Smalley

We are in the process of planning our 2nd trip to Australia in 2005, including NZ Northern Island this time.We would like to visit the Cairns area (5-6 days), NZ (12 days), Melbourne/Aidelade area (7 days), Tasmania (7 days). Which would be better march or september? We love walking,nature and wildlife, no diving/snorkelling. We are in our early fifties. Any ideas and/or advice will be very welcome. Hope to hear from you all, Marijke

Jane_47

Think I would go September for Cairns but March for New Zealand and Tassie.

So come twice !

Still not much difference I guess, both shoulder seasons.

pat_woolford

Smalley - September for Cairns - there is a chance of heavy rain in March as it's still in "wet" season. September is lovely, particularly for wildlife - everything's having babies. It's the time birdwatchers flock (no pun intended) here from all over the world. Weather is great too - sunny days with little humidity.

Smalley

Jane, it certainly would be wonderful to come in march and september, but...
Pat, looks like september is the best choice for the Cairns area, which I really want to include. What is April like? Thank you both.

pat_woolford

Smalley - April is usually drier than March, but this year due to a late wet season it rained nearly every day. But the two years before it barely rained at all in both months. so how do you know? There is a slight chance of cyclone (hurricane) in either month. Old-timers are now predicting cyclones this coming wet season - apparently the extra long stalks on the mango tree outside the Courthouse Pub in Port Douglas are a definite sign! One thing's for sure it's "warm" rain and sometimes it may only rain for an hour or so in the afternoon and at night. Of course, the rainforest is at its best at this time with masses of water in falls and rivers.

Smalley

Isn't it wonderful how some people know what is ahead just by watching nature. Thanks Pat, maybe we'll have to have two seperate holidays.