september weather/packing
 

we are travelling for three weeks in Sept- from Bay of Islands down to Queenstown/Milford Sound. I am trying to figure out what to pack. Any advice about weather we can expect, and what kind of clothes (particularly outer wear) we need. Also, do we need to bring bug repellent, and if so, any recommendations. Thank you very much.

i should have specified- this query is for New Zealand!

anything specific query about new zealand... maybe i could help with that.. i could advice you regarding traveling in new zeland... it would be great if try traveling outdoors of new zealand... it is a great experience... if you want i could post site that could help you...

Cathy,

You don't say where you're travelling FROM, so it's hard to advise you because we don't know what type of weather you're used to (as in: I'm from Minnesota, and used to cold weather, and go out in 20 degrees with a t-shirt on)! :)

That said, I'm a packing genius. Yes, it's true..every year I say I'm going to do a "Smart Packing" seminar at the local college, but I never seem to get around to doing it!

The key is to LAYER and look for clothes that do "double duty" - i.e., pack a blouse and use it for a "jacket" as well. Pack a sweater (preferably black) that you can use for both a top and an undergarmet beneath a raincoat if necessary. NZ is casual so pack accordingly. (unless you plan on fancy schmancy dinner in top restaurants, and even then, a pair of black pants and a nice sweater will do).

Bug repellent - yes, you'll need it if you plan to be anywhere need water.

Hope this is helpful!

Regards,

Melodie
Certified Kiwi Specialist

Hi Cathy

Melodie's advice about layers is very good. My wife and I with the kids, were in Queenstown a fortnight ago and that layering became very useful. The days started out cold and warmed up to a stage that I was stripped down to T shirt and jeans while walking around the lake. (Even in August it was an unseasonable 15 degrees during the day)

As you are covering a fair distance you may feel the need to pack alot, I would suggest you avoid this by aiming for accomodation with laundry facilities. Most all motels in NZ have laundries so you can save on the packing by cleaning up as you go.

In the North (Bay of Islands) in September temps can get up to the low 20's (Celcius) in Milford you can be hovering around zero. Chances are, as it is spring, that it will be wet. Pack at least a rain jacket, though not too heavy a one. Also a good thing to throw in (Or pick up at a store here) is a compact umbrella. They turn out to be mighty useful on showery days.

Bug repellent is a must for the lakes of the South Island and expecially on the West Coast of the South Island. Most all convenience stores (Called dairies here) sell bug repellent. I find "Off" in the orange can is the best here, also easy to apply. Others may have other brands they favour.

Also as Melodie noted, NZ is a fairly casual place and unless you are going silver service tidy jeans and a decent top/shirt are adequate for most eateries.

Hi, Cathy. I agree with the "layers" and "casual" advice. One thing that can become an issue in the South Island at this time of year is the cold wind. A light, wind-proof jacket to wear over a warmer sweater would be a good idea.