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Tuesday, August 05, 2025
Spring (September to November) in Aotearoa New Zealand brings longer days, blooming landscapes and clear skies, perfect for exploring with fewer crowds and a temperate climate. Average temperatures range from 16 - 19°C (60 - 66°F), with vibrant scenery, playful newborn animals, and lakes and waterfalls at their most spectacular. It is an ideal season for water activities, hiking the Great Walks and enjoying colourful spring festivals.
In this edition, discover celestial stays, exclusive wildlife encounters and magical new glow-worm experiences that immerse your clients in New Zealand’s iconic nature, wildlife and hospitality.
Discover one of New Zealand’s most inspiring regenerative retreats, set within the newly designated International Dark Sky Sanctuary and offering immersive stargazing packages.
Stargazing meets sustainability in Glenorchy’s newly designated International Dark Sky Sanctuary. The multi-award-winning regenerative Headwaters Eco Lodge now hosts two immersive celestial packages: ‘Stories and Stars’, a family-friendly night under the sky with mulled wine, or hot chocolate and marshmallows, and ‘Savour the Stars’, a romantic evening with telescope viewing and a gourmet dinner. With storytelling guided by local astronomy enthusiasts and panoramic alpine views. Bookings for stargazing packages are essential.
Planning Tip: Nestled at the head of Lake Whakatipu, in Glenorchy, the Sanctuary offers easy access to iconic tracks like the Routeburn, Greenstone-Caples, and Rees-Dart.
Stars shine brightly above The Headwaters Eco Lodge
This spring, connect your clients with extraordinary new ways to explore New Zealand, from intimate kiwi conservation encounters and glow-worm adventures in Rotorua to alpine hikes and heli-jet journeys in Glenorchy. These immersive experiences offer meaningful connections to nature, wildlife, and culture.
Ngutu Roa is a new 90-minute behind-the-scenes experience at the Kiwi Hatchery, Rotorua and is exclusive to trade. Guests access staff only areas, sponsor and name a kiwi chick, and receive updates post release. With a maximum of four guests (six on request), daily sessions at 10 am and 12 pm include Agrodome transfers. 100% of proceeds support kiwi recovery. This intimate experience offers a unique, meaningful connection to New Zealand’s wildlife and culture.
Planning tip: Kiwi hatching season is a great time to visit this experience from September to March. It is recommended for guests to arrive at the Agrodome 15 minutes early for inclusive transfers and to connect with their guide.
Kiwi chick, National Kiwi Hatchery
Rotorua’s iconic Redwoods Treewalk is about to become even more magical. A new $2 million glow-worm cave is under construction and due to open in October 2025. This man-made cave will deliver safe, accessible, and immersive glow-worm viewing - day or night.
Planning tip: Recommend combining this experience with the Redwoods Treewalk and Nightlights tours for a seamless day-to-night adventure that showcases Rotorua’s unique natural beauty. Early bookings are advised during school holidays and shoulder seasons.
Redwoods Glow-worm experience
Recently launched this magical mix of adventure and relaxation, your clients start with Taiao Adventures’ glow-worm kayak tour, at twilight and end their night soaking in Rotorua’s famed Polynesian Spa, with access to the Deluxe Lake Spa. This combo connects soft adventure with indulgent wellness and showcases Rotorua's nature and geothermal heritage in one seamless package.
Planning Tip: The combo can be booked with Taiao Adventures. Recommend clients pack warm layers and allow time between experiences for dinner. A perfect day-to-night itinerary for couples or active relaxers.
Glow & Soak Combo – Taiao Adventures + Polynesian Spa
Introducing a new full day wilderness journey from Queenstown. Clients will travel by private vehicle to Glenorchy, then soar by helicopter over Lake Wakatipu and into the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park. A guided alpine hike through Earnslaw Burn reveals towering waterfalls and native flora, followed by an exhilarating Dart River jet boat journey through glacier-fed waters. With a gourmet lunch at Miss Woolly’s and expert local storytelling throughout, this premium small group tour is a bucket-list contender for clients seeking a truly unforgettable day.
Planning Tip: Combining multiple transport modes and remote terrain, this experience is ideal for active travellers comfortable with moderate physical activity. Suggest clients bring a day pack, sun protection, layer clothing and sturdy footwear. Private charters can include custom stops or photography sessions.
Paradise Wilderness Experience, Alpine Luxury Tours
Looking for more inspiration to help curate some new and exciting itineraries this season? Check out previous editions of our 'What’s New In New Zealand' article for a collection of new eco-accommodation and exciting experiences from around the motu (country)