authentic history, we bring you a distinctive combination of historic elegance and contemporary service. Hulbert House offers a luxury, boutique accommodation experience suitable for all discerning international and domestic travellers. Situated just a short walk from Queenstown’s vibrant central city, Hulbert House is imbued with a sense of serenity. Our six uniquely designed suites offer stunning views overlooking Lake Wakatipu or the Skyline Hill. Award winning designer Neil McLachlan has worked his magic with the transformation of the building and grounds. Your stay at Hulbert House includes a complimentary breakfast, refreshments during the day and pre-dinner drinks and canapes before you stroll into town to one of the many restaurants and bars. Also included is free wi-fi and carparking with direct street access on three sides. Your sleep experience is enhanced by plush bedding and the lightest of duvets covered with beautiful white damask. Our team are on hand to offer a complete and personal concierge service. We would be delighted to help you confirm your onward travel arrangements, book one of the many exhilarating activities on offer in the Queenstown area, or secure your own private oasis at an award-winning spa. As part of our commitment to care for our cherished planet we have a worm farm, we compost our organic waste material and we have a kitchen garden that provides our chefs with fresh and flavoursome food all year round. Hulbert House offers a unique style of boutique accommodation at a level unmatched in the region. We look forward to welcoming you to this very special place. Learn more about Hulbert HouseDaily housekeeping Near the beach Bar/lounge Babysitting Terrace 24-hour front desk Coffee/tea in a common area Air conditioning Garden Library Front-desk safe Snack bar/deli
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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: Ibis WellingtonIbis Wellington 5 nights from 640 per person  Ibis Wellington offers 200 recently refurbished rooms with modern technology, 26" LCD TVs and sits just minutes from the bustle of Lambton Quay, Parliament, the TSB Arena, Westpac Stadium and the magnificent waterfront walk to Te Papa. Ibis Wellington's environmental commitment has been recognised with international ISO 14001 certification. For in-hotel relaxation you have the stylish Vivant! Restaurant and Bar. Parking is available at the hotel and must be booked prior to arrival.
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: Wanaka Springs LodgeWanaka Springs Lodge 5 nights from 730 per person  Star Plus boutique lodge in New Zealand with relaxed Kiwi charm. Enjoy the warmest welcome, luxury bed and breakfast accommodation and separate guest facilities including a cosy lounge and outdoors spa pool. Hosted by fifth generation New Zealanders Lyn and Murray Finn, Wanaka Springs Lodge celebrates New Zealand culture and its quirks with its décor and food. Stay at Wanaka Springs Lodge for a delicious taste of New Zealand, starting with complimentary aperitifs every evening. During these social occasions, we share typical Kiwi foods accompanied by regional wines and beers. In the morning, our generous cooked and continental breakfasts feature homemade muesli, handmade award winning sausages, Manuka cured bacon, local free range eggs and fifty different types of New Zealand honey to choose from. Also enjoy freshly baked hokey pokey biscuits, pikelets or other Kiwi delights with your afternoon coffee or tea. The most centrally located luxury lodge accommodation in Wanaka In town and yet peacefully secluded in a beautiful garden setting, Wanaka Springs Lodge takes its name from the natural springs that run through the property. A stone's throw from Wanaka's lake shores, shops and restaurants and the Wanaka golf course, the lodge benefits from wonderful mountain and lake views. Spectacular Lake Wanaka is an ideal base for exploring the South Island gems of Queenstown, Milford Sound, Mt Cook and our World Heritage Mt Aspiring National Park area. We offer unbiased advice and assistance with your excursions and activity bookings, so you make the most of your South Island holiday. In winter, Wanaka Springs Lodge provides all the services of a luxury bed and breakfast ski lodge. See our ski holiday packages here. Wanaka Springs Lodge also offers accommodation deals for key events in the Wanaka calendar, including Warbirds over Wanaka, The Festival of Colour and Challenge Wanaka Triathlon. Learn more about Wanaka Springs LodgeHousekeeping (on request) Ski storage Spa tub Limo/town car service Terrace Garden Library Lobby fireplace Communal living room Microwave in a common area Refrigerator in a common area Self-serve laundry
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: Aotearoa LodgeAotearoa Lodge 5 nights from 480 per person  Aotearoa Lodge & Tours is situated on two and a half acres of tranquil gardens and within a five minute stroll to beautiful Buffalo Beach. A perfect base to explore the whole of the Coromandel Peninsula being close to Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, New Chums Beach and the magnificent Coromandel bush.
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: Holiday Inn Hotel Auckland AirportHoliday Inn Hotel Auckland Airport 5 nights from 585 per person  Enjoy a peaceful tropical setting at Holiday Inn Auckland Airport, 4km from Auckland Airport. You'll pass native New Zealand trees as you arrive in Holiday Inn Auckland Airport's 4 hectares of lush gardens, 5 minutes from Auckland Airport by hotel shuttle. Friendly staff greet you in our bright hotel Lobby, which is decorated with traditional M¿ori carvings. Guest room balconies and courtyards overlook our landscaped pool area or gardens. Your Guest room at Holiday Inn Auckland Airport is made for business with an ergonomic chair, work desk and high-speed Internet. Link up to video-conferencing in our 400-person ballroom and host events in our 10 meeting rooms with garden views. You can visit clients at Air New Zealand and Downer EDI, both within 2km of the hotel, and make use of the PCs in our 24-hour Business Centre. Work out in our air-conditioned Fitness Centre before cooling off in the sparkling courtyard pool. Adrenaline-fuelled rollercoasters and log flumes at Rainbow's End theme park are 15km from the hotel, while wine-tasting at the rambling Villa Maria Estate is 2km away. Soothing halo lights add a relaxing ambiance to Holiday Inn Auckland Airport's poolside Vapor Restaurant, where you can dine on lamb and seafood dishes. Pull up a bar stool for drinks and pizza in the atmospheric Halo Bar.
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: Grand Mercure Oakridge ResortGrand Mercure Oakridge Resort 5 nights from 640 per person  If you're looking for relaxation, a climate encompassing magnificent snow in winter, glorious sun during summer and with world-class outdoor pursuits, all surrounded by spectacular scenery, then set your sights on Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort in beautiful Wanaka. Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka is a 4 star hotel set in a stunning mountain landscape offering majestic views overlooking the Southern Alps. The resort features heated rock pools, seven hot tubs, gymnasium, sauna, the Sanctuary Day Spa and Restaurant to provide guests with a unique and relaxing experience.
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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