New Zealand in July
 

Hello; <BR>My wife and I are planning a trip to NZ during the 2nd half of July for two weeks. <BR>We will be flying into Auckland from the U.S. <BR> <BR>We would like to experience the real NZ and not the regular tourist areas. We are trying to come up with an itenarary that will allow us to maximize our visit. Any advise on weather, transportation (rent a car or rely on trains/coaches), accomodations etc. will be greatly appreciated. Also is July a good time to loop around the South island either by car or public transportation ? <BR> <BR>Thanks <BR> <BR>Sach

I wouldn't advise going to NZ in Winter. <BR>It rains non-stop for days on end, the wind can be fierce and it's awful cold at times.

July can have some sunny days but they are colder days as all the heat-such as it is-escapes into the atmosphere more easily instead of being trapped under the clouds. <BR>It'd be something like visiting Coastal Washington state in December/January bound to be wet,windy&wild & bone-chilling cold.

Hi Sach, <BR>July is winter time in NZ but don't let that put you off. We get our fair share of rotten weather like everyone else but winter is one of my favorite times. Sure, you won't be wanting to go swimming but we have our fair share of sunny days when you will be comfortable in a t-shirt or light shirt during the day. <BR>Renting a car would be the easiest way to travel NZ, as that way you are free to go where 'the whim takes you'.If you are from the U.S. you will be able to live well as the exchange rate is in your favour....US $1 = NZ 40 cents. <BR>The Sth Island will be at it's most spectacular at that time of year, the roads are two lane highways which NZers are extremely used to driving on and do tend to travel quite fast but you just go at your own pace and they will pass when possible. <BR>Accomodation should'nt be a problem as NZ is right on the world tourist map and even the smallest of towns has a motel or 'pub' with rooms to let.Most places are good quality at economy prices (based on US prices) <BR>I'm sure you will have a wonderful time and the real NZ is everywhere, maybe Queenstown is the exception?

It has been a few years but we visited the North Island of New Zealand in July and had "wonderful" weather. Suppose the definition of "wonderful" depends on whether you are coming from Florida or (as we did) from Chicago (we find the 60's pretty balmy for winter weather here). Yes, you pack sweatshirts rather than Tshirts and it may be wise to carry an umbrella though we never saw a drop of rain. Maybe we just got lucky. We will return in 2002 and I am opting for a March/April trip this time but certainly NOT their summer months (too hot for this northerner!!)

Hi Sach, <BR> <BR>I am returning to NZ in July after 2 years away, and although it will be winter I am looking forward to all the great 'wintery' things to do. The South Island really is spectacular in the winter - especially around the Queenstown / Milford Sound area. Although it is winter the sun comes out most days and provides very clear, crisp days to enjoy your sightseeing. Up North, around Auckland, it is a sub-tropical climate (quite different to South Island) so whilst it is warmer, it tends to rain in those months (but is not cold). If you visit Christchurch, I would highly recommend a visit 1.5 hours north to Hanmer Springs Alpine Reserve which is fantastic in winter. Natural hot springs to soak in, nestled amongst a mountainous terrain. Alternatively, go a little further to Maruia Springs which is even more beautiful and less touristy. Both are a great experience if it is snowing and are easily done in a day trip. It is a very scenic drive up too. Likewise, venture up to one of the many ski fields (1 hour from Christchurch or even less from Queestown or Wanaka). Have a look at http://www.nzski.com for details. <BR>The south island is a bit like Switzerland - stunning/magical in winter but even busier in summer. Certainly don't let the weather put you off. Have a look at http://www.purenz.com for a few other itinerary ideas. Have a great time!