Warm up this winter with a soak in the mineral-rich waters of Ngawha Springs. Photo / Supplied
Waipu Caves Farm Park – Starburst Cathedral Tour
Discover the magic of Waipu Caves this winter on a guided glow worm tour through spectacular limestone caves. After a short walk through native bush, venture underground to see world-famous glow worms lighting up the cave ceiling. With easy access paths, hand-held lights, and expert guides sharing fascinating insights, this one-hour experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into New Zealand’s natural underground wonderland.
Waipu | From $80
Footprints Waipoua – Twilight Encounter – Māori Cultural Eco Night Tour
Escape into the tranquillity of Waipoua Forest this winter and connect with the deep spiritual connection Māori share with the mighty kauri trees. Guided by local experts, hear captivating stories, legends, and humour as you journey through this sacred forest. The experience culminates in a respectful encounter with some of the oldest and largest known kauri trees, standing silently as guardians of the land through centuries of history.
Hokianga | Adult: $90; Child (5-12): $45
BAY OF PLENTY
Fernland Spa
The geothermal activity that bubbles beneath this region provides an enticing array of natural hot pools. Fernland Spa was the first to offer public thermal mineral bathing when it opened on the outskirts of Tauranga in the 1970s. Fifty years later, this hidden spot has just had a fabulous upgrade, while purposefully retaining its peaceful native bush setting as the city continues to expand nearby. Guests can soak in the new outdoor hot tubs or larger shared pool, book a private pool, enjoy an on-site massage and wellness service, and savour something from the new café. Best of all, these pure, therapeutic waters contain no chlorine.
250 Cambridge Rd, Bethlehem | Entry fees vary depending on pool or massage choice
Bay of Plenty – Fernland Spa. Photo / Bay of Plenty
Trufflewood
Winter is the perfect time to explore and dig when it’s truffle-hunting season in Paengaroa. On the surface, it’s impossible to know where the highly prized Black Périgord truffles might be hiding, but Trufflewood’s specially trained dog, Indie, always knows the way, while husband-and-wife tour guides Lance and Nikki enthusiastically explain everything there is to know about the art of truffle cultivation. There’s a sniff and taste test and the opportunity to purchase special products to gift or enjoy back home. This peaceful rural tour, near the bustling town of Te Puke, might be all you need to come back to earth.
298 Maungarangi Rd, Paengaroa | $122 per adult
Bay of Plenty – a Trufflewood tour. Photo / Bay of Plenty
ROTORUA
Aronui Matariki Drone Show 2026
Aronui Arts Festivals Matariki drone show returns to the Rotorua Lakefront with Aotearoa’s largest drone show in history, taking centre stage over Lake Rotorua July 9-11. ‘Matariki’ written by Cian Elyse White, Mataia Keepa and Anaha Hiini accompanied by Jimmy Colbert’s haunting composition, brings to life the stories of the stars through a breathtaking aerial display accompanied by a rich soundscape of taonga puoro (traditional Māori instruments), waiata and narration. Pre-show music includes concert pianist Jack Moser – a regular Eden park pre-show entertainer.
Rotorua Lakefront, 8pm | Free
TAUPŌ
Geothermal wonders and hot soaks
Cosy up in Taupō with geothermal wonders and relaxing hot soaks amidst dramatic natural beauty. Explore the steaming landscapes of New Zealand’s biggest active geothermal zone in Orakei Korako Geothermal Valley, at family-favourite Craters of the Moon, or discover hidden thermal spots by bike with FourB. Then soak in mineral-rich pools at Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa or in Otumuheke Stream at Spa Thermal Park.
Taupō | Costs vary
Wairakei Terraces, Taupō. Photo / RoadyNZ
Beyond Earth Stargazing
Gaze into Taupō’s dark skies and experience the universe like never before with Beyond Earth. Rug up under crisp winter skies as an expert guide reveals distant galaxies, constellations, planets, and Māori star stories through powerful telescopes. With clear alpine air and minimal light pollution, Taupō winters offer excellent stargazing conditions — a magical, memorable evening experience.
Taupō and surrounding areas | Pricing: Groups of 2-4 people: $199; Groups of 5 – 8 people: $249; Family Special – 2 adults with up to 4 children (8+ years): $199
Beyond Earth, Taupō. Photo / Supplied
Taupō Winter Festival
Celebrate seasonal magic at the Taupō Winter Festival — a vibrant fortnight of arts, culture, food and community fun. During the July school holidays, the festival transforms Taupō with outdoor light shows, an ice rink, live music and comedy, markets, immersive cultural experiences and family-friendly activities such as the Matariki star hunt and possum night trail run. Taupō embraces winter with energy, creativity, and lakeside atmosphere.
