For a tourist, New Zealand in February is simply every traveler’s dream. Everyone wants to travel in comfortable weather, witness great art and cultural festivals or do both. This is why New Zealand is usually one of the best destinations for travel as it caters to every type of traveler and has something for everyone!
In this guide, you will learn all about what to do during your vacation in New Zealand in February including weather, activities, what to wear, and how to plan a trip!
- Is February a Good Time to Visit New Zealand?
- New Zealand Weather Guide for February
- Cultural Experiences in New Zealand
- Festivals and Celebrations in February
- Top Things to Do in New Zealand in February
- What to Pack for February in New Zealand
- Average Cost of a Trip to New Zealand
- Why Choose OneVasco?
- FAQs
Is February a Good Time to Visit New Zealand?
Absolutely! It is the best time to visit New Zealand in February. The peak summer season is still on, and the weather is perfect for traveling, nature drives, and beach lovers.
Be prepared to work more hours of daylight with lots of sunshine, which is excellent for sightseeing.
New Zealand Weather Guide for February
Here is the New Zealand weather guide for February –
|
Weather Elements |
Details |
|
Humidity |
Moderate, comfortable for outdoor activities. |
|
Temperature |
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day; 15°C (59°F) at night. |
|
Chances of Rainfall |
Minimal, with light precipitation mainly at night. |
|
Average Precipitation |
50mm to 70mm, depending on the region. |
|
Number of Rainy Days |
5 to 7 rainy days, short and refreshing. |
Cultural Experiences in New Zealand
Maori Culture
Immerse yourself in the February New Zealand culture and learn about New Zealand’s rich Maori heritage, particularly in Rotorua.
See a Maori dance and hear some legends; besides that, taste the traditional ‘hangi’ food that is cooked in the ground. This is a good chance to plunge into New Zealand Maori history, culture, and traditions!
Key Highlights:
- See the real dance moves of the haka (traditional Maori dance).
- Engage in cultural activities like carving on wood and weaving.
- Enjoy a hangi meal, which is food that is cooked using heated stones.
Historic Sites
The Treaty of Waitangi is a significant event in New Zealand‘s history. Visit the museum and cultural center to learn about New Zealand, especially the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and its scenes.
Key Highlights:
- Take a tour of the Treaty House and understand where the treaty was signed.
- See cultural dances in the Maori carved meeting house.
- Visit the Museum of Waitangi and check out the te reo Maori interactive installations.
Local Markets
Discover the focus on the markets and see New Zealand’s young cities, such as Auckland or Christchurch, where you can buy fresh and exotic food, handmade souvenirs, and various curiosities.
These markets are exciting because they provide a snapshot of New Zealand’s typical character and local idiosyncrasies.
Key Highlights:
- Shop for fruits and baked products at the Christchurch Farmers’ Market.
- Visit Auckland’s La Cigale French Market to buy handmade jewelry, art, and gifts for yourself and your loved ones.
- Try some of the local foods, such as cheese and honey. Special products include artisan cheese and Manuka honey.
Festivals and Celebrations in February
Festivals and celebrations in New Zealand in February are among the best things to explore. These festivals range from celebrating a historical milestone to celebrating culture and the arts to celebrating entertainment, and each has a special appeal to everyone.
Waitangi Day (February 6)
It is an annual public holiday in New Zealand that commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. At this time of year, people take time off work to reflect on events and the country’s history or celebrate.
Opening Hours:
- Most events begin early in the day (8:00 AM onwards), with ceremonies at the Treaty Grounds starting around 9:00 AM.
- Festivities typically run throughout the day until evening (5:00 PM to 6:00 PM).
Location:
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Paihia, Northland, New Zealand.
How to Get There:
- By car: Drive from Auckland (approx. 3 hours) via State Highway 1 to Paihia.
- By bus: Regular bus services operate from Auckland and Whangarei to Paihia.
- By ferry: From Paihia’s wharf, ferries regularly cross the Bay of Islands.
What to Do:
- Watch cultural performances and traditional Māori ceremonies at Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
- Explore live music, art exhibits, and community festivals happening nationwide to celebrate New Zealand’s history.
- Participate in educational talks and reenactments of the treaty’s signing to understand the country’s foundational moments.
- Take time for reflection at historical sites to honor the cultural significance of this day.
Art Deco Festival in Napier
Napier was transformed into an attractive city in the 1930s during the Art Deco Festival. This event revived the city’s architectural design with vintage glamour and charm.
Opening Hours:
- The festival typically runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with evening events like jazz performances starting around 7:00 PM.
- Events may run throughout the weekend, with some outdoor activities extending into the evening.
Location:
- Napier, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand.
