Weather in New Zealand in November

Spring is now well established across the country. The pleasant weather in New Zealand in November brings a bit of everything, from comfortable temperatures and sunshine to showers and overcast days. For travelers of all types, November is a versatile month. National parks such as Tongariro and Fiordland are awash with wildflowers, and wildlife tours that include seeing penguins, seals, and whales are popular with tourists. Especially fulfilling are road trips, vineyard tours, and scenic hikes. In many regions, it’s also festival season, adding a celebratory vibe to the blooming landscapes.

New Zealand in November at a glance

November is a lovely, pre-summer month ideal for outdoor exploration. Longer daylight hours and a landscape bursting with color make it a wonderful time to visit before the summer throngs arrive. 

• Average temperatures in New Zealand in November range from 48°F to 70°F (9°C to 21°C), with the North Island generally warmer and drier than the South.
• Vineyards and farmers' markets thrive in November, offering local produce, spring menus, and wine tasting in regions like Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay.
• National parks are lush in late spring, making it a great time for hiking tracks like Abel Tasman, Tongariro Crossing, and the Kepler.
• In places like Kaikōura, marine wildlife tours are in high demand throughout November; whales, dolphins, and seals are commonly seen in the calm spring waters.
• November remains a shoulder season month, with reasonable prices and manageable crowds, providing good value before peak summer starts in December.

Is November a good time to visit New Zealand?

November is a very rewarding time to visit, and for many, it marks one of the best times to visit New Zealand. With spring still in full bloom and the first hints of summer on the horizon, this month blends lovely weather, flourishing landscapes, and modest tourist numbers. The weather in New Zealand in November is more settled now, typically offering mild to warm temperatures, with the occasional light rain.

Because national parks are lush, trails are open, and daylight hours are longer, this month is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and road trips — all great highlights to weave into a New Zealand itinerary. It’s also a good time for vineyard tours in regions like Marlborough and Central Otago. Increased marine wildlife activity makes destinations like Kaikōura and the Otago Peninsula a big draw for whale watching, dolphin encounters, and seal spotting.

Visitor numbers are lower and travel expenses are lower than during the busy summer months, and there are plenty of lodging options. Good traveling conditions contribute to making New Zealand in November ideal for those who want to experience the country’s natural magnificence before the high season rush.

Average daily temperatures in November

With the weather in New Zealand in November nicely warming up, daytime highs usually range from 63°F to 70°F (17°C to 21°C), while overnight lows fall between 46°F and 54°F (8°C to 12°C). 

There is a regional variation. In the North Island, for example, Auckland experiences highs around 70°F (21°C) and lows near 55°F (13°C). Whereas spring winds persist in Wellington, making it slightly cooler with highs around 66°F (19°C) and lows of about 50°F (10°C).

In the South Island, Christchurch sees more sunshine and daytime highs around 68°F (20°C), dropping to roughly 48°F (9°C) in the evening. Queenstown averages highs near 64°F (18°C) and cool evenings around 43°F (6°C).

What about the crowd and cost?

With slowly increasing tourist activity but without the high-season stress or cost, late spring is a smart time to visit New Zealand. It’s a great opportunity to explore some of the best places to visit in New Zealand, as the nation's yards, national parks, and wine regions are receiving more visitors in November, but crowds are still manageable.

Throughout November, accommodations begin to fill up, especially in picturesque areas like Marlborough and the Coromandel, but rates are still less than in summer. For popular tours or if you have a specific place to stay in mind, early reservations are recommended. Overall, visiting New Zealand in November provides excellent value, coupled with lovely weather and a welcoming energy.

Things to do in New Zealand in November

In New Zealand in November, the days are longer, the temperatures are rising, and nature is alive with color and sound — a perfect setup for some of the best things to do in New Zealand, from active adventures to breathtaking scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Walk the Queen Charlotte Track

Located in the Marlborough Sounds, the Queen Charlotte Track offers coastal vistas, native bush, and tranquil coves. The full 44-mile (71-km) trail takes several days to walk, but shorter sections are easily accessible by water taxi. The combination of forested hills and sheltered inlets is especially striking in November.

Spot penguins in Oamaru

November marks the breeding season for the little blue penguins of Oamaru. In the evening, you can watch them waddle ashore from the ocean to nest. Local wildlife tours offer daytime encounters with other species, like fur seals and yellow-eyed penguins. The town itself features a Victorian precinct with stone buildings, quirky stores, and steampunk flair.

Kayak the Whanganui River

The Whanganui Journey is accomplished by canoe or kayak. The river meanders through dense native forest, deep gorges, and isolated valleys. November’s moderate flows and mild temperatures make it an ideal time for the true wilderness experience. Along the route, there are campsites and lodges.

Stroll the Wellington waterfront and Botanic Yard

Wellington’s waterfront is great for walking or cycling, with public art, cafés, and harbor views to see along the way. Take the cable car up to the Botanic Yard, which bursts with roses, tulips, and native blooms during November. From there, winding trails lead through lush greenery down to the city. 

Explore the Te Anau glowworm caves

As the Fiordland region gears up for the summer season, November is a great time to explore Te Anau’s glowworm caves. A boat takes you across the lake, followed by a guided walk into the limestone cave system. Inside, you’ll glide beneath thousands of tiny glowworms illuminating the darkness like stars.

Festivals and events in New Zealand in November

The warming weather in New Zealand in November triggers a variety of seasonal events that highlight local communities and outdoor living through music, art, and food.

• Toast Martinborough: This is the country’s most beloved celebration of exquisite wines, with tastings, fine food, and live music amongst the vines.
• NZ Sculpture OnShore: Hosted in Auckland, this biennial outdoor sculpture exhibition, held overlooking the sea, supports women’s charities and features works from national artists.
• Yard Marlborough: Blenheim, located in one of the country’s top wine regions, puts on this elegant spring yard event that includes workshops, guided tours, and plant sales.
• Auckland Diwali Festival: When this festival of Indian culture begins, Auckland's central square comes alive with street food, artisan stalls, fireworks, and traditional dance.