Packing list for Your Aotearoa/New Zealand Tour

The weather in New Zealand can be a bit unpredictable, average weather in February and March are detailed below but this can vary from day to day so it’s best to bring layers and be prepared for sunshine, cool evenings, and the occasional shower. You’ll want clothing and shoes that are comfortable for travel and outdoor exploring. New Zealanders generally have a relaxed, casual attitude toward dressing up for dinner, so think smart-casual rather than formal for the evenings.

Shorts/skirts and t-shirts will usually be sufficient for daytime activities but it's worth bringing one lightweight warm jacket, ideally one that rolls up small, in case of unexpected cold snaps.

There will be washing machines and dryers available at many of our hotels so you will be able to wash and dry clothes while on tour.

Weather in February

February is summer in New Zealand, and you can expect mostly warm weather - around 23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F) in the North Island. The South Island is usually a little cooler, around 22°C (72°F), though it can get chilly in the evenings or early mornings. It’s best to bring layers and be prepared for sunshine, cool evenings, and the occasional shower. You’ll want clothing and shoes that are comfortable for travel and outdoor exploring. New Zealanders generally have a relaxed, casual attitude toward dressing up for dinner, so think smart-casual rather than formal for the evenings.

Weather in March

March is autumn (fall) in New Zealand, and you can expect slightly cooler weather — around 22°C (72°F) in the North Island. The South Island is usually a little cooler, around 20°C (68°F), though it can get quite chilly in the evenings or early mornings.

Suggested packing list for your New Zealand tour:

Clothing

• Lightweight summer outfits (tops, shorts, skirts, dresses, trousers)

• Layers for cooler evenings (jumper, cardigan, or fleece)

• Comfortable walking clothes (quick-dry, breathable fabrics are ideal)

• Underwear

• Warm, lightweight jacket

• Rain jacket

• Swimwear

• Hat

  
  

Footwear

• Comfortable walking shoes, suitable for uneven terrain. Serious hiking boots are not necessary for any of our scheduled walks.

• Socks if needed

• Casual shoes or sandals for everyday wear

  
  

Accessories & Essentials

• Small daypack for outings and hikes

• We will provide you with a reusable drink bottle

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Insect repellent

• Light scarf or wrap (for sun or an extra layer)

• Glasses/contact lenses (if needed)

• Lightweight, quick-dry travel towel (in case of swims)

• Hiking poles if needed (optional)

  
  

Toiletries & Health

• Personal toiletries (our hotels provide shampoo, conditioner and body wash)

• Any prescription medications (including a copy of your prescription)

• Basic first-aid items (band-aids, blister pads, personal pain relief)

• Travel-sized hand sanitiser

  
  

Travel

• Passport and travel documents (including proof of travel insurance)

• Camera

• Smartphone with charger

• Computer with charger

• Power adapters – New Zealand and Australia use Type I plugs, 230V

  
  

Optional Extras

• Binoculars

• Reusable shopping bag for markets and shops

• A compact umbrella

• Reusable coffee cup

  
  

And don’t worry if you forget anything, New Zealand has plenty of shops where you can pick up essentials along the way.