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Wake up for Winter in New Zealand!
New Zealand goes into overdrive rather than hibernation during winter. Crisp blue skies, steaming geothermal pools and a vibrant après-ski atmosphere bring the country alive.
The months from June to August herald the ski season in both the North and South Islands where world class ski fields can be found amidst spectacular scenery. But there’s just as much excitement can be found off the slopes.
Rotorua (Central North Island) is steaming with relaxing, hot mineral pools, Queenstown (South Island) is alive with winter festivals, and the country’s major cities - Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch - make for great weekend breaks to shop for designer brands and dine at world-class restaurants.
In the North Island, Mount Ruapehu is home to the country’s largest ski fields. Mount Ruapehu dominates the skyline of Tongariro National Park, a dual World Heritage Site for its natural beauty and cultural significance.
The South Island has over seven public ski areas and numerous other private fields. Coronet Peak in Queenstown is the most popular field and Mt Hutt in the Canterbury region has one of the longest and most consistent seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. The highlight of the ski season would have to be the Lindauer Queenstown Winter Festival, a major event on any snow enthusiast’s calendar.
June is the month to welcome in Matariki, the Maori New Year, with multiple cultural celebrations throughout the country. Then comes the start of the scallop season in August and the Coromandel Scallop Festival is the best way to celebrate and indulge in this tasty delicacy
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