Spring is a spectacular season to discover New Zealand, with lots of colourful flowers around, baby animals and mild temperatures across the country. There are many stunning places that are especially beautiful to visit during spring, from Wanaka with its iconic lupins to Hawke’s Bay vineyards. We’ve highlighted the top spring destinations that showcase New Zealand and its best.
When is the Spring Season in New Zealand?
The spring season in New Zealand falls between September and November. These months mean the days are getting longer, leaves are becoming greener, and the chill from winter is shifting away. September usually starts with cool and crisp mornings, while November can start to creep into the low twenties. If you’re looking to travel in New Zealand in the spring months, you can expect fairly varied weather, with sunny afternoons some days and some gentle showers the next. This creates the perfect conditions for greenery and flowers to bloom, waterfalls across the country to flow and wildlife to shine. Lamb season also kicks off in spring, so you can expect to see lots of playful baby animals on your visit.
Why Travel During the Spring Months?
Spring in New Zealand is often considered a sweet spot for travellers. It's a great balance of mild weather without the heat of summer or the crowds of peak holiday periods. The spring season usually means that walking tracks, national parks and popular attractions are often quieter than in the summer time, meaning you have more time to enjoy these spots to yourself. New Zealand is known for its beautiful landscapes and nature, and spring is the perfect time to see it. Flowers and trees begin to bloom again, whilst snow still sits perfectly on mountain tops, making for some stunning scenic views across the country. Another perk of travelling during the springtime is the cost. Flights and accommodations are generally more affordable compared to December or January, meaning you can extend your trip or add more stops and still stay in your budget.
See Lake Tekapo and Wanaka’s Lupins in Full Bloom
Lake Tekapo and Wanaka are renowned for their lake and mountain views year-round, but seeing them in spring is something extra special with lupins starting to flower along the lakeside. These tall flowers and a beautiful touch of pink, purple and blue to the lake’s landscape and make for a great photo opportunity. For travellers looking for some of New Zealand’s spring highlights, this is a must-see. The best time to see lupins in New Zealand, especially around Wanaka and Lake Tekapo, is generally October through to November. The best way to see them in full swing is to walk or cycle around these great lakes. For an even more beautiful viewing, visit during sunrise or sunset when the light softens. Both Lake Tekapo and Wanaka are great places to stop and see the lupins, as there are many other activities and attractions to see whilst you are down there. Beyond the flowers, you can explore the local walking tracks or visit Mount Aspiring National Park for even more stunning scenery. Wanaka also has a lovely lakeside town that is great to stay in and explore whilst enjoying the peaceful spring season.
Stop in Hawke’s Bay Vineyards
Spring is a lovely time to visit Hawke’s Bay, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions. Vineyards across the region are beginning to bud in spring, and the mild weather is ideal for outdoor tastings, long lunches and cycling between the different vineyards. During the spring months, Hawke’s Bay hosts seasonal food and wine events that offer up local produce and world-class wines, making it a perfect stop on your spring visit to New Zealand. Unlike the peak summer season, visiting in spring means less crowded wineries and a more peaceful experience. Napier and Havelock North are great bases to explore the wider regions and vineyards. These areas are well-known for their unique Art Deco architecture, boutique shops and sea views, making for a great stop.
Enjoy Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful parks, and spring is a wonderful time to visit. With the park being surrounded by the ocean, summer is generally its peak season, meaning walking tracks are more peaceful, and you may even get some beaches all to yourself during the spring season. September through to November is a wonderful time to explore the park. You can experience day trips walking through sections of the Abel Tasman Great Walk, or complete the entire thing and stay in huts and stunning campgrounds along the way. The track is a moderate difficulty and can suit many walking and fitness levels, especially being able to tailor the length to your own needs. Walking this track during spring reduces the need for heavy gear whilst avoiding getting too hot during the days.
The park is also just as stunning if you explore via kayaking or water taxi, letting you see the clear turquoise waters up close. You might even get to see some native marine life, from seals to dolphins and native birds.
