Hello Spring

Winter’s gone and summer is on the horizon, so it’s time to get some spring in your step. As the weather warms up and the days start to  linger into evening, many feel that annual itch to get out and explore.

Spring is a beautiful time in Aotearoa, when late season snow leads to powdery bluebird days on the slopes, while at the same time the beach  calls.

Spring is our ‘waterfall season’ – the country’s falls multiply with magnificent effect. It’s the most impressive time of year to take a tour to  Milford Sound via the Milford Road.

The fruit-growing areas of South Island’s Central Otago are bedecked with blossom. Alexandra’s annual Blossom Festival is held each year  when the town’s cherry trees are in full bloom.

Spring provides clear, settled days for those wanting to explore the outdoors. Crisp spring weather and less crowds make it a good time to  explore some of New Zealand’s walking tracks.

Farmers’ markets are a morning highlight in many regions, and many vineyards celebrate the release of the new seasons wine. Marlborough  – New Zealand’s most famous wine region is known for its Sauvignon Blanc. With over 30 cellar doors, from the iconic labels to the boutique. Join a guided cycle tour or hire a bike (or e-bike) and take a map – either way, the slower pace in the spring sunshine will create a  brilliant experience.

Spring is also considered one of the best times for New Zealand fishing. This is a good season for trout fishing and the central North Island’s  Lake Tongariro attracts many international anglers. Lake Rotorua, also in the area, is one of the country’s top trout fishing destinations, and  one of the best brown trout fisheries in the world. There are also many thermal pools to enjoy, and fantastic health spas for a relaxing break  from everyday life. A visit to Rotorua is a must for its geothermal wonders and rich Māori culture. Indulge your skin at the world’s biggest  mud volcano at Hell’s Gate or soak yourself in a sulphur spa before washing off in a spring-fed waterfall. Visit Wellington, our capital city  which has some beautiful pockets of native bush and wildlife within it, no more so than at Zealandia. This Karori wildlife sanctuary has many kilometres of trails to explore, either independently or guided. A free shuttle travels between Zealandia and the city, or the top of the historic  Wellington Cable Car.

Nelson Tasman offers the best of both worlds. Experience Abel Tasman National Park with its sweeping granite coastlines and tranquil lagoons that are just begging to be explored, either on foot or by boat or sea kayak. Or bike some of the 174km Tasman Great Taste Trail where scenery melds perfectly with great local food, wine, craft beer and cider.

Few, if any, regions of New Zealand rival the West Coast for natural beauty. From the breathtaking limestone formations and subtropical nikau bush to the north to the glaciers and towering mountains and ancient forests of the south, any journey along this stretch of coast will  leave you wanting more.

Further adventure can be found on New Zealand’s ski fields. Spring skiing in New Zealand offers more opportunities for sunny, clear days on  the slopes. The ski season continues through until October, giving thrill seekers an extended chance to experience uncrowded fields and the  opportunity for off-piste skiing, snowboarding and heli-skiing.

You will find the best of sport and culture, fine food and wine, a million daffodils, kiwi chicks and sweet, snow-white herons/kōtuku in their  wedding best. You can also go whale watching, as New Zealand has a resident population of sperm whales and the rare Hector’s Dolphin  frequents the waters surrounding both islands.

Whatever you choose to take part in during your time in this slice of paradise, you are sure to enjoy yourself in New Zealand this spring!