New Zealand Winter Travel Roundup

Few places in the world seem to pack seem to pack as many activities into such a small space as New Zealand. In a single day, adventures can be had across the mountains, ocean, lakes and plains. And when the weather turns cool, locals don’t slow down – they add a layer or two of clothing and get back out there.

June through August is Kiwi wintertime, when available activities range from the Auckland Food Show (held annually in August), to a family zip lining adventure through Queenstown’s alpine forests. Those looking for a challenge can hike through the easily accessible Fox and Franz Joseph Glaciers, which extend down from New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

To offer a broad view of the region’s treasures, several cruise operators have begun serving ports throughout Australia and New Zealand, including Celebrity. The Celebrity Solstice loads guests from Auckland or Sydney traveling through Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds. The itinerary’s seven ports of call – The Bay of Islands, Wellington, Tauranga, Denedin, Akaroa, Melbourne and Hobart.

Skiing is a popular winter activity on both the north and south islands. When its time to wind down, thermal hot springs, vineyards and cultural attractions abound.