Top 10 Spring Getaways

New Zealand is a stunning country.

From snow-capped mountains in the winter, to sprawling sand dunes and turquoise waters in the summer, to frolicking lambs and daffodils in the spring, to shaded falling leaves in autumn, New Zealand is a beautiful place to visit, no matter what the season.

As we gear up towards spring, we’ve searched high and low and discovered what we think are the top 10 spring getaways in the country.

Sit back, have a read, and go and experience New Zealand in its spring glory for yourself.

1. Lake Tekapo

Situated in the heart of the Mackenzie District in the middle of the South Island, springtime in Lake Tekapo truly is a spectacular sight.

With the lupin flowers in full bloom against the backdrop of the jaw-dropping Southern Alps, complete with a jewel-studded crystal blue lake, this small resort town in spring is magic personified.

2. Kapiti Island

Situated about an hour’s boat ride off the beautiful Kapiti Coast, Kapiti Island is the perfect place to visit on a weekend trip from Wellington.

Climb to the top of the Island, enjoy a feast prepared by the local Māori who live there, and if you’re feeling adventurous, opt to stay overnight for a truly spectacular Kiwi night tour. View them in their natural habitat, understand how this endangered species survives in the wild, and enjoy the crisp dewy morning complete with a sun-streaked boat ride on the way back to shore.

3. Bay of Islands

While many think of this bucket-list destination as a summer must-do, the Bay of Islands in spring really is the best of both worlds.

Still hot (but not too hot!) With plenty of activities and tours to choose from, this must-see destination has fewer visitors in the shoulder months, allowing for cheaper prices, more accommodation options, and, let's be honest, less annoying tourists.

4. Cape Reinga

Situated at the very tip of the North Island, complete with a lighthouse overlooking views to the Pacific Ocean as far as the eye can see, Cape Reinga is an extremely popular tourist destination.

With extreme heat in summer, complete with tourists and families making the most of the school holidays, spring is a perfect time to visit this spiritually significant destination and beat the heat and crowds.

5. Queenstown

Queenstown is a stunning place to visit year-round.

However, if you want to escape the crowds, high accommodation costs, and make the most of spring skiing, Queenstown in spring is the perfect compromise.

Snow-capped alps, sunny days, and crisp, frosty mornings full of hope. What more could you ask for?

6. Abel Tasman

The Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s great wonders.

Explore the park by land, kayak, scenic cruise, water taxi or catamaran, encounter lush native rainforests and birds that cascade through lagoons, sunbathe on the golden sand beaches, and spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear water. 

With the highest number of sunshine hours in the country, this is one location where the shoulder months are arguably even better to visit than the summer.

7. Hawkes Bay

Spring in the Hawkes Bay is the quintessential spring experience.

Flowers are blooming, lambs are frolicking, the Hawkes Bay Farmers market is bursting with new season fruit and veges, and temperatures are on rise.

Head to Cape Kidnappers and view the thousands of male gannets that have made their way for mating season, or get in on the action at the famous Spring Fling.

8. Coromandel

There’s no bad time to visit the Coromandel.

With stunning coastal scenery, white golden beaches, and a plethora of natural attractions, the Coromandel is an extremely popular tourist destination in summer.

Make the most of the off-peak season and basque in nature’s glory without the crowds in this beautiful part of New Zealand.

9. New Plymouth

Situated on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, New Plymouth is a great place to visit in the springtime.

Visit the famous Pukeiti and marvel at over 2000 species of rhododendron in full colour or admire the flora and fauna in the jewel of New Plymouth’s crown - Pukekura Park.

10. Milford Sound

Located in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound truly is as stunning as the pictures make you believe.

Spring in particular is a magical time to explore, with the melting snow and leftover rainfall bringing a plethora of waterfalls across the sound, making your pictures that much more spectacular.

Admire the newborn lambs and fawns in the surrounding farmland and the bright red flowers of the Southern Rata Tree on your journey over.