New Zealand’s picturesque South Island offers a plethora of things to do and places to explore. If you’ve been thinking of visiting, you’ve probably wondered what is the best time of year to experience the island’s natural beauty and top attractions.
Well, the good news is that the South Island can be visited all year round. The optimal time will depend on your personal preferences, including what types of activities you enjoy, your budget, and your preferred weather conditions.
Read this guide for a walk-through of the different seasons on the West Coast so you can decide when to plan your trip!
Summer (December to February)
Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit the South Island thanks to the warm, dry weather that is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and hanging out at the gorgeous beaches. Just keep in mind that this is one of the busiest times of year on the West Coast, so we recommend booking your excursions in advance.
Autumn (March to May)
With the seasonal colour palette of reds, oranges, browns and yellows, autumn is a great time to visit the South Island. While the weather may be a little cooler, it is pleasant to be outdoors and enjoy activities like hiking and birdwatching.
Winter (June to August)
If you’re someone who enjoys winter sports like snowboarding and skiing, you may want to visit the South Island in winter. Temperatures can drop below freezing, so just make sure you are properly prepared for a chilly holiday.
The views of the snow-capped mountains from West Coast Treetop Walk are stunning this time of year!
Spring (September to November)
From hiking to hanging out at the beach, there are plenty of things to do in the springtime. The mountains are usually still covered in snow, but the ski season is over. There’s also an increase in animal activity and you can look forward to seeing colourful flowers in bloom.
Here at West Coast Treetop Walk, we are open throughout the year and look forward to welcoming you to our stunning property in Hokitika. Take a stroll along the walkway that winds through ancient rainforests and enjoy views of the nearby lake.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could fly over the treetops with our tandem zipline! Contact us today to book an unforgettable adventure with us.
