Reports of backpacking in New Zealand are overwhelmingly positive: people's expectations are exceeded, time after time. The word-of-mouth feedback is heartfelt and enthusiastic. Ask someone who has backpacked here - they will tell you it's easy to get around, it’s cheap, and that New Zealand is vivid and diverse.
What’s the best time for backpacking in
New Zealand?
We have a temperate climate throughout the country, with warmer temperatures in the North Island, colder temperatures in the South Island and more extreme temperatures in the high country.
The New Zealand summer is from December to March, so if you want to go hiking (tramping), take on an outdoor working holiday, surf or swim, these are the best months to come. You can hike in New Zealand in the winter, but many of the more popular hiking tracks are closed because of avalanche risk.
If you’re into skiing or snow sports, the best snow is from late June to September, depending on the location of the skifield. Come in time for the Queenstown Winter Festival, a 10-day celebration of skiing, snowboarding and fun in general!
