You’re onto a good thing with the weather in November. With the days getting warmer as this final month of spring approaches summer, the weather is generally good during November in New Zealand. What’s more, it’s the final month of the shoulder season in New Zealand before the summer tourist crowds hit so make the most of visiting those more popular destinations like Milford Sound during this time.In this quick and simple guide to travelling New Zealand in November, we’ll go over the typical weather in November, the November events, what activities to do in November, and typical prices. Additionally, we’ll also give you some November travel tips!For more advice on when to travel in New Zealand.

Bay of Island

The forested slopes, secret white-sand coves, and glittering expanse of blue sea have made New Zealand’s Bay of Islands region a yachting haven and a top spot for anyone looking for a slice of seaside bliss. This is a place to kick back for a few days and just enjoy the scenery. Hop on a sightseeing boat tour from Paihia or Russell to soak up the sun and fully experience the undulating coastline and islands offshore.

Once travel batteries are recharged, hit a few of this region’s historic sights. The tiny towns of the Bay of Islands may feel like sleepy idylls today, but they were at the very heart of the beginning of New Zealand’s colonial era. Learn about the early days of the British colony, with its whaling stations and missionaries in Kerikeri and Russell, and then head to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds near Paihia where New Zealand’s modern history officially began.

For more things to do, be sure to check out our full list below of the top tourist attractions in the Bay of Islands.

ATTRACTION

• Bay of Islands Maritime Park
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Russell
• Pompallier Mission
• Paihia
• Giant Kauri Trees of the Waipoua Forest
• Glow Worms of the Kawiti Caves
• Cape Reinga at the Northern Tip of New Zealand
• Tall Ship R. Tucker Thompson
• Ninety Mile Beach

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Arguably the most scenic destination in New Zealand, Milford Sound is a fiord in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It is home to fur seal colonies, penguins and dolphins and offers a sweeping landscape of jagged snow-capped mountains, shimmering fjords and lakes, and emerald greenery. It is famously known for its towering Mitre Peak, and waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen falls, which plummet down its sheer sides.

Milford Sound Tourism is funded by the Milford Sound Passenger Levy. This is collected by Milford Sound Tourism and provides for visitor amenities and infrastructure, such as the port and harbour in Milford Sound and toilets along the Milford Road. Over 40% of the levy goes to the Department of Conservation for the upkeep of visitor attractions in Fiordland National Park, and for Predator control in milford.  

 The levy is paid by all visitors over the age of 14 years using the port at Milford,
and it is usually collected as part of a boat cruise ticket.

ATTRACTION

• There are no shops or petrol stations between Te Anau and Milford Sound. Ensure you have ample food and drinks and your petrol tank is full.
• The Milford Road has limited cellphone coverage.
• We recommend using the restrooms in Te Anau before embarking on the long drive to Milford Sound. After Te Anau, there are public toilets on the Milford Road at Knobs Flat and The Divide.
• Be prepared for the weather to change drastically within a short period of time, even in summer, and dress appropriately.
• Carry snow chains in the winter months and ensure you know how to fit them to your vehicle.
• Always drive to the conditions, follow all road signs and stay well informed by regularly checking the NZTA road status page.

Auckland

Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanting holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, New Zealand, our largest and most diverse city.

More than just a city, Auckland is a whole region full of things to see and do. Best of all, with so many experiences close by it’s easy to hop from one adventure to the next.  

A stunning natural playground

Auckland’s diverse landscapes provide countless opportunities to get immersed in nature. In the west, lush native rainforest plunges down the hills to meet the sea on Dramatic Balck sand beaches, while the east’s sheltered golden sand beaches are fringed with red-flowering pohutukawa trees. To the north the rolling hills of wine country meet stunning coastlines and in the south you’ll find picturesque country gardens, unspoilt forest and tranquil bays to explore.

Volcanoes 

New Zealand’s Auckland region is dotted with 48 volcanic cones, which provide spectacular panoramic views of the city and harbour. Many are surrounded by lush parkland, making them perfect picnic spots. Rangitoto Island, just a 25-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, is the region’s most iconic volcano and a favourite day trip destination for visitors, hikers and bird watchers.

Hauraki Gulf and Islands

Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park encompasses an incredible 1.2 million hectares of coast, sea and islands – and there are so many ways to explore it.  

The jewel of the Hauraki Gulf is Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves, farm land and golden beaches – and only a 35-minute ferry ride away from downtown Auckland. Sip on award-winning wines at some of the 30 boutique vineyards and wineries, enjoy fine dining and pick up superb local artwork.

Make sure you get out on the water while you’re here, whether it’s a relaxing harbour cruise, a fishing charter, whale and dolphin spotting, diving, Kayaking or surfing.

Shopping and dining in Auckland

Auckland is a shopaholic’s paradise, with everything from top-end designers to open air street markets. Discover the diverse range of cafes and restaurants offering cuisine from around the globe and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart precinct and City Works Depot.

Once you’ve seen the city, head out to one of Auckland’s beautiful wine regions where you can sample local wines against the backdrop of vine-covered hills and sparkling ocean.

Waiheke Island, New Zealand

With pristine beaches, world class wines, and fantastic cuisine, it’s easy to see why Waiheke Island is considered the jewel in the Hauraki Gulf’s crown. Although only 35 minutes from Auckland, you’ll feel like you’re a world away as your browse through art galleries, sample award-winning olive oils and soak in stunning sea views.

With so much to do, there’s truly something for everyone on Waiheke Island and we’re very proud to have been voted one of the world’s Top 20 islands by Conde Nast Traveller in 2016, and included on Lonely Planet’s list of top 10 travel regions in 2015.

With regular ferry sailings, Waiheke is the perfect place to escape to for the day, or even just the afternoon. Once here though, it’s hard to leave, and our many beautiful accommodation venues offer the perfect solution.

On the following pages you will find information on many businesses that call Waiheke home.  Those marked with our “W” stamp are members of Waiheke Island Tourism (WIT), a non-profit business organisation striving to maintain our island’s unique character while ensuring you, our wonderful visitors, enjoy a truly memorable Waiheke experience.   

So whether you’re wanting to walk around the stunning coastal headlands, tour your way through our many vineyards or simply relax and do nothing at all, we truly hope you enjoy your time on our magical island.