Taupō: various locations | July 3-19 | Some events are free, others incur a cost
RUAPEHU
Snowland at Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu
Open since May 30, Snowland at Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu is a brand-new experience for snow lovers to enjoy the winter season. This dedicated area includes sledding, tubing and snow play in a purpose-built snow zone located in Happy Valley. Special discounts are available online for the month of June with savings on the new Snowland experience – with an option to include the spectacular Sky Waka gondola.
Whakapapa, Mt Ruapehu | Prices vary
Snowland at Whakapapa Mt Ruapehu. Photo / Supplied
Tastings and a tour at Ruapehu Distillery
Enjoy the new flavours of hand-crafted spirits at Ruapehu Distillery – tucked away in the charming mountain town of Ohakune, also known as the carrot capital of New Zealand. If you’re looking for something a little different and a little bit daring, it’s the perfect time to discover Straight Up Carrot Gin – where you can taste the adventure in every sip and learn about the stories and local traditions of Ohakune’s first craft distillery.
Ohakune | $45 per person
Tasting and a tour at Ruapehu Distillery in Ohakune. Photo / Supplied
TARANAKI
Winter Fest
This year’s festival brings together an outstanding line-up of international, national and local artists across theatre, live music, comedy and a Speakeasy programme rich in storytelling. Step out of the cold, discover something new, and experience an arts festival like no other as Winter Fest lights up the season.
Across Taranaki, June 18–July 8 | Starting from $20
Hiking on Taranaki Maunga (Manganui Gorge Bridge)
Discover one of the most spectacular walking tracks in Taranaki, beginning at Plateau car park on the slopes of Taranaki Maunga. A 20-minute uphill walk leads to a stunning 100-metre suspension bridge, hanging nearly 50m above the gorge floor, beautifully decorated by Ngāti Ruanui. On a clear day, views stretch across North Taranaki and up the coastline.
Taranaki Maunga | Free
Ngati Ruanui Mountain Lodge
Epic views, epic food and there’s nowhere else quite like it. The only dining experience on Taranaki Maunga, this stunning lodge sits inside Te-papa-kura-o-Taranaki National Park with jaw-dropping maunga views as your backdrop. From morning coffee and lazy long lunches to upmarket dinners, local craft beer and decadent cakes.
Taranaki Maunga | Cost starting from $10
HAWKE’S BAY
Winter Deco Weekend
Dust off your glad rags and step back into the glamour of the 1920s and 30s for Napier’s beloved midwinter Art Deco celebration. Across three magical evenings, the city comes alive with live music, themed dining, performances and candlelit cocktails in some of Napier’s most atmospheric venues. New for 2026, the Art Deco Taste Trail lets you sip and savour your way around the city, with cafés, bars and restaurants serving 1930s-inspired dishes and classic drinks all weekend.
Napier, Hawke’s Bay | July 17–19 | Prices vary depending on event or experience
Hawke’s Bay Winter Festival. Photo / Supplied
Cosy wine tasting at Smith & Sheth Wine Studio
Settle into winter the right way with an intimate guided tasting at the Smith & Sheth Wine Studio. The one-hour Experience Heretaunga takes you on a personal journey through Hawke’s Bay’s celebrated sub-regions, led by your own sommelier, with four limited-production wines and exclusive barrel samples. Small groups of two to eight make it wonderfully relaxed, perfect for a midwinter afternoon with friends. It’s one of the region’s most special indoor-weather treats.
Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay | $90 per person
Heretaunga Studio Experience, Hawke’s Bay. Photo / Richard Brimer
WAIRARAPA
The New Zealand Festival of Christmas in Greytown
The New Zealand Festival of Christmas returns to Greytown in Wairarapa with a fresh new theme, A Very Country Christmas. Across five winter weekends, visitors can enjoy festive favourites including light-up tractors, night markets, rural games, snow and the popular Illumination Night Walk. New events for 2026 include a Winter Town & Country A&P-style Show, the Festive Balloon Glow and Bonfire, and the Ride-On Lawnmower Grand Prix. Highlights include the Big Switch Opening Night, Festive Night Glow at Molewood Orchard, Snowfall on Main Street and the Grand Finale Spectacular. Many events are free, with ticketed experiences also available.
Greytown, June 27-July 25 | Free with some ticketed events
The New Zealand Festival of Christmas in Greytown. Photo / Jet Productions
WELLINGTON
LEGO® STAR WARS™: THE EXHIBITION
In a New Zealand exclusive, LEGO® Star Wars™: The Exhibition is making its international debut at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre. Using over 8 million LEGO bricks and taking more than 25,000 hours to complete, this exhibition is a world-first experience created by Ryan “Brickman” McNaught and The Brickman team. Here you will discover life-sized models, take in interactive experiences and enjoy hands-on activities.
Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, June 27-October 26 | Adults from $35, Children from $32.50
LEGO® Star Wars™ The Exhibition 2026. Photo / Brickman
Lōemis Festival
Catch the last week of a midwinter, multi-night, multi-venue, and multi-sensory arts festival. Now in its 11th year, Lōemis has developed into a fantastical and transformative performance festival. It traverses the worlds of food, sculpture, immersive art, music, poetry, film, and more. Traditionally taking place over the winter solstice, it embraces discovery, curiosity and ritual.
Wellington City, June 9-21 | Various locations and prices
Matariki Ahi Kā
Celebrate the Māori New Year through a uniquely Wellington experience. Journey along the Wellington Waterfront accompanied by immersive projections, fire, performances, and a special nightly ceremony honouring those who have died. Two food courts will offer plenty of kai to enjoy with friends and whānau.
Wellington Waterfront, July 9-12 | Free
MARLBOROUGH
Marlborough Winter Fireplace Trail
Winter in Marlborough brings perfect blue-sky days and is a great time of year to walk or bike during the day and snuggle up in the evenings. The Marlborough iSite visitor centres have information about the region’s fireplace trail where you can cosy up with your significant other beside a crackling fire with a glass of something special.
Marlborough
Astrolabe Small Town Winery
Astrolabe Small Town Winery is an urban cellar door and wine bar located in Blenheim. It is where Astrolabe’s small batch wines are made. When you walk in, you immediately find yourself in the warm and inviting barrel room. You can purchase wine flights and delicious local food treats from the menu.
Blenheim, 2 Horton St | Cost varies
Astrolabe winery, Marlborough. Photo / Supplied
Wine + Food Experience Marlborough
A luxury space in the heart of Blenheim that welcomes both visitors to the region and locals to enjoy personalised tastings, beautiful local flavours, and relaxed moments worth lingering over. The innovative wine dispensers allow you to explore Marlborough wines sip by sip at your own pace or you can opt for a full cellar door experience with one of the knowledgeable team.
Blenheim, 42 Alfred St | Cost varies
MACKENZIE REGION
Uncrowded slopes for all abilities
Winter in the Mackenzie is all about uncrowded slopes and friendly connections with the locals. Ski fields offer terrain for everyone, from first-timers to confident skiers, with incredible views across the Mackenzie. Mt Dobson Ski Area, Ōhau Snow Fields and Roundhill Ski Area provide ample options for snow lovers. At Roundhill, Von Brown Hut is the kind of place you’ll want to linger — mulled wine, hearty meals, and spectacular views included.
Mackenzie Region
Alpine guides snowshoeing in the Mackenzie region. Photo / Mackenzie Region
Winter fun, star dust included
Set against snow-dusted mountains and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, Tekapo Springs blends winter relaxation with family fun. Spend the day between steaming hot pools, the ice-skating rink, and the snow tube park before slowing the pace with a spa treatment or yoga class. As night falls, the Soak in the Stars experience offers front-row views beneath New Zealand’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.
Lake Tekapo
Roundhill, Tekapo. Photo / Mackenzie Region
Winter done differently: Once-in-a-lifetime experiences
For a winter experience that feels worlds away from everyday life, Ski Tasman and Aoraki/Mt Cook snowshoeing deliver unforgettable alpine adventure. Intermediate skiers can carve across the vast Tasman Glacier, while guided snowshoeing trips give beginners the chance to explore snowy valleys and high-country terrain at a gentler pace. Surrounded by towering peaks and untouched snow, it’s a rare chance to experience this part of the country in its quietest, most dramatic season.
Tasman Glacier, Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park
WAITAKI
Ōamaru Penguins
Winter is prime time for one of New Zealand’s most iconic wildlife encounters. Ōamaru’s little blue penguins return from the sea each evening year-round, but the newly opened Discovery Centre adds compelling new depth — tracing the colony’s conservation story through interactive displays and storytelling for all ages. Then, as dusk falls and the crisp air settles in, the penguins waddle ashore in groups. The fading light only heightens it. A simple, quietly moving encounter that captures the rhythm of the natural world.
