Weather
New Zealand's summer season, November to April, is the best time for hiking and trekking. High season for skiing is between June and August during the New Zealand winter. Rain is common at all times of the year, particularly on the western slopes of the island's high volcanoes.
When to Go
If you want to avoid the crowds, don't visit North Island during school holidays in December and early February. Many festivals and events happen during the hot months of December, January and February.
Getting There
North Island's busiest airport is in Auckland, New Zealand. You can also fly into Hamilton, Palmerston North or Wellington. Air New Zealand connects Auckland with destinations across Europe, Asia and North America.
Activities
North Island's varied landscape offers scores of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, rock climbing, skiing, water sports, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, boating and sailing. Both cities and countryside offer ample opportunities for photography and cultural exploration.
Places to Go
"Lord of the Rings" fans flock to Wellington to see where parts of the movies were filmed. Auckland and its field of volcanoes are a must see. Check out Tongariro National park, Rotorua and Lake Taupo. Visit Northland and the Bay of Islands for more scenic vistas.
Article Written By Heather Carreiro
Heather Carreiro is a certified English teacher who has been writing since 2008. The editor of Matador Abroad, her work has appeared online at BootsnAll, Matador Network, GoNOMAD, Journey Beyond Travel and Expat Women. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in linguistics and Middle Eastern studies from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and is pursuing a Master of Arts in English at Bridgewater State University.