How to Get There:
- By car: Napier is about a 4-hour drive from Wellington via State Highway 2 or 3.
- By bus: Intercity buses travel regularly between Wellington, Hastings, and Napier.
- By air: Napier has an airport with regular flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
What to Do:
- Experience parades featuring vintage cars and glamorous costumes from the 1930s.
- Swing dance under the stars while enjoying live jazz performances that transport you back in time.
- Join guided tours to discover Napier’s iconic Art Deco buildings and the city’s transformation during the 1930s.
- Visit museums and galleries to appreciate the city’s vintage architecture and design.
New Zealand Fringe Festival
The New Zealand Fringe Festival, Wellington’s creative party, takes place annually. It includes features of theatre, comedy, music, and modern art performances.
Opening Hours:
- Events typically run from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with some late-night shows and after-parties.
- The festival spans about 2-3 weeks, with events hosted daily.
Location:
- Wellington, New Zealand, across various venues including theatres, galleries, and pop-up locations.
How to Get There:
- By car: Wellington is easily accessible via State Highway 1 from both the north and south of the country.
- By bus: Wellington is well-connected with intercity buses from cities like Auckland, Christchurch, and Napier.
- By train: Wellington has a train station with services connecting to cities like Palmerston North.
What to Do:
- Attend performances by local and international artists in theatre, comedy, music, and dance.
- Engage with immersive and experimental art installations that challenge your creative perceptions.
- Discover affordable or free shows, making the festival accessible to all age groups and tastes.
- Participate in creative workshops and after-parties to connect with fellow art lovers and performers.
Top Things to Do in New Zealand in February
New Zealand offers natural beauty, adventure activities, and calm sandy beaches that come into view in February. In this sunny and vibrant month, you can get the best activities in New Zealand in February, from heart-pounding adventures to peaceful escapes.
Explore Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park simply must be listed. It has mountains and cliffs, huge waterfalls, fjords, especially the Milford Sound. It is ideal for trekking, sailing, or spending time admiring the untouched wilderness.
Key Highlights:
- Go on a boat ride through the Milford Sound, which is dubbed ‘the eighth wonder of the world.’
- Trek the beautiful Routeburn Track for the stunning views of Mounts Aspiring, Erick, and Armstrong, plus more.
- Meet Doubtful Sound, the other less explored and less crowded fjord.
Hobbiton Movie Set
Go to Matamata to witness The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie’s magic at the Hobbiton Movie Set. This is a place that will make you travel to Middle-earth with different hobbit houses and attractive greens.
Key Highlights:
- Visit the Hobbit set and hear the stories that are behind it. Enjoy a guided tour of the set.
- The Green Dragon Inn offers a themed drink.
- Astonishingly, the Hobbit homes are as beautiful and detailed as described in the books, and the countryside is super cute, too.
Relax on the Beaches
New Zealand beaches look great in February: sun, sand, and sea complemented by great views. Your days can be occupied with swimming, sunbathing, water sports, or simply anything that requires water.
Key Highlights:
- Go to Mount Maunganui, which has excellent waves for surfing and beautiful tracks for walking.
- Discover the Abel Tasman National Park for nice, lonely beaches and kayaking.
Go Wine Tasting
If you want to know what to do in New Zealand in February? Then, you can’t miss wine tasting. New Zealand is best known for its wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc. Of course, it is always a wonderful idea to visit the vineyards and take wine-tasting tours in February.
Key Highlights:
- Marlborough is the place to learn more about the sunny New Zealand vineyards that produce the best wines.
- Visit Hawke’s Bay. It is one of the oldest wine regions, and its specialties are Chardonnay and Merlot wines.
- Accompany your wine tasting with gourmet food from your local region for a whole experience.
Make sure your photographs meet the New Zealand visa photo requirements, as this is a common reason for delays or rejections.
Adventure Sports in Queenstown
Queenstown is the symbol of New Zealand, and tourists can try many extreme activities. The natural scenery around the site makes this experience even more exciting.
Key Highlights:
- Experience bungee jumping at the Kawarau Bridge, the world’s first commercial bungee site.
- Go jet boating on the Shotover River for a high-speed water adventure.
- Try tandem skydiving for spectacular aerial views of the Southern Alps.
Stargazing at Aoraki Mackenzie
Aoraki Mackenzie is one of the most beautiful astronomy destinations in the world. It frequently has clear conditions and is a dark sky reserve. Spend the night there and watch the stars and other celestial objects in the sky.
Key Highlights:
- Enjoy guided stargazing tours with expert astronomers.
- Spot iconic constellations like the Southern Cross and Milky Way.
