The ideal time depends on what type of adventure you’re looking for. Ski enthusiasts will want to visit New Zealand in winter to hit the slopes, whereas hikers, walkers and explorers will love the temperate conditions of Autumn and Spring. Summer brings days of blue skies, perfect for sailing, kayaking and other water-based activities.

Like many holiday destinations, New Zealand can be as expensive or as cheap as you make it. When on the ground, it is around the same cost as travelling in Australia, but the high season may make accommodation and travel a little more expensive. To avoid this, aim to visit in the shoulder season – for the winter, this is outside of school holidays, while for the summer, this is March-May and September-November.