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: 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.
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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: Rydges AucklandRydges Auckland 5 nights from 595 per person  Rydges Auckland, the newest and freshest Auckland hotel, is primed to set a new standard in style, service and contemporary elegance with a well needed breath of fresh air. The city's latest hotel mixes elements of London sophistication, Sydney cool, New York style combined with the warmth of world class Kiwi hospitality. Worthy of the most discerning traveler, Rydges Auckland is the city's best kept secret…… until now. Offering Auckland accommodation in close proximity to the centre of the city makes it ideal for both business and leisure. Take a short stroll to the Viaduct Harbour, Auckland's stunning waterfront with an array of restaurants and bars. Auckland has an abundance of shopping to satisfy the shopping addict's in all of us right on our doorstep. High Street and the Chancery are home to original fashion designers, artists, jewelers and café owners converging on this narrow, meandering street transforming it into one of the central city's best shopping attractions. If you are here to soak up a world class concert at Vector Arena, look no further for a stylish hotel to feel like a star. Standing proudly above the city on Hobson Street, Rydges Auckland Hotel presents the new Hobson Tower, complete with 88 stunning guest rooms to form a 267-room urban oasis in the heart of Auckland. The newly revitalized rooms are designed to exude warmth and sublime comfort. Each accommodation includes a specialized workstation, 32 inch LCD television, air conditioning and up to the minute broadband and Wi-Fi access for the internet lovers in all of us. All rooms enjoy views of the inner city, many looking over the Sky Tower, while the Harbour View rooms enjoy sweeping views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the picturesque Waitemata Harbour. Auckland is New Zealand's gateway city and we couldn't be better placed in welcoming you to the land of the long white cloud. Our friendly and attentive team are on hand to assist you in exploring Auckland and beyond. We are dedicated to ensure your expectations are exceeded with passion in a fresh and friendly contemporary hotel environment. Learn more about Rydges AucklandDaily housekeeping Restaurant and bar/lounge Breakfast available 24-hour fitness center Valet parking Self parking 24-hour room service Coffee shop/cafe In-room childcare 24-hour business center Conference center Business center
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: 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
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 Bluewater ResortPeppers Bluewater Resort 5 nights from 133 per person  Peppers Bluewater Resort, Lake Tekapo Set near the shores of Lake Tekapo and surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of the Southern Alps, Peppers Bluewater Resort is a glimmering spectacle on New Zealand's South Island. The architectural design of Peppers Bluewater Resort is a reflection of the surrounding Mackenzie Basin landscape and offers the perfect destination for a relaxing escape or a retreat after a hectic day of exploration. Peppers Bluewater Resort is a scenic two and a half hour drive from both Christchurch and Queenstown on State Highway 8. The accommodation ranges from hotel rooms to one, two and three bedroom villas exuding a tranquil atmosphere influenced be a colour scheme inspired by the lake's characteristic turquoise-blue hues and surrounding earthy tones. Simply unwind and breathe in the serene atmosphere of Peppers Bluewater Resort. Relax amongst our cosy sofa at the Rakinui Lounge while enjoying a warming drink or light snack. For breakfast and dinner Rakinui Restaurant serves a diverse selection of international standard cuisine and local delights accompanied with a breathtaking view across Lake Tekapo. Peppers Bluewater Resort is set within the burgeoning Mount Cook and Mackenzie District making it the perfect base from which to explore the natural wonders of the region. Lake Tekapo offers numerous activities including kayaking, horse riding and trout fishing, or the nearby ski fields offer all the snow activities you crave. Day trips to the hot springs, a hit of minigolf and star gazing at Mount John are highly recommended. Learn more about Peppers Bluewater Resort142 smoke-free apartments Daily housekeeping Restaurant and bar/lounge Breakfast available Room service Business center UNESCO Sustainable Property 24-hour front desk Air conditioning Garden Front-desk safe Self-serve laundry
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: Citylife AucklandCitylife Auckland 5 nights from 670 per person  CityLife Auckland is a stylish and sophisticated Auckland hotel set in the heart of Queen Street, Auckland's business, shopping and entertainment heart. This ensures CityLife Auckland hotel offers the perfect Auckland accommodation for travellers who want to be just yards from the action. The hotel's fully refurbished Auckland accommodation includes Superior Rooms, one or two bedroom suites, Directors Suites and a rooftop Penthouse Suite. The best of space, comfort and facilities are assured, with modern entertainment systems including flatscreen televisions, DVD players and SKY TV. After a day's sightseeing guests may unwind in the indoor heated swimming pool and gymnasium, then savour award-winning dining in Zest Restaurant or pre-dinner beverages in the relaxed lounge-style Zest Bar. Valet car parking is available at an additional cost and a 24-hour concierge and room service available to cater for every requirement. The design of the CityLife Auckland hotel apartments / suites is a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. With plenty of space and your choice of one, two or three-bedroom Auckland city apartment options, you will find a suite to suit your needs and taste. Zest is an established Auckland city restaurant and bar positioned above the heart of Auckland's Queen Street retail precinct. Here diners can choose to savour a full meal, or simply sip a quiet aperitif after the working day.
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: Novotel Queenstown LakesideNovotel Queenstown Lakeside 5 nights from 900 per person  Centrally located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, treat your self to 4-star tranquility at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside. Start your day fresh with a breath of mountain air on your balcony and a delicious buffet breakfast in the airy restaurant. Your welcoming room awaits you to soak up Queenstown's natural beauty at the end of a great day at Novotel. Learn more about Novotel Queenstown LakesideHair Dryer Television Telephone Safety Deposit Box (In Room) Heating In-room Internet Access Ipod Docking Station Ensuite Bathroom Microwave Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Ensuite Bathroom with Separate Shower Iron and Ironing board Pay-Per-View Movies Refrigerator Minibar Air Conditioning Patio/Balcony Washer/Dryer
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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