Located deep in the Southern Hemisphere, between the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea, New Zealand experiences four individual seasons every year. The average annual temperature hovers near 16C in the north and 10C on the South Island, the country reports around 83 days of sunshine every year, and while rainfall is high it's spread evenly across the 12 months. The months from November to April are the best time to visit for those seeking warm weather which is ideal for appreciating Mother Nature's most remarkable beauty and warm-weather activities. December to February brings the balmy days and beautiful nights of summer, ideal for water sports and hiking, while winter falls between June and August when there's nothing better to do than sit beside an open fire sipping a Marlborough red or engaging in skiing, snowboarding or après ski on mountains at the famous South Island resorts. The shoulder season of Autumn sits during March, April, and May when mornings and evenings are brisk, days promise clear blue skies, there are fewer crowds, and the landscape takes on rustic shades of amber and bronze as the leaves turn and fall. The weather begins to warm again in September, October and November when flowers bloom, farmer's fields turn a lush green after the winter rains, locals re-emerge to enjoy alfresco dining, and festivals take over towns across the country.

Yes, you may need a visa to visit New Zealand, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Travellers from many countries can enter visa-free for short stays, but must obtain a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before visiting. Those planning to stay longer, or to work or study, must apply for the appropriate visa. Check the official New Zealand immigration website for specific requirements based on nationality and travel plans, and ensure all the necessary documentation is ready before your trip to avoid any issues upon arrival.

The list of activities in New Zealand is almost as long as the inventory of sensational restaurants, cafes and bars for visitors to try during a Kiwi getaway. Explore the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park which is home to the famous Milford Sound, marvel at the geothermal wonders of Rotorua while also experiencing hot springs and Maori culture, and ride the TranzAlpine or Coastal Pacific to experience two of the world's most incredible train journeys. Adventure seekers will love Queenstown, considered the country's adrenaline capital, and visiting Hobbiton, the Lord of the Rings Movie Set for a magical Middle-earth encounter will amuse the young and young-at-heart. Vibrant Auckland guarantees big-city culture and the delightful Hauraki Gulf and Islands, located within the charming Coromandel Peninsula are within driving distance of Auckland, and travellers should linger in Wellington to visit Te Papa Museum and peaceful Zealandia.

New Zealand – known for its friendly locals and low crime rates – is a safe and welcoming destination that offers a secure environment for travellers. The country's well-maintained infrastructure, reliable public transportation, and excellent healthcare services further enhance the appeal while natural hazards like earthquakes and extreme weather are managed with sophisticated planning and efficient emergency systems.  But, as with every destination, visitors are asked to be observant and vigilant when it comes to personal safety and adopt the common-sense precautions that reduce the chance of something going wrong.

Travelling between cities in New Zealand is easy and convenient, and there are options to suit every budget and travel style. Fly with domestic airlines for quick trips between big cities and regional centres, or book a seat on a small plane to reach those out-of-the-way locations most easily accessed by air. Catch the InterCity bus for a scenic journey by road – with this network covering most destinations on the North and South islands – or rent a car for the flexibility to adapt an itinerary or pause when there's something special to see. Trains provide a relaxing way to cover the countryside, ferries are available for routes like Wellington to Picton, and Ubers are ready for short trips.

Whether you prefer the bustling city or serene landscapes, New Zealand offers comfortable and memorable stays for all preferences and budgets. Enjoy luxury hotels with world-class amenities, cosy bed and breakfasts promise a personalised stay, and affordable hostels are ideal for budget travellers. There are scenic campsites and holiday parks for nature enthusiasts, and wilderness walking huts offer a rustic or opulent option for those embarking on a multi-day hike. Experience the exceptional with an exclusive stay in a boutique lodge, explore the countryside in self-contained cottages, appreciate a beachside stay in a vacation rental, or step aboard a relaxing tourist boat for an overnight cruise.

The top packing tip for a New Zealand vacation is to ensure you pack layers in your suitcase. Four-seasons-in-one-day weather means the temperature can change in a minute, with essentials including a waterproof jacket and windproof jumper needed to keep warm and dry when it rains or turns chilly. Always carry a hat and sunscreen – the Southern Hemisphere sun will burn even in inclement weather – and comfortable shoes are mandatory. A thermal layer and beanie could be considered assets during autumn and spring, as well as winter, and swimmers are not just for summer with thermal pools and hot-water streams just as agreeable in winter as a beach dip is during the summer months. Remember a power adapter with New Zealand uses type I plugs, bring insect repellent, pack personal medications, carry a reusable water bottle, and throw in a powerpack to keep devices charged.