New Zealand in Winter

Snow Activities

New Zealand’s winter snow transforms its landscapes into a stunning wonderland, especially in the South Island’s Southern Alps. The snow-capped mountains create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, particularly in areas like Queenstown, Wanaka, and Mount Cook. Even outside of the ski resorts, the crisp white snow blankets the rolling hills and valleys, making for picturesque scenery.

To enjoy the snowy landscape of NZ visit from June to August.

Best activities to do in Winter

  • Skiing, snowboarding, and sledding

    Top ski fields for the best adventures:

    Treble Cone - Wanaka, Turoa - Ohakune, Mt. Hutt - Canterbury.

  • Glacier Hiking, Mount Cook

    Guided tours take you safely onto the glacier, where you can marvel at ice formations, deep blue meltwater pools, and stunning alpine views. Glacier hiking at Mount Cook provides an exhilarating way to experience one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders.

  • Celebrate Matariki the Maori New Year

    Matariki is a Māori celebration marking the rise of the Matariki star cluster, which signals the start of the Māori New Year in mid-winter. Visit a Marae and try a traditional Hangi meal. Learn to weave flax and experience the haka.

  • Soak in naturally heated thermal hot pools

    Surrounded by forests, mountains, or lakes. The top spots include:

    The Lost Spring, Whitianga, coromandel, Te Aroha, south of Auckland, Hells Gate, Rotorua, Taupo DeBretts Hot Springs, Taupo