Autumn is the ultimate time to travel around New Zealand to experience a wide range of exciting activities, from festivals to outdoor adventures.
Unsure where to find the best foliage-covered terrains that will provide plenty of photo opportunities and unforgettable moments. This list offers some of the best places to visit to experience autumn in New Zealand.
» Also check out the 25 Best Things to Do in Queenstown in Winter.
Looking for more travel inspiration in New Zealand? See our Best Places to Visit in New Zealand and these 25 Unmissable Tourist Attractions. Here are a few more Hidden Gems to Explore.
When is Autumn in New Zealand?
Autumn in New Zealand is from March to May. As a resident of New Zealand, I travel around the country all year round and autumn is the best time to visit New Zealand in my experience.
Specifically, the best month to visit New Zealand is April. Temperatures are cooler but the days are generally clear and sunny, summer crowds are gone, prices are cheaper and fall foliage starts to peak mid-month.
What’s the weather like?
The weather is generally stable in autumn, with crisp sunny days and clear skies turning into cooler evenings. Average daytime temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) on the North Island to 18°C (65°F) on the South Island.
March often feels like an extension of summer with long sunny days until mid-April, when temperatures start to become chilly. May can become cold, particularly in the South Island and alpine areas.
What to Pack?
Layers! My best advice is to pack layers that will cover you for the warmer days and into the cooler evenings. You can find more details on what to bring in our New Zealand Packing Guide which includes a printable packing list.
When to see fall colors in New Zealand?
Fall colors in New Zealand tend to peak in mid-April and are more prominent in areas of the South Island, although we’ve included some fantastic locations in the North Island as well.
Let’s check them out.
Best Places to Visit in New Zealand in Autumn
As many regions consider autumn to be a shoulder season, this season is the perfect time to visit for fewer crowds and lower costs for things like car rentals, hotels and activities, not to mention dream landscapes for photography enthusiasts. Take a look at these fall destinations in New Zealand to visit on your next trip.
1. Arrowtown
An enduring piece of gold mining history, this charming small town will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Autumn in Arrowtown is one of the best times to visit. The weather is good and the fall foliage is bursting around you. The shoulder season provides less visitors around town and fewer people on the trails.
Arrowtown showcases some of the best fall foliage in Central Otago. For that reason, we like to stay a couple of nights in Arrowtown so we have plenty of time to take in the autumn landscapes, including early morning and evening photography sessions.
In April, Arrowtown hosts the Autumn Festival, when the town comes together to celebrate the end of summer and the colors of the autumn season. There’s a parade through town, food stalls, music, entertainment and more.
Top Autumn Activity: There’s plenty of fun things to do in Arrowtown, but a walk along one of the colorful trails is an epic way to see the fall colors. Try the Arrow River Trail for a leisurely stroll or the Sawpit Gully Trail for a more challenging hike.
2. Queenstown
Queenstown is a popular destination on the South Island and there’s lots of activities to cover, but autumn is one of the cheapest times to visit this vibrant resort town, between the summer holidays and winter ski season.
The shoulder season provides more affordable accommodation and fewer lines at major attractions. The weather is generally stable, with warm days turning into chilly evenings. During fall, average temperatures in Queenstown can range from low 40s to mid 60s.
You can take a walk around Lake Hayes, wander around Queenstown Gardens or ride the Queenstown Trail to see the fall foliage.
While you’re there, be sure to hit up these activities that are too crowded in summer:
- Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak
- Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw to Walters Peak
- Jet Boating on the Shotover River
- Ziplining in Queenstown
- Hiking the various trails like Ben Lomond, Queenstown Hill Walk or Bob’s Cove
Top Autumn Activity: With cooler temperatures after the summer heat, a 4WD Tour of Skippers Canyon is an epic adventure you won’t want to miss.
Other tours you might enjoy:
3. Cromwell
Autumn is a special time of year for this Central Otago gem, and our favorite time to visit with fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and golden hued vineyards as far as the eye can see. The drive from Queenstown to Cromwell is beautiful and took us only 45 minutes.
There’s plenty of great things to do in Cromwell. When we visited in the fall, we enjoyed all those outdoor activities you don’t want to do in the heat of summer, like a picnic on the shores of Lake Dunstan, hiking and bike riding.
Cromwell has a history rich in gold mining but today is known for its production of stone fruit, which is harvested in early autumn, and great wine!
Central Otago is a prominent wine producing region in New Zealand, most famous for the Pinot Noir. White varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer flourish as well, thanks to the region’s diverse soil composition and climate.
