Weather in New Zealand in April

As the fall temperatures cool, the weather in New Zealand in April produces stunning seasonal shades across the landscape, especially in the South Island. Arrowtown, Wanaka, and Central Otago are showstoppers with their gold and red foliage. Expect clear, calm days with chilly evenings, which are ideal conditions for hiking and road trips, particularly with fewer tourists around. While the North Island stays a bit warmer and greener, the South offers a peaceful, cinematic atmosphere. April is the shoulder season for travel, so it’s easier to find good deals on accommodation without sacrificing natural beauty.

New Zealand in April at a glance

April sits at the heart of the fall season in New Zealand. The air is fresher than in summer,  and the clear conditions provide an ideal canvas for photographs.

• April temperatures range from 46°F to 67°F (8°C to 19°C), varying according to region and altitude. The North Island remains milder, while the South Island can be chilly, especially in the mornings.
• The South Island is beautiful in April. The vibrant fall landscape peaks in Central Otago, Arrowtown, and around Lake Wānaka, offering spectacular backdrops for road trips and nature walks.
• New Zealand in April is a quieter month to travel. There are fewer tour buses and group travelers at this time, making it ideal for visiting cultural attractions, historic towns, and hiking trails. 
• Accommodation prices drop noticeably after the summer rush in April, and it’s easier to book last-minute deals for lodges, motels, and boutique stays.

Is April a good time to visit New Zealand?

With the country now deep into fall, the weather in New Zealand in April cools down to between 46°F to 67°F (8°C to 19°C). The South Island is significantly cooler, especially at night, than in the milder North Island. If you’re wondering about the best time to visit New Zealand, April is often overlooked but offers comfortable temperatures and crisp, clear days that are ideal for sightseeing. However, with shorter days and the occasional rainy spell, planning indoor and outdoor activities together works best.

Places like Arrowtown, Wanaka, and Central Otago are ablaze with shades of orange, yellow, and red, offering some of the most scenic drives and photo opportunities of the year. Hiking is still very doable on many trails, especially in the North Island, and it's a fantastic month to weave into a relaxed New Zealand itinerary.

As April marks the beginning of the off-season, crowds thin out and accommodations become more affordable, making it easier to get a good deal and experience a more relaxed pace.

Overall, April’s charm lies in its golden landscapes, peaceful ambiance, and excellent value. Whether you’re enjoying local markets, sipping wine by a vineyard firepit, or strolling through leaf-strewn trails, New Zealand in April is a beautiful time to go – just make sure to bring a light sweater.

Average daily temperatures in April

April’s gentle fall weather produces a beautiful balance of warmth during the day and refreshing evenings. The noticeably cooler temperatures average daytime highs ranging from 61°F to 68°F (16°C to 20°C), while lows fall to 43°F to 52°F (6°C to 11°C), depending on the location and elevation.

In the North Island, Auckland is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 68°F (13°C to 20°C). Further south, Wellington experiences more variability, with highs near 64°F (18°C) and cooler nights around 50°F (10°C).

The South Island sees a more dramatic shift. Christchurch typically ranges from 48°F to 66°F (9°C to 19°C), with drier, sunny days and chilly mornings. In Queenstown and Central Otago, temperatures drop further – daytime highs hover near 61°F (16°C), while overnight lows dip to 41°F (5°C), sometimes with morning frost.

What about the crowd and cost?

New Zealand in April brings a noticeable drop in tourist traffic as the country shifts further into fall. School vacations create a brief surge in local travel around mid-month, but otherwise, attractions and towns are far less crowded.

It’s also a fantastic time to explore some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, with popular regions like Queenstown and Fiordland feeling quieter and more accessible. Hiking trails, activities, and scenic spots are easier to enjoy without the summer crowds.

The cost of accommodations and tour prices continues to fall compared to summer highs, making April a budget-friendly option to visit. While Easter weekend may cause a short-term price spike, most of the month offers good value.

Things to do in New Zealand in April

The comfortable weather in New Zealand in April, golden foliage, and fewer tourists make this a wonderful month to go. From enjoying scenic drives and cultural sites to outdoor adventures, here are some things to do in New Zealand this month: 

Drive through Central Otago’s fall colors

Known for its striking scenery, Central Otago’s valleys turn a dazzling shade of gold and red in April. Beautiful river trails and historic charm may be found in towns like Clyde and Arrowtown. This is an excellent time for leisurely drives amid vineyard-dotted hillsides and alpine vistas.

Stargaze at Lake Tekapo

With clear skies and minimal light pollution, April is ideal for stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. Visit the Mount John Observatory for guided night-sky tours or simply lie back on the lakefront and admire the Milky Way. Drink hot chocolate while relaxing beneath a gorgeous southern sky on chilly evenings, while wrapped in a wool blanket.

Hike in Abel Tasman National Park

The beaches and forested trails of Abel Tasman are still accessible in April, despite the absence of visitors. Mild daytime temperatures make this a good month for hiking sections of the coastal track. Additionally, you can also take a water taxi to hidden bays and enjoy tranquil overnight stays in beachfront huts or lodges.

Relax in Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs is nestled in the mountains north of Christchurch – a tranquil retreat in the fall. Surrounded by tall pines and golden leaves, the thermal complex offers both relaxing hot mineral pools and family-friendly waterslides. It’s also a good base for short hikes and mountain biking.

Visit Napier’s art deco architecture and vineyards

April is a perfect time to explore Napier's art deco buildings without the summer rush, which glow under the soft seasonal light. Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the 1930s facades, then venture into nearby Hawke’s Bay wine country. Wineries are quieter mail-harvest, offering tastings and excellent local food in scenic settings.

Festivals and events in New Zealand in April

April begins to slow down after the summer vibrancy, but the festival calendar stays full with cultural depth, seasonal food, and art-focused events held across urban and rural settings.

• Arrowtown Fall Festival: A charming celebration of fall foliage, history, local crafts, and live performances set in a picturesque historic gold-mining town.
• NZ International Comedy Festival (Wellington/Auckland): A multi-week showcase of international comedians, including stand-up, improv, and sketch shows in theaters and bars.
• Hokitika Wildfoods Festival: An adventurous culinary event offering exotic and unusual dishes, from huhu grubs to wild venison, alongside music and themed dress-up.
• Anzac Day Services: Held nationwide on April 25, these commemorations honor New Zealand’s servicemen and women with dawn services, parades, and community remembrance across towns and cities.