New Zealand is a land of contrasts, with its landscapes changing dramatically with the seasons - and some parts of the country truly come alive in the winter. 

It's an amazing time to visit if you're looking to immerse yourself in other-worldly alpine scenery and lush landscapes. There's also the added bonus of having your pick of hotels, cheaper flights and quieter roads when you avoid the summer surge. 

Here's an insider's guide on how to make the best of the winter in New Zealand -  off-grid escapes, all you need to know about hoar frosts, authentically Kiwi pie preparations, and unique winter activities - we've got them all covered!

Culinary winter warmers 

As the weather turns colder and the days get shorter, there's nothing quite like a warm and comforting meal to soothe the soul. New Zealand's winter cuisine is all about warm, hearty dishes and comfort food.

Pies are quintessentially Kiwi; these savoury treats are so well-loved that they can be found in almost every bakery, cafe and dairy (convenience store) around the country. 

Outre winter activities

With the change in weather comes the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Go beyond skiing and snowboarding and try something off-beat this season! From the thrill of snowshoeing to the challenge of ice climbing, and the natural wonders of geothermal walks, there's something for everyone.

Three incredible experiences to discover in New Zealand this winter

Matariki: This is the Māori New Year celebration, which will take place on 14th July this year. In 2022, Matariki became one of the first re-introduced indigenous public holidays in the world. It's a time of reflection, renewal, and new beginnings, marked by a series of events and festivities throughout the country. Visitors can participate in a range of Matariki events, from traditional Māori performances and storytelling to comtemporary art exhibitions and culinary experiences.

FIFA Women's World Cup 2023: This year, New Zealand will host the FIFA Women's World Cup alongside Australia. This is a unique opportunity to come down to New Zealand and witness some of the biggest names in women's sport create history in some of the best stadiums across the country.

Southern Lights: The Southern Lights, also known as the Aurora Australis, is a natural light show that occurs in the southern hemisphere. Although it's hard to predict when they will appear, they can be seen from various locations in New Zealand, including Stewart Island and the Otago Peninsula.