When is the best time to go hiking in New Zealand?

The hiking season in New Zealand runs from November to April, with December to February being the peak summer months – the weather will be at its warmest and most stable during this time, and trails will be at their busiest. Booking is required on the Great Walks from November to April, and you can expect huts on the most popular routes to get fully booked.

Remember the weather in New Zealand’s mountains can be glorious, but it’s also notoriously fickle – don’t go hiking without appropriate warm and waterproof clothing. I made that mistake once, back in the early days – and have never done it again.