Best Time to Visit Australia and New Zealand

The best time to visit Australia and New Zealand for great weather is from September to November and March to May. September to November is spring in the Southern Hemisphere, while March to May is fall.

These months offer comfortable weather conditions across Australia and New Zealand, giving you the best opportunities to visit the Great Barrier Reef or discover Uluru in Australia, as well as visit the shire in Hobbiton or sail Milford Sound when in New Zealand.

The best time to visit Australia and New Zealand as a family with children of all ages is in the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and fall, specifically from September to November or March to May, respectively.

When visiting the heart of the Southern Hemisphere’s summer from December to February, you may encounter the rainy season, jellyfish season, or the harsh heat of the Red Centre in Australia, while winter in New Zealand may not give you access to its remote corners. If you have children in school, late May and early June can give you the best opportunity to enjoy the variety of seasons and experiences across Australia.

Your family trip in spring and fall will provide much more comfortable weather in which to discover the depths of the countries.

Learn more: Australia Family Vacations • New Zealand Family Itineraries

March to May are the best months to visit Australia and New Zealand to avoid the crowds. The summer tourists have left and the winter season has not yet set in. The heat in Australia becomes manageable and New Zealand remains comfortably warm.

These months offer the perfect weather conditions for all types of travelers, whether they prefer wine tasting or surfing, visiting the big cities or fjords, exploring desert landscapes or the Great Barrier Reef.

No matter what kind of experience you wish to have, the Southern Hemisphere’s fall is a good season to get the best from both New Zealand and Australia.

The best time to visit Australia and New Zealand for a couples’ getaway is in October and November or March and April.

These months represent the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and fall to provide you with the best weather conditions, as well as smaller crowds, whether in Australia’s desert landscape or the islands of New Zealand.

For a romantic escape you can embrace remote seaside towns, explore dramatic fjords, or sip wine in famous vineyards in both countries, as you discover the benefits of traveling during shoulder season.

Learn more: Australia Honeymoon Packages • New Zealand Honeymoon Packages

Australia and New Zealand are awe-inspiring destinations that highlight the world’s natural wonder, no matter the season. Whether eager to trek a remote desert or enjoy the beauty of winter, the landscape and contemporary culture are reflected in sensational scenery.

Depending on the experience you want, both countries are best enjoyed during fall and spring, when the weather is more predictable and the deepest reaches are more accessible. Find inspiration for your trip with our handcrafted Australia & New Zealand tours or by visiting our Australia & New Zealand travel guide.