Ōamaru | Day entry adult: $22; child: $12. Evening viewing adults from $47-$63. Evening viewing child from $29-37.50
Ōamaru Penguins’ Discovery Centre. Photo / Supplied
Ōmārama Lodge Restaurant
Ōmārama Lodge Restaurant is a winter stop set against the landscapes of the Southern Alps. Travellers can warm up and unwind in a cosy interior, with a roaring fire and relaxed atmosphere from the alpine chill outside. The seasonal menu showcases local produce, making it an easy place to settle in after a day exploring the region’s lakes, trails or nearby ski fields. Make sure to pre-order their speciality: mānuka smoked whole Mackenzie Country salmon, served directly from their smoker. Expect generous, hearty dishes and a wine list featuring Central Otago favourites, ideal for lingering on cold winter evenings.
Ōmārama Lodge Restaurant
QUEENSTOWN
Coronet Peak Skifield
Just 20 minutes from Queenstown, Coronet Peak offers winter fun from dawn until dusk for skiers, snowboarders, sledders and sightseers. This year, the new Snow Factory guarantees early-season snow on the lower slopes from late May, with First Tracks and Night Skiing from July. Expect live DJs, mountain events and a lively après atmosphere all season.
Coronet Peak | Sightseeing from $39, Adult Day Pass $180
The Remarkables Skifield
The Remarkables Ski Area blends relaxed beginner areas with steeper chutes and playful freestyle terrain. This winter brings expanded snowmaking, upgraded park features and more access through Shadow Basin for intermediate and advanced riders. Expect regular events, live music and a laid-back mountain vibe.
The Remarkables | Sightseeing from $39, Adult Day Pass $180
The Remarkables ski field. Photo / Supplied by NZSKI
Queenstown Ice Arena
Queenstown Ice Arena is a fun indoor ice rink in the Queenstown Gardens offering casual skating, ice bumper cars, ice hockey and curling right near town. It’s relaxed, family-friendly and easy for beginners, with cosy lounge spaces, hot chocolates and music on the ice. New this winter are upgraded skates, penguin skating aids and colourful LED rink lighting.
Queenstown | Public skating; adult $26, pre-schoolers $12.50
Queenstown Ice Arena. Photo / Supplied
WĀNAKA
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Cardrona Alpine Resort offers more than 615 hectares of skiable terrain following the opening of Soho Basin, making it New Zealand’s largest ski area. With expansive beginner terrain and multiple on-mountain dining options, it’s a family favourite. Its world-class freestyle park – for both beginners and Olympians – features jumps, rails and halfpipes. Expect events, après, and a free ski bus from the base.
Cardrona Alpine Resort | Learners Pass from $99, Adult Day Pass from $184, Sightseeing $40
Treble Cone
Treble Cone is known for its long, uncrowded slopes, huge natural terrain and sweeping views over Lake Wānaka. It’s especially popular with intermediate and advanced skiers for its off-piste bowls and steeper runs, while a dedicated beginner area caters to learners. This winter includes upgraded snowmaking and improved base facilities, plus regular events and a relaxed, local alpine vibe.
Treble Cone | Adult Day Pass from $184
Snow Farm
Snow Farm is New Zealand’s only dedicated cross-country ski area, set in a peaceful high-country basin above Wānaka. It offers groomed Nordic ski trails, snowshoeing, fat biking, tubing and cosy alpine huts, making it a fun, safe option for all ages. Enjoy relaxed, uncrowded terrain and beginner-friendly loops. This winter includes expanded snowshoe trails and improved hut facilities.
Cardrona | Various activities | Prices vary
CENTRAL OTAGO
Light Up Winter
Step into a whimsical woodland as Cromwell’s Anderson Park transforms into a glowing realm of enchantment. Wander through sparkling lights, street food alleys, and captivating performances. Enjoy live music, illuminating fairies, and the ever-popular Thomas the Tank Engine ride. Warm up in the Crystal Pavilion with mulled wine or hot chocolate, admire the dazzling Light Up Your Hat creations, and be mesmerised by the sight of hundreds of lanterns silently drifting up into the night sky in the breathtaking Mass Lantern Release.
Cromwell | Free to attend. Lanterns are purchased prior to the event
Cromwell’s Light Up Winter. Photo / Cromwell and Districts Promotion Group
Maniototo Adventure Park – curling, ice skating and the Ice Luge
Set in the historic and picturesque village of Naseby, the Maniototo Adventure Park offers endless opportunities for fun and entertainment for the whole family. With the only dedicated indoor curling rink in the southern hemisphere, it offers a unique opportunity to try curling for both first-timers and seasoned veterans alike. For winter thrill-seekers, there is an expertly crafted Ice Luge which provides an exhilarating experience of speed as lugers weave through the trees. While those seeking a more tranquil experience can put on a pair of skates and glide amongst the trees – a beautiful experience not to be missed.