You can go on a wine tasting tour or enjoy tastings at the wide variety of vineyards and wineries around Cromwell on your own, visit the Cromwell Heritage Precinct and sample the region’s finest stone fruit fresh from the orchard.
Top Autumn Activity: Cycle the scenic Lake Dunstan Trail, a 42km (26 mile) long ride between Cromwell Heritage Precinct and Clyde Heritage Precinct. It takes you along boardwalks, an 86m (282 foot) suspension bridge, rock walls and through landforms shaped by the gold mining days. It’s one of the best rides we’ve ever done!
Tours you might enjoy:
4. Wanaka
Wanaka is a stunning destination to visit in autumn, showcasing breathtaking landscapes in rich shades of gold, orange, and red. Nestled beside the picturesque Lake Wanaka and surrounded by the Southern Alps, this charming town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation.
Autumn is the perfect season for big adventures like hiking and mountain biking, with trails such as the popular Roy’s Peak providing stunning panoramic views of the lake and mountains adorned in autumn hues.
For a little relaxation, head to the nearby Rippon Vineyard for some wine tasting, explore local markets, or take leisurely strolls along the lakefront. It’s also the best season for photography and my favorite time of year to visit for that reason.
Top Autumn Activity: For a unique experience, take the water taxi to Mou Waho Island, a protected nature reserve and home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. There are breathtaking panoramic views of the area from the top of the island.
Tours you might enjoy:
5. Arthur’s Pass
With frosty weather in winter, unpredictable conditions in spring, and hot temperatures in summer, autumn is a great time to visit Arthur’s Pass. Although Arthur’s Pass experiences moderate temperatures during fall, weather can change quickly in the mountains so take warm clothing and rainwear.
Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, this national park offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and crystal-clear rivers, all enhanced by the warm hues of autumn foliage. The sunlight isn’t so harsh, so it’s a nice time for photography.
Autumn also brings fewer crowds so you won’t be competing with all the other visitors.
Top Autumn Activity: The cooler temperatures make it perfect for hiking, with a variety of trails available, including the popular Devil’s Punchbowl Track, which leads to a stunning waterfall surrounded by colorful alpine scenery.
Tours you might enjoy:
6. Marlborough
One of the best times to visit Marlborough is during autumn, when the harvest season commences (typically early March to April). This destination is New Zealand’s largest wine growing region known for its top class wines, and fall is a rare opportunity to see the grape picking and wine making in action. Learn more about Marlborough Wine Region.
The vines begin to change colors in the vineyards as well, painting the entire landscape in golden hues. It’s a sight you must see. The temperature in autumn is cooler, generally in the 60s, but still pleasant.
Top Autumn Activity: Walk, bike or join a tour to any number of cellar doors to try the region’s world famous Sauvignon Blanc and fresh seafood, like Allan Scott Bistro and Rimapere Cellar Door in Rapaura, or Cloudy Bay Vineyards in Blenheim.
Tours you might enjoy:
7. Christchurch
Fall is a spirited time to visit Christchurch, as the city comes alive with vibrant autumn colors and a crisp, refreshing atmosphere.The city’s parks and gardens, such as the iconic Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, showcase stunning displays of autumn foliage, making them perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
Autumn also marks the beginning of the cultural season in Christchurch, with various festivals and events celebrating art, music, and food. We love the Riverside Market, open 7 days a week. It’s a huge indoor farmer’s market filled with local goods and great restaurants.
Head to the nearby Port Hills for breathtaking views and scenic walking tracks. There are a ton of trails ranging from 30 minutes to 3 hours, like Godley Head, Halswell Quarry and Bridal Path tracks.
Top Autumn Activity: A punt ride on the Avon River is a great way to experience the fall colors from a unique perspective. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat with a skilled guide using a long pole to propel the boat along the water. Sit back and enjoy the sights as you glide past beautiful gardens, historic bridges, and charming riverside architecture.
We opted for this Christchurch Sightseeing Pass which offered great value. It got us a punt ride along the river, a gondola ride (nice higher up perspective) and a ticket for the hop-on hop-off tram to see all the sights.
Tours you might enjoy:
8. Twizel
There are many reasons to head to the Mackenzie Region of the South Island in autumn, especially for photography enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The backdrop of vibrant fall colors set against the striking Southern Alps and beautiful lakes transforms into a picture perfect scene for photography.
Located about halfway between Christchurch and Queenstown, Twizel is an ideal place to stop for a night or two on a South Island road trip. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding areas like Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook National Park, with fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation.
The cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking and biking along the scenic trails of the Mackenzie Basin, including the popular paths around Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo. The views of the turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains are absolutely breathtaking.
