Fall - March, April and May

Fall is a magnificent time of year to visit New Zealand. The countryside is simply gorgeous with the arrival of the autumn leaves; the weather is still sunny and perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. Prices drop during the fall when things become quieter and accommodations and attractions are less crowded, things start to get busy again around Easter and school holidays take place in April. The vibrant changing colors of the trees can be quite spectacular especially in Queenstown, Central Otago, and Christchurch. And hunting season officially kicks off in February and runs through September, deer hunting is especially popular in New Zealand with the incredible red stag. Cooler temperatures start towards the end of March and early winter creeps in May, but the weather is still enjoyable with warm, sunny days.

Events and Festivals

- Bluff Oyster Festival (May) - Celebrating the oyster season with live music, food, and regional wine.

- Warbirds over Wanaka Air Show - (Easter weekend) - Airshow with fighter jets and historic planes.