New Zealand in June: Places to Visit, Experiences, & Fun Winter Events!

New Zealand in June is a magical time of year. Winter turns the land into an enchanted destination covered in snow. The South Island offers world-class skiing and snowboarding. Queenstown, the adventure capital, offers thrilling sports like bungee jumping and jet boating. Relax by a raging fire in a cosy lodge. The North Island does not fall behind, providing cultural experiences at Rotorua and geothermal hot springs. The Māori New Year celebration, Matariki, begins in June as well. Enjoy starry nights and exciting cultural performances. June in New Zealand promises to be an amazing season filled with a wide variety of activities and breathtaking scenery. Prepare yourself for exploration and adventure with hassle-free New Zealand packages from Pickyourtrail!

New Zealand Weather in June

A winter wonderland with temperature swings is usually experienced in June in New Zealand. Enjoy beautiful winter scenery and clear, chilly New Zealand weather in June. The South Island experiences cool mornings of around 0°C and warm afternoons of up to 10°C. The New Zealand temperature in June is ideal for skiing and snowboarding in Queenstown and Wanaka. At 8°C to 15°C on average, the North Island experiences milder weather. Take a dip in the hot springs or discover Rotorua’s geothermal marvels, as the climate of New Zealand in June is just perfect for this. In coastal places, rain might pour on some days, adding to the cosy environment. Savour delicious local cuisine and welcoming hospitality. June offers longer, starry nights, ideal for stargazing because of its shorter days. Enjoy the season’s charm and different weather. Prepare for a one-of-a-kind winter adventure in New Zealand!

Best Places to visit in New Zealand in June

Franz Josef Glacier
Lake Tekapo
Mount Ruapehu
Te Papa Museum
Otago Central Rail Trail

1. Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier will give you an icy experience. Hike around the glacier with an experienced guide to get a glimpse of the blue ice. If you want to experience something more exciting, then try a helicopter sightseeing tour. Take a warm shower in the hot pools nearby once you are done with the icy adventure. Its striking appearance makes it a popular tourist destination, especially in June.

2. Lake Tekapo

In June, Lake Tekapo is simply off the hook. A calm blue sea can be seen with white mountains in the background. The Church of the Good Shepherd is a must-visit place, particularly to capture exquisite views. Explore the park at night and feast your eyes on the Dark Sky Reserve. Bathe in the hot springs, which are on the shore of the lake. Lake Tekapo is for those who wish for a peaceful and scenic experience.

Also Read: Explore 10 Best Places to Spot Glow Worms in New Zealand!

3. Mount Ruapehu

June is a great time to get an adrenaline rush on Mount Ruapehu. The energetic volcano turns into a perfect site for skiing and snowboarding. Have fun skiing and admiring stunning landscapes. Take a rest in the hot pools nearby after a day of hiking in the mountains. The snowy surroundings add a kind of fairy-tale coziness to the scene. For a thrilling and scenic drive, there is never a dull moment on Mount Ruapehu.

4. Te Papa Museum

Te Papa Museum, located in Wellington, should not be missed in June. Learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand. All age groups can interact with the various exhibits that are featured in the installations. You can warm up inside while enjoying great exhibits owing to the great Wellington New Zealand weather in June. Get some insights into the Māori culture and geology of the region. Te Papa provides an interesting and informative experience to visitors of all ages.

5. Otago Central Rail Trail

The Otago Central Rail Trail is ideal for cycling, especially in June. Drive through picturesque winter scenery or visit historical places. The trail has a variety of attractive features, including the snowy peaks and the atmosphere of picturesque towns. Grab a snack or a drink from a local café along the way. It is a fun and innovative way of touring the area. It is truly one of the best places to visit in New Zealand in June.

What to do in New Zealand in June?

Wildlife Spotting
Glacier Hiking
Wine Tasting
Stargazing
Whale Watching

1. Wildlife Spotting

Observe animals in their natural environment. Take time and travel to Zealandia in Wellington to watch native birds. Drive to Otago Peninsula for the albatross and penguins. The winter season is a good time to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Experience unique interactions with iconic New Zealand places to visit in June.

Also Read: 9 Reasons Why Skydiving in New Zealand is the Best

2. Glacier Hiking

Trek on glaciers for a memorable experience. Both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers provide tourists with an opportunity to take tour trips. Take a walk on the glaciers and go inside the caves made of ice. The winter makes it look like a frozen fairy-tale wonderland. This is undoubtedly an amazing experience for any adventure seeker. Your New Zealand trip in June promises to be a memorable holiday.

3. Wine Tasting

Fancy yourself with some wine tasting at the best vineyards in New Zealand. The wines produced in Marlborough and Central Otago are among the best in the world. Visit the wineries and enjoy some of the finest Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc wines out there. Admire the vineyard and savour excellent food pairings. It is a very pleasing experience for wine enthusiasts.

