Where to Visit in Summer in New Zealand
Summertime is a time for celebration in New Zealand: Christmas, New Year’s and numerous festivals! Of course, there’s room for your beach getaways, as well as some sensational sights that you can only see in summer. With more consistently bright and sunny weather, there’s nothing to stop you from enjoying the great outdoors that New Zealand is famous for.
Just remember, the UV levels in New Zealand are hugely intense. Make sure you wear sunscreen, even if you don’t usually!
If the New Zealand seasons are confusing you, see our guide to the NZ Climate and Seasons. Before we begin, be sure to bookmark The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand for even more tips.
1. Bay of Islands
Well, it’s called the ‘winterless north’, but if you are seeking hot temperatures then Bay of Islands is the best place to go. Temperatures can pass 30ºC (86ºF). Indeed, there are some beaches to sunbathe on but out on the water is where you want to be to cruise around the 144 islands, home to many fascinating bird species, and go swimming with dolphins.
2. New Plymouth
From December to January is the renowned Festival of Lights. This is a music festival with some epic light displays around the town’s parks. Along the Coastal Walkway are a number of beaches for excellent surf breaks. Summer is also the best and safest time to climb Mt Taranaki. Find out more about New Plymouth and the Taranaki region in: The Complete Guide to New Plymouth.
3. Gisborne
On the East Cape, this is the first city in the world to see the sunrise. In turn, that means the 1st city to see the New Year! Celebrate the New Year in Gisborne with the epic Rhythm & Vines Festival a 3-day music event with international, national and local acts. Find out where else you can enjoy New Year’s Eve in 10 NYE Events in New Zealand You Can’t Miss!
4. Mt Maunganui
The seaside resort, on a thin arm of land, is a top summer holiday destination for locals and backpackers. With long stretches of white-sand beaches on either side of the arm, its ideal for beach bums. The town has a pretty hectic New Year’s Eve also with entertainment in the streets, on the beach, and, of course, fireworks. For more things to do, check out The Complete Guide to Tauranga.
5. Waiheke Island
A quick ferry ride from Auckland brings you to the beautiful Waiheke Island. Do a beach crawl and a vineyard crawl by hiring a bike, kayak or scooter. More New Year’s celebrations happen here in the vineyards hosting ever-changing festivals.
What About the Other Seasons?! Glad You Asked.
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.