No longer being high season, visitors are less likely to encounter busy crowds and can often take advantage of better accommodation and car rental availability. A foodie’s paradise, it’s the perfect time to visit a vineyard, and citrus fruit and Bluff oysters are in season. For a glimpse of another world, a stargazing experience is not to be missed. Visit the many Dark Sky Reserves around New Zealand and get the best views of the galaxy. We’ve rounded up some exciting experiences in the North and South Islands which are particularly great in autumn.

Cozy cellar doors for a winery trip
Autumn is the perfect time to visit a vineyard - spot the vines full of fruit ready to be harvested, and the leaves turning beautiful shades of gold. Cozy up at one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s many cellar doors(opens in new window) and sample some top quality wine.

An abundance of in-season produce and cuisine
Food lovers rejoice! Leafy greens, citrus fruit, and shellfish (such as Bluff oysters) are ripe for the picking in autumn, so be sure to delight your tastebuds with the local, in-season cuisine. Many restaurants offer a 'farm to table' dining experience, or try traditional Māori fare(opens in new window) at a local establishment.

Relax in comfort at a luxury lodge
Experience Aotearoa New Zealand's stunning natural beauty from the comfort of a unique luxury lodge(opens in new window). These properties are often set among beautiful landscapes which are even more spectacular in autumn. Booking accommodation in the shoulder season often means better availability and off-peak rates.

Spot animals in the wild
Autumn is the migration period for many species of birds, they can be seen flocking to the eastern coasts of New Zealand. Inland, teams take to the farms to corral flocks of sheep for winter. Visit one of New Zealand's many conservation areas, animal sanctuaries or zoos(opens in new window) for your best chance at spotting some of our more elusive creatures.

Get out in nature at our National Parks
With less crowds and a temperate climate, autumn is the perfect time to visit some of New Zealand’s prized National Parks. There is something for everyone to enjoy, with a range of family-friendly short walks on easy tracks, boat trips, and multi-day adventures with overnight stays. Nine of New Zealand’s Great Walks(opens in new window) lie within the National Parks.

Head off on a scenic road trip
Travel in autumn while the roads are quiet and the daylight hours are long. Lake Pukaki is positioned at the base of the Southern Alps in Mackenzie region. Its vibrant blue hues make for a beautiful backdrop to your road trip. Head to Queenstown from Wānaka over the Crown Range. This mountainous drive is nothing short of awe-inspiring. To the west, the road to Milford Sound is almost as majestic as the Milford Sound itself. Look out for the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain, the Mirror Lakes, and the roughhewn Homer Tunnel. Before your clients get behind the wheel, we suggest they read over the basics of driving in New Zealand(opens in new window).

Capture magnificent photos with the autumn leaves
Experience the magic of autumn in New Zealand as landscapes transform into a vibrant canvas of rich colours. Changing leaves paint picturesque scenes with trees in stunning hues of oranges, reds, and yellows that will take your breath away. One of the most impressive regions to see the unique autumn colours is Central Otago (in particular Lake Wānaka, Arrowtown, Cromwell). 

Stargaze in clear autumn skies
Aotearoa New Zealand is home to five idyllic Dark Sky Reserves and Sanctuaries. The crisp and clear autumn night skies provide the perfect opportunity for a world-class stargazing and astronomy experience. Visit this list(opens in new window) for a range of operators offering otherworldly experiences.