The Best Time to Visit the North Island: Weather, Festivals & Seasonal Travel Tips

Any time you visit New Zealand’s North Island, you’ll have geothermal wonders, golden beaches and lively cities to accompany you. But, the kind of adventure you’re after depends on the time of year you visit. With this guide, and a Thrifty rental car, you’ll have a better idea of how the seasons influence this beautiful part of the world, and an easy way of exploring it all. 

Summer (December to February)

With long, sunny days and warm temperatures (around 20–30°C), summer really makes the North Island shine. Beaches are obviously one of the drawcards, so places like the Bay of Islands, Coromandel Peninsula or Waiheke Island are worth putting on the list. In the cities, it’s the perfect time for outdoor dining. 

What’s on in summer: 

• Rhythm and Vines (Gisborne): A New Year’s music festival set against a vineyard backdrop.

• Pasifika Festival (Auckland): A vibrant celebration of Pacific Island cultures, food and art.

Thrifty Tip: Book your accommodation and car early if you’re visiting in summer—it’s a popular time and availability can be limited. 

Autumn (March to May) 

Autumn is an underrated time in the North Island. The weather’s more moderate (around 16–22°C), meaning it shouldn’t be too cold, or too hot for outdoor exploring. And, with the colourful display of autumn leaves, this makes already-scenic drives even more so—in Hawke’s Bay or the Waikato countryside. 

What’s on in autumn: 

• Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Classic (FAWC): A celebration of local produce and wine in one of NZ’s top food regions.

• Balloon Festival (Waikato): Watch colourful hot-air balloons rise over Hamilton. 

Winter (June to August)

Winter in the North Island is cold, but mild compared to many parts of the world. Cities like Auckland and Wellington stay relatively mild (5–15°C), while inland and elevated areas, like the Central Plateau around Tongariro National Park, can get much colder, often dropping below freezing overnight. Of course, that’s not always a bad thing—especialy if you’re up for some snow. Head to Mount Ruapehu for skiing and snowboarding, or check out the snow-capped Mount Taranaki (though it’s more about sightseeing than snow sports). 

What’s on in winter: 

• Matariki: The Māori New Year, marked by stargazing, cultural storytelling and community feasts. 

• Visa Wellington On a Plate: A month-long celebration of local food and drink in the capital city. 

Spring (September to November)

In Spring, the entire island comes out to play. You’ll see flowers blooming, lambs grazing, and people gradually emerging from their winter hibernation. With temperatures climbing into the mid-teens and low 20s, you’ve got a bit more freedom for outdoor time 

What’s on in Spring: 

• Taupō Ultra Marathon: If you're feeling adventurous, this event offers one of the most scenic runs in the world. 

• Taranaki Garden Festival: Showcasing the region’s most stunning private and public gardens. 

All Seasons, One Way

So, there you have it. Each season lends this land something worth visiting—the question is, what are you most excited about? Looking for mild weather and delicious produce? Spring or autumn may be on the money. Love a misty morning and a snow-dusted scenery, zip up your puffer and come here for winter. If you’re a sucker for beaches and long nights outside, summer has your name on it. The truth is, you really can’t go wrong, and you can always come back again—as people often do—to meet the island’s many personalities throughout the seasons.  

Whichever season draws you in, a Thrifty rental car is waiting. Book the right ride, at the right price, and get ready to experience the North Island at the time of year that suits your style.