- Visit the Mount John Observatory for a closer look at the stars and planets.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Strike new grounds at Waitomo Glowworm Caves that impose the train rides with the soft blue light from glowworms. The caves can be explored using a guided boat ride; this is one of the most amazing experiences for everyone!
Key Highlights:
- Glide silently through the glowworm-lit caves.
- Learn about the geology and history of this fascinating natural wonder.
- Perfect for a serene and unique adventure.
Before planning your February trip to New Zealand, ensure you’re familiar with the visa requirements and have all the necessary documents in order. It’s also helpful to check your visa status online to stay updated on your application progress.
Abel Tasman National Park
It is a coastal region with great sandy beaches, clear waters, and forest land. Abel Tasman National Park is perfect for boating, trekking, and bird watching, which makes it a perfect location for February.
Key Highlights:
- Hike the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
- Kayak along the coastline to explore hidden coves.
- Spot seals, dolphins, and native birds in their natural habitat
Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands, a beautiful sailing destination consisting of over 144 islands, is among the Tourist spots in New Zealand in February. It is accustomed to crystal clear water and colorful fish, delighting sea and beach lovers.
Key Highlights:
- Go sailing, fishing, or dolphin-watching tours.
- Visit historic sites like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
- Relax on the sandy beaches or snorkel in the clear waters.
What to Pack for February in New Zealand
What you pack forNew Zealand in February depends on the kind of experience you wish to have during your trip. Here is a comprehensive guide based on certain requirements –
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Category |
What to Pack |
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Clothing |
For Men –
For Women –
For Children –
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Accessories |
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Electronics |
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Documents |
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Other Essentials |
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Average Cost of a Trip to New Zealand
Planning a trip to New Zealand involves considering various expenses such as flights, accommodations, transportation, and activities. Budgeting ahead ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience.
|
Day |
Destination |
Activity |
Details |
Accommodation |
Cost in INR |
|
Day 1 |
Auckland |
Arrival and Relaxation |
– Arrive in Auckland (via flight from India) – Rest and adjust to the time zone – Explore Viaduct Harbour for an easy stroll by the water |
Budget Hotel |
₹5,000 – ₹7,000 |
|
Day 2 |
Auckland |
Explore Auckland |
– Visit the Sky Tower (view Auckland from above) – Auckland War Memorial Museum for Maori history – Stroll through Auckland Domain & Wintergarden |
Budget Hotel |
₹7,000 – ₹10,000 |
|
Day 3 |
Rotorua |
Travel & Experience Māori Culture |
– Drive to Rotorua (approx. 3 hrs) – Visit Te Puia for geothermal activity & Māori performances – Enjoy a Māori cultural dinner (Hāngi) |
Mid-range hotel |
₹10,000 – ₹12,000 |
|
Day 4 |
Rotorua |
Geothermal & Adventure Activities |
– Explore Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland – Try zorbing or go white-water rafting at the Rotorua Lakes |
Mid-range hotel |
₹10,000 – ₹12,000 |
|
Day 5 |
Napier |
Art Deco Festival & Local Attractions |
– Drive to Napier (approx. 4 hrs) – Attend Art Deco Festival (Vintage car parade, jazz performances) – Explore Napier’s historic architecture |
Boutique hotel |
₹10,000 – ₹12,000 |
|
Day 6 |
Wellington |
New Zealand Fringe Festival |
– Drive to Wellington (approx. 4 hrs) – Attend theatre and music performances at the Fringe Festival – Explore the Te Papa Museum and waterfront |
Mid-range hotel |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
|
Day 7 |
Wellington |
Explore More of Wellington & Departure |
– Visit Zealandia (wildlife sanctuary) – Enjoy the cable car and botanical gardens – Fly back to India |
Mid-range hotel |
₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
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FAQs
What are the best things to do in New Zealand in February?
February is perfect for exploring New Zealand’s beaches like Abel Tasman and Mount Maunganui, where you can relax and enjoy water sports. Wine enthusiasts can tour Marlborough’s vineyards, while adventure lovers can indulge in activities like bungee jumping and skydiving in Queenstown.
Is New Zealand cold in February?
No, February in New Zealand is warm, and the weather is relatively hot and quite good. The daytime temperature is usually between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for touring and other outdoor activities.
What can I wear in New Zealand in February?
T-shirts, shorts, and other lightweight dresses should be worn during the day. However, it is worth taking a lightweight jacket or a pullover for a night, for example, if you are in Queenstown or on a stargazing tour.
Is New Zealand expensive to visit in February?
Yes, February is the peak tourist season in New Zealand, and this makes accommodation and activities more costly.
How safe is New Zealand?
New Zealand is one of the safest countries globally, characterized by free violence and a welcoming atmosphere.
