With news of a possible two-way Trans-Tasman bubble opening up just in time for winter, Aussies now have the chance to pop over to their smaller neighbour for their first foray overseas since the pre-pandemic era. But is New Zealand a good place to visit at that time of year? After spending all of last winter working and travelling in New Zealand’s stunning South Island, I can assure you that the winter months are some of the best for exploring this beautiful country, and I’ve amassed a fair few recommendations of things to see and do. Read on to plan your perfect winter break to Aotearoa.
Aoraki/Mount Cook
Hands down one of my favourite parts of the South Island is the area around Aoraki/Mount Cook. This is New Zealand’s tallest mountain and an excellent place to explore at all times of year, but I think it really comes to life during the winter. If you love snow, trekking and fantastic views, then I highly recommend you pay a visit. Treks vary from easy (Hooker Valley) to hard (ice climbing in the glaciers anyone?) but all offer such stunning scenery that it’s impossible to make a poor choice. Heli-skiing is also an option, or you could take a flight over the mountains to see the Tasman glacier from above.
Skiing
There are some fantastic ski and snowboard options in New Zealand, with the season lasting from June through to October. The best place to base yourself is Queenstown, where there are several ski resorts to choose from. I can highly recommend Cardrona (between Queenstown and Wanaka), but I’ve also heard good things about Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. Queenstown itself is the true centre of the action of South Island, with plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy during your evenings after a day on the slopes.
Hot Pools
After a busy day skiing what better way to soothe those aching muscles than by relaxing in one of New Zealand’s many hot pool resorts. If you’re staying in Queenstown, then make sure you swing by Onsen Hot Pools for an hour of absolute bliss in their cedar lined tubs overlooking the beautiful Shotover Canyon. Willing to explore slightly further afield? I highly recommend a stay at Maruia Hot Springs, the South Island’s best kept secret tucked away in the Lewis Pass, where the pools are filled with natural geothermal waters infused with natural minerals that help detoxify the body. They have both indoor and outdoor pools as well as a traditional sauna and the best cold plunge pool I’ve ever found!
Cosy Cabins
What’s a winter escape without a bit of cabin porn? And no, before you let your mind sink into the gutter, I’m not talking about that. Rather, log cabins and backcountry huts: the perfect antidote to our busy city lives. Free from the distractions of modern day living and surrounded by nothing but mountains and sheep, these remote escapes are something that New Zealand does perhaps better than anywhere else in the world. Head over to Twizel for a stay at High Country Cabin, a strong contender for the prize of my favourite airbnb ever. Make sure to stock up on food and a bottle (or several) of Otago pinot noir before you go!
It’s the best time for a road trip
It may seem counter intuitive, but winter is an awesome time to travel around New Zealand, as there are fewer people around and the landscapes look so beautiful with the snowy mountains in the background. Your options are endless: head to Franz Josef to see the glaciers, Arthur’s Pass to see the Kea or over to Kaikoura to see whales (July is peak migration period so a good time to spot them), Tekapo and Pukaki to see the impossibly blue lakes sparkling in the winter sun or down to Te Anau to visit Milford Sound without the crowds. If you’re driving yourself, just make sure to always check the weather, follow local advice and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination before nightfall.
The food
Something that’s often overlooked about New Zealand is how amazing the food is. And what better time of year to enjoy it than when you’re burning tons of calories skiing, hiking and just generally trying to keep warm? If you’re based in Queenstown then definitely try and snag a table at Rātā – you’re in for a treat. And definitely don’t overlook the iconic Fergburger – it’s famous for a reason. Cheese lovers will be delighted when they discover how many small NZ-owned dairies there are – my top fave is the black truffle brie by Over The Moon Dairy – why not pick this up to make your own cheeseboard while staying at a remote New Zealand backcountry hut? Oh, and don’t forget the wines. NZ may be famous for its Marlborough whites, but it certainly pulls its weight with the reds too: Otago (the region around Queenstown) is famous for its delicious pinot noirs: my favourites are Maude and Two Paddocks (Sam Neill’s wine). That being said, I’m also obsessed with Theory and Practice (a Hawke’s Bay Syrah).
I’d really love to visit New Zealand one day!