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 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: 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.
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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: Millennium Hotel RotoruaMillennium Hotel Rotorua 5 nights from 865 per person  Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a brief stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination. From here, experience Rotorua’s rich history, explore the thermal hot pools or the native bush, and even squeeze in a round of golf at one of Rotorua’s international golf courses. Our 227 rooms and suites feature residential-style decor with views of Lake Rotorua or the native garden. We also have accessible rooms for guests with special requirements. 7 meetings and event spaces are available and ideal for up to 400 people. Perhaps the most unique feature here is its heating, provided by harnessing the hotel's natural geothermal resource. Take a dip in our heated pool or relax under the expert hands of our Spa therapists. There's free off-street parking, child-friendly facilities including a toddler pool, and a Business Centre that offers full secretarial services. Millennium Rotorua is a Qualmark 4 Star Plus rated hotel with an Enviro-Silver status for its sustainability practices. The hotel is also a member of the Rotorua Sustainable Tourism Charter. Learn more about Millennium Hotel RotoruaHair Dryer Television Telephone Safety Deposit Box (In Room) Heating In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Iron and Ironing board Refrigerator Minibar Air Conditioning Patio/Balcony
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: Kingsgate Hotel Te AnauKingsgate Hotel Te Anau 5 nights from 410 per person  A luxury hotel with breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau Set amidst beautiful nature, Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau overlooks majestic mountains and lakes, and lets you discover the region’s breathtaking natural wonders. From our hotel, you can explore the cliffs and waterfalls, cruise deep within the Fiordland into Milford Sound, traverse across the mysterious Manapouri Lake, or get lost in the magical Glowworm Caves. Featuring 94 modern guest rooms, with double beds and adjoining rooms for families, a stay at our hotel in Te Anau lets you discover the pristine beauty of this New Zealand region and so much more. Dine in Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen overlooking mountain-lake views, perfect for a hearty breakfast at sunrise or dinner at sundown. Stay and feel at home with our distinctive hospitality. Learn more about Kingsgate Hotel Te AnauDaily housekeeping Breakfast available Garden Reception fireplace Front desk safe Self-serve laundry Conference space Meeting room Luggage storage Limited hour front desk Tour/ticket assistance Porter/bellhop
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: Hilton Lake TaupoHilton Lake Taupo 5 nights from 780 per person  HOTEL DETAILS Relax in Hilton Lake Taupo guest rooms where considered amenities such as 32-inch LCD TV and walk-in showers furnish a touch of luxury. Upgrade to a spacious Guest Room Plus to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Taupo. Absorb history in the elegant marble bathrooms of Deluxe Rooms, sited in the Heritage wing, originally built in 1889. Fully self-contained apartments are ideal for groups or longer stays. In a choice of one or three bedrooms, all have fully equipped kitchen and private terraces. Dine in famous style at Bistro Lago - part of celebrity chef Gareth Stewart's Nourish group. Gareth’s Executive menu places emphasis on the finest of international produce. Savor signature dishes like Alaskan Crab and Prawn, and relax with a cocktail at the open fireplaces. Enjoy any mealtime al fresco on open air balconies. Maintain any workout routine at Hilton Lake Taupo. Get to work on the cardio machines in our fitness room and challenge friends on the tennis courts. Warm down in the sauna, steam room and thermally heated spa pool. Hold conferences and celebrations in the spectacular setting of Lake Taupo. Hilton Lake Taupo has seen many brides have the most special of days in our 250 capacity Cellar Ballroom. Rent AV from the business center to make presentations easy and use videoconferencing to connect with colleagues globally. Hilton is committed to sustainability and will offset any group’s CO2 emissions, free of charge. Learn more about Hilton Lake TaupoDaily housekeeping Restaurant and bar/lounge Outdoor pool Breakfast available 2 outdoor tennis courts Fitness center Sauna Steam room Self parking Children's pool 24-hour room service Business center
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: Solitaire LodgeSolitaire Lodge 5 nights from 4,570 per person  Solitaire Lodge Rotorua is one of the finest examples of Luxury Accommodation New Zealand has to offer. Solitaire Lodge was one of the first New Zealand luxury lodges to offer secluded luxury accommodation and attentive hosting from a spectacular lakeside location. Styled with comfort in mind, all 10 luxury accommodation suites feature panoramic views of the glassy lake and magnificent volcano through grand picture windows. The subtle design brings the outdoors in, inviting you to unwind and soak up the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting. Renowned for its fine dining, Solitaire lodge serves contemporary New Zealand cuisine prepared with fresh local produce and complemented by superb New Zealand wines from selected vineyards. Engage in lively conversation with fellow guests in the lodge’s dining room, or choose an intimate dinner for two in your suite. Minutes from this iconic North Island resort you will discover a multitude of activities including secluded hot water beaches and natural thermal hot springs beckoning you to soak in, world-?class Rainbow Trout fishing, guided helicopter tours to White Island and Mount Tarawera. Self guided hikes to Tarawera Falls, cycle trails past some of the most unique geothermal sites in the world. The lodge is also the perfect place to simply relax, indulge and rejuvenate, left in the able hands of your warm, friendly New Zealand hosts. Learn more about Solitaire LodgeTelevision Telephone Full Kitchen Heating In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Ensuite Bathroom with Separate Shower Iron and Ironing board Overhead Fans Minibar Air Conditioning Patio/Balcony
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: Wharekauhau Country EstateWharekauhau Country Estate 5 nights from 4,400 per person  Learn more about Wharekauhau Country EstateHair Dryer Television DVD Player Telephone Safety Deposit Box (In Room) Full Kitchen Heating In-room Internet Access Ensuite Bathroom Kitchenette Coffee & Tea Making Facilities Ensuite Bathroom with Separate Shower Iron and Ironing board Overhead Fans 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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