4. Stargazing

Stargazing in New Zealand in June — Image Credits: Pexels

Observing celestial bodies is bewitching in June. For the best views, you should go to the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. Stare at the beauty of the Milky Way and constellations. Take a guided tour to observe the stars and other celestial objects at night. The biting cold air makes stargazing and unwinding even more enjoyable things to do in New Zealand in June.

5. Whale Watching

Enjoy whale-watching in the Kaikoura area. June is one of the best months to see sperm whales and humpbacks. Board a tour boat to have a closer view of these amazing animals. The stunning cliffs and other natural features enhance the experience significantly. Get stunning shots of whales breaking the waters and enjoying their time freely.

Festivals and Events to Attend in New Zealand in June

Matariki Festival
Queenstown Winter Festival
Christchurch Arts Festival

1. Matariki Festival

Visit the Matariki Festival to experience Māori New Year celebrations. Attend lively performances showcasing folk music, dance, and oral histories. Experience stargazing and cultural activities with the locals. The festival also celebrates Māori culture and the unity of the community. Welcome to explore the combination of traditions and new year celebrations in a friendly setting.

Also Read: Discover the underwater wonders – Best spots to go snorkelling in New Zealand

2. Queenstown Winter Festival

Experience the fun-packed winter festival in Queenstown. Listen and dance to live music; watch comedy shows and street performances. Enjoy winter games, winter carnivals, or winter sporting events. Get involved in activities like the dog derby. The atmosphere is full of life during the festival, and the natural scenery of the location contributes to the beauty of the experience. Wear your best outfits and dance the night away in celebration of winter.

3. Christchurch Arts Festival

Experience the carnival of creativity at the Christchurch Arts Festival. Watch plays, ballet, opera, or any kind of performance that catches the audience’s attention. Discover art galleries and painting classes. It attracts different artists and performers from within the country and other parts of the world. Take in the beauty of Christchurch’s arts and culture at this mesmerizing event.

Cost for a trip to New Zealand in June

Are you considering heading to New Zealand in June? Prepare yourself for an adventure! Expect expenses to range between INR 150,000 and INR 200,000 per person. This includes airfare, which typically costs INR 60,000. There are cosy hostels that cost INR 2,500 per night and luxurious resorts that cost INR 15,000. Meals might cost anything from INR 1,500 to INR 5,000 per day. Renting a car or using public transportation could cost you between INR 20,000 and INR 30,000 for transportation. Skiing, glacier treks, and cultural activities add to the excitement, with prices ranging from INR 10,000 to INR 20,000. Don’t forget to budget for shopping and souvenirs. Enjoy an amazing winter holiday in New Zealand without going over budget with proper planning!

What to Pack for your vacation to New Zealand in June

Going to be in New Zealand in June? Pack smartly for winter fun! Start with layers that are warm, such as cosy sweaters, waterproof coats, and thermal tops. Remember to pack a hat, gloves, and scarf to keep warm. Bring water-resistant footwear for rainy days and strong hiking boots for paths covered with snow. Bring swimwear if you plan to visit thermal pools and hot springs. Wearing sunglasses is a must on warm and sunny days. Bring travel-sized toiletries and a high-quality camera to capture breathtaking scenery. If you plan to go skiing or snowboarding, bring your own equipment or rent it nearby. Finally, remember to bring your travel documentation and any necessary prescription medications. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to embrace New Zealand’s winter paradise and cherish every moment of your experience!

Ideal New Zealand in June itinerary

New Zealand Solo Travel Itinerary: Enjoy the tranquility of traveling to this magnificent land all by yourself with a fun solo travel package!
14-Day New Zealand Itinerary: Looking for a long vacation in New Zealand? Check out this amazing itinerary perfect for your international getaway.
New Zealand Honeymoon Itinerary: 10 Days: Pick this romantic honeymoon package from Pickyourtrail and set off on the most alluring trip with your significant other.

FAQ’s for New Zealand in June vacation!

Is June a good time to visit New Zealand?

A trip to New Zealand is highly recommended in June. It’s the beginning of winter, which means fewer crowds and reduced costs. Take pleasure in South Island skiing and snowboarding. Adventures outside are ideal because of the cool, fresh weather. June offers a relaxing and picturesque holiday experience.

What is the temperature in New Zealand in June?

New Zealand’s June temperatures differ from region to region. The South Island experiences 0–10°C, whereas the North Island experiences 10–16°C. Wintertime activities are best enjoyed in temperate weather.

What to do in New Zealand in June?

Go skiing and snowboarding in New Zealand in June to take in the cold weather. Experience local events, go on adventures through green forests, and visit geothermal sites. Admire the gorgeous scenery and tranquil travel season. The milder temperatures make for ideal indoor activities and exploring the distinctive winter landscape.