Weather in New Zealand in March

As summer transitions into fall, the weather in New Zealand in March is still mild, especially in the North Island. The South Island begins to cool slightly with crisper mornings and golden light, which is perfect for photography. Rain becomes a bit more frequent but is unlikely to inconvenience anything. Hiking in places like Abel Tasman or Fiordland is especially pleasant at this time of year. It’s also the harvest season, making it a fantastic month to explore the flourishing vineyards. Overall, this month is mellow and rewarding for those travelers wanting good weather but without the high-season crowds.

New Zealand in March at a glance

New Zealand starts to cool slightly in March, signaling the start of fall, but conditions are still favorable for travel, especially with thinner crowds, early fall colors beginning to paint the countryside, and quieter outdoor experiences.

• The average temperatures in March range from 52°F to 72°F (11°C to 22°C), which varies depending on the location and elevation. Rainfall is moderate in March.
• March is a prime month for hiking and nature walks, with lower humidity, fewer insects, and comfortable daytime temperatures at national parks and scenic reserves. Vineyards and orchards are at their most photogenic.
• Wildlife experiences, including whale watching in Kaikōura and penguin spotting in Otago, are excellent as marine activity increases during March.
• Travel demand starts to ease, so accommodation becomes easier to find, and prices for car rentals and tours may be slightly reduced.

Is March a good time to visit New Zealand?

Whether you're chasing golden light in Fiordland, kayaking along Abel Tasman’s coast, or relaxing at a lakeside lodge, March is a great time to visit New Zealand. In fact, many consider it part of the best time to visit New Zealand. As summer fades into early fall, the weather in New Zealand in March is generally mild and reliable, making it a suitable time for both outdoor activities and cultural sightseeing. Numerous locations host festivals and events, adding a touch of culture to your schedule.

Well-known areas like Central Otago, Rotorua, and the Bay of Islands are still rather busy, but they offer a more relaxed, laid-back vibe. March is a popular month for hikers and cyclists who come to take in landscapes brushed with early fall colors. It’s also a fantastic time to weave vineyard visits into your New Zealand itinerary, with harvest season in full swing.

March marks the start of the shoulder season, meaning the tourist levels are lower, but you’re still likely to enjoy many long, sunny days. Traveling around is easy, with the roads reasonably clear. Accommodations are more available, and rates often drop compared to the peak summer months.

Average daily temperatures in March

Throughout New Zealand in March, temperatures remain pleasantly warm. Depending on the region and elevation, average daytime highs are between 68°F to 73°F (20°C to 23°C), while nighttime lows dip to 50°F to 57°F (10°C to 14°C). Inland valleys often retain summer warmth during the day but cool off quickly after sunset.

The North Island, including Auckland and the Coromandel Peninsula, still enjoys late-summer warmth, with highs around 73°F (23°C) and lows near 59°F (15°C). Humidity decreases slightly, making conditions more comfortable. Wellington is cooler and breezier, with temperatures typically between 54°F and 68°F (12°C to 20°C).

South Island cities such as Christchurch experience daytime highs of 70°F (21°C) and cooler nights averaging 50°F (10°C). Further south, Queenstown sees temperatures between 46°F and 68°F (8°C to 20°C), with crisper mornings and hints of early fall chill. 

What about the crowd and cost?

Offering nice weather, fewer lines, and more relaxed sightseeing, visiting New Zealand in March hits a good-value sweet spot between the buzz of summer and a quieter travel experience. It's also a fantastic time to explore some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, as tourist numbers gradually decrease and popular areas like Nelson, Wanaka, and Rotorua begin to feel much less busy.

As the shoulder season takes hold in fall, accommodation rates start to come down, especially towards the middle of the month. Good deals on car rentals and guided tours also become more achievable. Airfares may still reflect some peak-season pricing, but flexibility increases.

Things to Do in New Zealand in March

The weather in New Zealand in March is one of the nation’s best-kept secrets. The lingering mild temperatures and landscapes shifting into golden tones create the perfect setting for a captivating outdoor adventure. It’s an ideal time to dive into some of the best things to do in New Zealand, from scenic hikes to vineyard tours.

Hike the Routeburn Track

With the bulk of summer tourists gone, Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, is stunning in March. The alpine trails between Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks pass through mossy forests, alpine lakes, and mountain passes with sweeping views.

Visit the Catlins coast

Hugging the southeastern corner of the South Island, the Catlins’ rugged coastline boasts waterfalls, and wildlife-rich forests. March days are still long enough to discover spots like Purakaunui Falls, Nugget Point Lighthouse, and remote beaches where sea lions hang out.

Explore the Marlborough Sounds by kayak

The Marlborough Sounds consist of a maze of drowned valleys and secluded coves that are great for kayaking. Paddle past bush-covered hillsides, spot stingrays beneath the surface, and picnic at isolated beaches. Water taxis make it easy to plan point-to-point routes.

Take a scenic train ride on the TranzAlpine

The TranzAlpine train travels from Christchurch to Greymouth, crossing the Southern Alps and offering one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. The early fall light enhances the dramatic landscapes – rivers, gorges, and mountains painted in amber and gold.

Discover geothermal wonders in Taupō and Rotorua

With fewer people around, March is an excellent time to see the geysers, mud pools, and steaming vents at places like Wai-O-Tapu and Orakei Korako. Lake Taupō offers boating and trout fishing, while Rotorua provides cultural experiences alongside hot springs.

Festivals and events in New Zealand in March

The festival season stays strong in the fall with creative events, food experiences, and outdoor gatherings taking place across New Zealand in March.

• WOMAD: New Plymouth plays host to the World of Music, Arts and Dance festival, showcasing global artists performing live music and dance in a multicultural celebration of creativity.
• Balloons Over Waikato: Hamilton is the base for this magical experience, where hot air balloons fill the sky at sunrise. Additional attractions include night glow events and family zones.
• South Island Wine and Food Festival: Christchurch celebrates the South’s finest flavors with regional wines, craft beers, and cuisine served alongside chef demonstrations and live entertainment.
• Mountain Bike Festival: With world-class forest trails and competitions, this event in Rotorua draws mountain bikers from around the globe for adrenaline-fueled racing and community rides.