Naseby | Prices from $30 per adult for the Ice Luge
Curling at Maniototo Adventure Park in Naseby. Photo / Image Central
FIORDLAND
Ata Whenua – Shadowland screening with mulled wine
On cold winter nights, Ata Whenua – Shadowland offers a moving cinematic journey into Fiordland’s remote wilderness. Paired with a warming glass of mulled wine from next door’s Black Dog bar, the screening provides a gentle, atmospheric way to experience the region without heading into the elements. It’s ideal for couples and adults looking to slow down and connect with Fiordland’s landscapes from indoors.
Te Anau | Screening and drink included; pricing varies.
Milford or Doubtful Sound winter cruise
Winter brings fewer crowds and dramatic scenery to Milford and Doubtful Sound. Snow‑dusted peaks, heightened waterfalls and crisp air make cruising especially memorable at this time of year. Wrapping up warm on deck with a hot drink in hand, visitors can take in Fiordland’s scale and silence, making it a rewarding winter adventure for couples and nature lovers.
Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound | Cruise pricing varies: weather‑dependent.
Trips & Tramps heli‑hike to Luxmore Hut
For an unforgettable winter adventure, Trips & Tramps’ heli‑hike to Luxmore Hut combines alpine flight with guided walking. A helicopter lifts guests above snow‑capped peaks before a scenic descent on foot through mountain terrain. With expert guides and dramatic winter views, it’s a once‑in‑a‑lifetime way to experience Fiordland for confident, adventure‑minded travellers.
Te Anau | Prices starting from $795
Luxmore Hut on the Kepler Track, which is reached by helicopter on a guided tour with Trips and Tramps. Photo / Supplied
DUNEDIN
Matariki mā Puaka
Celebrate Matariki in Ōtepoti Dunedin with Matariki mā Puaka, a free, family-friendly event marking the south’s unique celebration where Puaka is of special significance. Head to Logan Park for live music, including a headline performance by Tiki Taane, alongside Māori cuisine, food trucks, immersive experiences and light installations. As night falls, two drone performances bring stories of Matariki and Puaka to life in the southern sky.
Logan Park, July 10 | FREE
Dunedin celebrating Matariki. Photo / Supplied
Tour Speight’s Brewery in its 150th year
Celebrate Speight’s 150-year anniversary and status as New Zealand’s oldest operating brewery with a guided tour and tasting. Learn the history of this iconic Dunedin and New Zealand brand and how it grew into the operation it is today. Weave between copper machines and heritage Speight’s paraphernalia before finishing with a tasting of their brews.
200 Rattray St, Central Dunedin | Adults: $45 Children: $25 Family $130
Speight’s Brewery in Dunedin. Photo / DunedinNZ
Tales from Darkest Dunedin
What better time is there than winter to trudge through Dunedin history, learning about the glory and gore of days gone by. Book a cemetery tour and meet Gregor, from Tales from Darkest Dunedin, as he uses his comprehensive historical knowledge to tell the tales of some of Dunedin’s most prominent, but now likely forgotten former residents. Stories from murder, shipwrecks and foreign wars to princes, scandals and the elite.
Various Dunedin Cemeteries | $60 Adult 16yo+, $45 Ages 10 to 15, free for children under 9yo
SOUTHLAND
Southern Sauna
Winter swimming takes on a new meaning with a luxury sauna session at Oreti Beach. Southern Sauna pairs ocean views with deep heat, letting visitors warm up, sweat it out and brave the cold air between rounds. The contrast of beach, sky and steam makes this a uniquely Southland way to embrace winter, ideal for couples and groups seeking something restorative and outdoorsy.
Oreti Beach, Invercargill | Sessions starting from $35
Southern Saunas. Photo / Supplied
Bill Richardson Transport World
When winter weather rolls in, Bill Richardson Transport World offers an impressively warm, immersive escape. Home to vast collections of classic vehicles, interactive displays and cinematic galleries, it’s an easy all‑weather experience that suits families, motoring enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. Allow plenty of time to explore indoors while still feeling connected to Southland’s inventive, hands‑on spirit.
Invercargill. Open daily | Entry fees apply
MLT Hokonui Fashion Design Awards
Winter evenings in Southland come alive during the MLT Hokonui Fashion Design Awards, one of the country’s longest‑running fashion events. Drawing emerging designers, bold creativity and regional pride, the show combines competition, performance and crowd energy. It’s a distinctly Southland winter experience, offering visitors an unexpected cultural night out while supporting new talent and local style.
Gore Town & Country Stadium: July 24-25 | Tickets go on sale July 8