Explore Hobbiton in Spring
The Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is a great spot to add to your spring travel list. The gardens surrounding the famous Hobbit backdrop are in full bloom with colourful flowers and bright greenery around the rolling hills. If you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, this is a must-do activity if you’re visiting New Zealand in spring. You can take guided tours through the 12-acre film set, looking extra magical in the spring months. Beyond the film connection, Hobbiton shows off the rural Waikato region. You’ll find sheep and lambs in the nearby fields and rolling hills around the area. The Green Dragon Inn offers seasonal drinks, perfect for ending a tour with a taste of Middle-earth hospitality.
See Geothermal Pools & Relax in Rotorua’s Hot Springs
Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity and is home to many natural hot springs. Spring is one of the best times to experience these pools, where temperatures are mild enough to enjoy the hot pools surrounded by greenery coming into bloom. Hell’s Gate is a great option for experiencing the natural hot spring and mud pools for mineral-rich baths, whilst Secret Spot Hot Tubs is the perfect place for unwinding in your own private hot tub amongst Rotorua’s greenery. You can enjoy 10% off a personal Secret Spot Hot Tub when you’re travelling around New Zealand in a Mode Rental vehicle. If you’re looking to explore the thermal pools and geysers during your time in Rotorua, Wai-O-Tapu is a must-do, with exploding geysers and geothermal activity. Past the hot spring and geothermal pools, we recommended exploring Whakarewarewa Forest, where you can see some of the best towering redwoods in New Zealand and even zip-line amongst them.
What to Pack for a New Zealand Spring Trip
The weather can shift fairly quickly during the spring months in New Zealand, so it’s important you pack accordingly with flexibility in mind. Layers are key to doing this. Ensure you pack breathable base clothing and warm layers for mornings and evenings. Include a light waterproof jacket for brief showers that often appear in September and October. Comfortable walking shoes are another essential, as spring is ideal for exploring trails, vineyards, and towns on foot. Sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen are equally important, since UV levels can be high even on cooler days and are particularly essential when hiking or cycling. Including swimwear might seem unusual, but if you are visiting natural hot springs or feeling brave enough to dip into the beautifully clear water of the Abel Tasman, they are essential to pack.
New Zealand is particularly stunning in spring, so make sure you have a camera or phone with extra memory to capture those picture-perfect moments. Reusable water bottles and snacks are also great to have on hand, especially for those longer drives between destinations.
Plan Your Spring Journey Across New Zealand
Spring is the perfect time to visit some of our favourite destinations across New Zealand. One of the best ways to experience these destinations at your own pace is with a road trip through the North or South Island, or even both. To see it all, you can start in the North Island, picking up an Auckland Airport rental car and heading to Hobbiton’s gardens and Rotorua’s geothermal pools, then travel south to Hawke’s Bay vineyards. Cross the Cook Strait to enjoy Abel Tasman’s coastal trails and Lake Tekapo’s lupins. Or, if you’re looking for a shorter journey, just stick to one Island or pick and choose your top spots. Mode Rentals has a range of rental vehicles available to suit your journey and travel style. Compact rental cars are perfect for smaller groups, couples or solo travellers wanting to efficiently travel around New Zealand whilst still being comfortable. For larger groups and families, you can find a range of SUVs and vans to get you across the country on your spring road trip. With locations across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown, you can perfectly tailor your spring visit to the spots on your wish list.
Whether following a short itinerary or planning a longer adventure, spring in New Zealand provides endless reasons to explore. Head out in your rental car and begin to discover both iconic highlights and hidden gems that make the spring season so memorable in New Zealand.
Spring in New Zealand FAQs
How cold is spring in NZ?
Spring temperatures range from 10 - 20°C, depending on the specific region, with the North Island experiencing warmer spring temperatures than the South. Mornings can be crisp, while afternoons often feel pleasantly warm. Layers are recommended, as conditions shift quickly between sunny spells and light rain showers.
How to pack for New Zealand in spring?
Pack light layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes. Include sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days and swimwear for hot springs or cold ocean plunges. Ensure you have a warm jumper or fleece for the cooler evenings.
Which part of NZ should I visit in spring?
Both New Zealand islands are great to visit in the spring. The North Island offers Hobbiton, Rotorua, and Hawke’s Bay vineyards, while the South Island features Lake Tekapo and Wanaka and their iconic lupins during spring, and beautiful walking tracks like the Abel Tasman National Park. Combining regions with a road trip provides the best mix of landscapes, culture, and seasonal highlights for the next spring visit to New Zealand.
