New Zealand is beautiful all year round, but springtime is especially a magical time to visit. The country comes to life from September through November with bright blossoms, rich scenery, and temperate temperatures. Early spring is traditionally one of the least busy periods to visit New Zealand. The daytime hours are quite lengthy giving you more time to enjoy through the day to try out various activities. By late spring, when the days are even longer and the temperature is warmer, one could enjoy an ideal balance of both beach days and snowy mountaintops.
New Zealand’s spring is a season of renewal and adventure for all. So why not explore our list of family-friendly springtime activities on your next holiday.
EXPLORE A DIVERSE RANGE OF PLANTS
From the subtropical to the sub-alpine, one could find all kinds of plants here and if you are an avid gardener, a garden tour is a must during the spring. Many cities and towns provide garden tours where one can visit both public and private gardens and spend some time with the gardeners to hear about their passion for the plants they grow and the methods they use. The owners of stately ancient homesteads frequently serve as tour guides for the rural garden tours in Tairawhiti, Manawatu, Whanganui, Wairarapa, and Christchurch – Canterbury. One must also explore the lush, sub-tropical beauty of Kerikeri’s Palmco Gardens. In the North Island, you will find the Hamilton Gardens’ five themed garden collections that examine the connection between people and plants. Here, you’ll find gardens inspired by places as diverse as India, Italy and China as well as a herb garden and an area devoted entirely to rhododendrons.
ENJOY THE MARINE LIFE
In New Zealand, marine wildlife watching is a mesmerizing experience that unveils nature’s splendors. Walk along some of New Zealand’s most rugged shoreline and pay close attention because initially you may think you’re only seeing rocks. But as you move ahead, you could find yourself smiling at a fur seal soaking up the sun. You can find seals at Cape Palliser near Wellington, and at Castlepoint on the Wairarapa coast in the North Island. You can also spot seals, dolphins, and penguins by kayaking around Tonga Island in the Abel Tasman National Park on the South Island. Tour the Catlins Coast and Gillespies Beach near Haast where one can also hope to spy Hooker’s sea lions, southern elephant seals and leopard seals.
GET AMAZED BY BREATHTAKING WATERFALLS
From the soaring heights of Taranaki Falls to the serenity of Tawhai Falls, there are numerous stunning waterfalls to experience in New Zealand, many of which are conveniently located near major cities or towns. Whether you’re looking for adventure or peace and quiet, New Zealand’s waterfalls provide an awe-inspiring connection with nature, making it a must-see location for waterfall enthusiasts. Beautiful waterfalls can be seen throughout the Catlins. The most widely recognized of these is Pūrākaunui Falls, a spectacular waterfall with three distinctive tiers and a 20-meter drop. A small road off the main Owaka-Invercargill roadway leads to the waterfall after a short walk. This well-known jewel among Catlins forest waterfalls is just a short 10-minute hike from the parking lot on a well-maintained trail. The falls are a lovely sight because they are located within a pleasant reserve that has a mixture of podocarp and beech trees. The leisurely stroll through the tranquil beech forest will take you to a vantage point with a clear view of the magnificent Purakaunui Falls.
EMBARK ON CYCLING TRAILS
Cycling trails are a great way to enjoy New Zealand’s natural beauty in the springtime. Riders may pedal through lush forests, along breathtaking coasts, and through lovely lakes thanks to warmer weather and flowering landscapes. Whether you are exploring a route for a fun day out or taking the family on a cycling vacation, the extensive collection of cycle trails in New Zealand allows riders of all ages and skill levels to enjoy stunning scenery and active exploration. From the picturesque Otago Central Rail Trail to the captivating Queenstown Trail, these paths offer an immersive and environmentally friendly way to discover the nation’s varied topography, making springtime cycling a great journey in New Zealand.
CELEBRATE THE SPRING FESTIVITIES
Enjoy the splendour of New Zealand’s spring festivities. Enjoy the best wines and delicious treats at Toast Martinborough while admiring the gorgeous Wairarapa vineyards. One could also visit the annual Seafest in Kaikoura which is a seafood extravaganza with live music and activities centred on the ocean. These springtime events encapsulate the spirit of the time of year, where colourful cultural festivities coexist with nature to provide the ideal setting for savouring the delights of life.