Top Autumn Activity: Take a stroll along the Twizel River Trail or Lake Ōhau Track for great views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
9. Hawkes Bay
One of the best times to visit Hawkes Bay is in the fall, from March to May. These months offer the best sightseeing weather and less crowds, along with sunny days, crisp nights and vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold adorning the beautiful landscapes.
Known for its picturesque vineyards and wineries, and with the grape and apple harvests underway, autumn is the perfect time to indulge in wine tasting and enjoy the region’s renowned varietals, particularly its Bordeaux-style reds. Te Mata Peak, Craggy Range and Black Barn are all within a few kilometers of one another in the beautiful town of Havelock North.
The cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring the scenic countryside. Cycle along the Hawke’s Bay Trails, stroll around the Art Deco town of Napier or hike to the summit of Te Mata Peak for epic views over the region.
Top Autumn Activity: Hire a bike and explore the vineyards on a self-guided winery tour where you can soak up the landscapes and sample the region’s best wines
10. Wairarapa
A top contender for the best autumn destination in the North Island located just an hours’ drive from Wellington, the Wairarapa knows how to embrace the cozy pleasures of what this season brings. Known for its picturesque wineries and charming rural towns, autumn is the perfect time to visit this region.
From wine tasting to golden hillsides, you can easily spend a fall weekend going to festivals or enjoying the local wine and fresh produce in a cozy atmosphere. The only issue will be deciding where to go first.
Greytown is a quaint Victorian town filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and many established trees. Get a map of the Heritage Tree Trail from the Information Center on Main Street to find the town’s best trees decked out in autumn colors and learn about their long history.
Martinborough is filled with boutique wineries and a charming colonial town center. Autumn is the best time to enjoy the harvest and visit wineries. Poppies and Palliser Estate are two popular wineries that we like, and there are many other family-owned wineries within walking or biking distance of the town center.
Additionally, the Wairarapa region hosts various harvest festivals and local markets during this season like the Wairarapa Balloon Festival and Greytown Apple Harvest Festival in mid April, and the Martinborough Fair in early March.
Top Autumn Activity: Follow the 10km return Greytown-Woodside Trail, which follows the original branch line that connected the town to the historic Woodside Station, to experience the changing colors in full throttle.
Tours you might enjoy:
11. Tongariro National Park
With otherworldly terrain and beautiful waterfalls, Tongariro National Park promises an autumn adventure in some of the country’s most fascinating natural landscapes.
One of the most popular attractions in the North Island, Tongariro is sure to top any New Zealand bucket list. The autumn season is the perfect time to make a trip to this natural phenomenon.
Activities such as hiking, photography and wildlife spotting are still in full swing, before the end of the season. It’s a great time to hike the park’s trails with milder temperatures and there is more wildlife present with less people around. Plus you’ll pay less for your accommodation, win-win.
Although the fall foliage may not be as dramatic as the South Island, the golden terrain creates a stunning contrast against the park’s iconic volcanic peaks, which makes for plenty of epic photo opportunities.
Top Autumn Activity: April is one of the best months to explore the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which showcases breathtaking views, emerald lakes, and unique geological features without the summer crowds.
Tours you might enjoy:
Final Thoughts
Autumn in New Zealand is a breathtaking season that showcases the country’s diverse landscapes in a stunning array of colors. From the vibrant foliage in vineyards and national parks to the crisp air and clear skies, this time of year offers a unique charm that fuels the fire of a day filled with epic outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, enjoying wine tastings, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this season in New Zealand will have you covered.
Travel Planning Guide
🚗 Where should I book my rental car?
Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around New Zealand. Public transportation can only get you so far, even in the cities. I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.
🚐 What about a campervan?
Renting a campervan is a fantastic way to experience the more remote areas of New Zealand. I really like JUCY because they have a big range of vehicles and locations around the country, which offers more flexibility with pick-up and drop-off. I also like Motorhome Republic, which compares all the campervan options available in NZ.
🎟 Where should I book my tours?
Tours are a great way to experience New Zealand’s top attractions while learning about the area and culture through local guides. We always use Viator and Get Your Guide to find the best tours.
🛏 What’s the best way to book my accommodations?
For hotels and vacation rentals, Booking.com or Expedia.com are the best sites. You can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, try VRBO which often has good deals.
🛩 What’s the best site to buy flights to New Zealand?
For finding the best deals on flights to New Zealand from around the world, I recommend Kayak.com.
Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.
FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more New Zealand travel inspiration and tips!
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Heather is a travel enthusiast living in New Zealand with her family. She writes about living in and enjoying travel to New Zealand.